Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Imagine sinking your fork into a dessert that’s both creamy and crunchy, sweet and lightly spiced, with layers of buttery Biscoff, tender apples, and rich cheesecake all in one bite. That’s exactly what the Apple Crumble Cheesecake delivers. It’s a showstopper for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special event, or simply treating yourself to a decadent slice of heaven. Each layer is carefully crafted to complement the next, creating a symphony of textures and flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Trust me, this is one dessert you’ll want to make again and again.

Recipe Origin

Cheesecake has been delighting taste buds for centuries, originating in ancient Greece, but this version takes it to a modern, cozy level. By combining the classic American cheesecake with an apple crumble topping and a Biscoff cookie crust, we create a dessert that’s both familiar and luxuriously unique. It’s the perfect fall-inspired treat, but honestly, it tastes amazing any time of year.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• A springform pan for easy cheesecake removal
• A food processor or rolling pin for crushing cookies
• Mixing bowls for preparing crust, filling, and topping
• A hand mixer or stand mixer for smooth, creamy cheesecake
• A skillet or saucepan for gently cooking apples
• A spatula for folding and layering ingredients
• Parchment paper for lining the pan and preventing sticking

Why You’ll Love Apple Crumble Cheesecake

This dessert isn’t just delicious—it’s versatile, impressive, and perfect for sharing. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Layered Delight: Every bite has a little bit of crust, creamy cheesecake, tender apple, and crunchy crumble, creating a perfect balance of textures.
Crowd-Pleasing: It’s sophisticated enough for dinner parties but comforting enough for family gatherings.
Customizable: Adjust the spice, swap apples for pears, or add caramel drizzle—this cheesecake adapts to your taste.
Seasonal and Festive: With cinnamon, nutmeg, and apples, it feels like autumn in every bite, making it perfect for holidays or cozy evenings.
Impressively Elegant: Despite its decadent look and layers, the steps are achievable, so even novice bakers can wow their guests.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free cheesecake.
• Avoid Overmixing: Overmixing can incorporate too much air and lead to cracks. Mix until just combined.
• Use Parchment Paper: Line the pan for easy removal and cleaner edges.
• Pre-Cook Apples Lightly: Softening apples before baking prevents excess moisture from making the cheesecake soggy.
• Cool Gradually: Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for a bit with the door cracked to avoid cracking.

Ingredients in Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Here’s the breakdown of each layer and what makes it special:
Biscoff Crust: Crunchy, buttery, and spiced with caramelized cookie flavor that forms the perfect base.
Crumble Topping: Buttery and slightly sweet, with oats for texture and brown sugar for caramelized richness.
Apple Topping: Tart apples are coated with cinnamon and brown sugar, softening into tender slices with a hint of spice and a touch of cornstarch to thicken natural juices.
Cheesecake Filling: Creamy cream cheese mixed with sugar, Greek yogurt, vanilla, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and eggs forms a rich, silky filling that’s lightly spiced to complement the apples.

Instructions

Prepare the Biscoff Crust: Crush Lotus Biscoff cookies in a food processor until fine crumbs form. Mix with melted butter, press into the bottom of a springform pan, and chill for 10–15 minutes.
Make the Crumble Topping: In a bowl, combine melted butter, flour, brown sugar, and rolled oats. Stir until crumbly and set aside.
Cook the Apple Topping: Peel, core, and slice apples into thin slices. Toss with brown sugar, cinnamon, and cornstarch. Lightly cook in a skillet until slightly softened, then remove from heat.
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, Greek yogurt, vanilla, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg, mixing until combined. Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition.
Assemble the Cheesecake: Pour cheesecake filling over the chilled Biscoff crust. Layer apple topping evenly over the filling. Sprinkle crumble mixture over apples.
Bake the Cheesecake: Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Bake for 50–60 minutes or until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for 15 minutes to prevent cracking.
Cool Completely: Remove cheesecake from oven, cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
Serve and Enjoy: Slice carefully with a hot, dry knife. Enjoy the combination of crunchy crust, creamy cheesecake, tender apples, and buttery crumble in every bite.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12
Calories per serving: ~450
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 50–60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes + chilling

How to Serve Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Fresh Whipped Cream: Adds lightness and complements the spiced layers.
Caramel Drizzle: Extra indulgence and pairs beautifully with the Biscoff and apple flavors.
Warm Beverage: Hot coffee, chai, or spiced tea enhances the cozy spices in the cheesecake.
Fruit Garnish: Thin apple slices or berries add visual appeal and freshness.
As a Centerpiece: This dessert is visually stunning on a cake stand or platter, perfect for entertaining.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Cheesecake improves in flavor if made a day ahead; chill overnight for best slicing and layered flavor.
• Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freeze slices individually in parchment paper and airtight containers for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before serving.

Variations to Try

• Pear Crumble Cheesecake: Swap apples for pears for a sweeter, softer fruit layer.
• Caramel Apple Cheesecake: Drizzle caramel over the crumble for a richer dessert.
• Nutty Crumble: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumble topping.
• Spice Variation: Adjust cinnamon, nutmeg, or add cardamom for a different spice profile.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cookies for the crust and GF flour for the crumble.

Additional Tips

Beat Cream Cheese Properly: Overbeating can make the cheesecake airy; mix until smooth but not fluffy.
Layer Carefully: Spread apples evenly to prevent clumping and uneven baking.
Chill Fully: Cheesecake sets best after sufficient refrigeration, giving clean slices.
Use Fresh Apples: Tart, firm apples hold shape and contrast nicely with creamy cheesecake.
Double the Crumble: For an extra crunchy top, increase crumble mixture slightly.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use pre-made apple pie filling instead of fresh apples?
A1: Yes, but drain excess syrup to avoid a soggy cheesecake.
Q2: Can I bake this in a water bath?
A2: Absolutely—wrap the pan in foil and bake in a water bath to prevent cracking.
Q3: Can I make this dairy-free?
A3: Substitute cream cheese and Greek yogurt with dairy-free alternatives.
Q4: Can I use other spices?
A4: Yes! Cardamom, allspice, or cloves add a unique flavor twist.
Q5: Can I prepare individual mini cheesecakes?
A5: Yes, use a muffin tin or small springform pans and adjust baking time to 25–30 minutes.
Q6: How do I prevent the cheesecake from cracking?
A6: Avoid overmixing, bake at a low temperature, and allow gradual cooling in the oven.
Q7: Can I make it ahead of time?
A7: Yes, making it a day ahead enhances flavor and makes slicing cleaner.
Q8: Can I freeze the whole cheesecake?
A8: Yes, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil; thaw in the fridge before serving.
Q9: What type of apples work best?
A9: Tart, firm varieties like Granny Smith hold shape and balance sweetness.
Q10: Can I add nuts to the cheesecake layer?
A10: Yes, finely chopped toasted nuts can be folded into the cheesecake for extra texture.

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Conclusion

The Apple Crumble Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves layered flavors and textures. From the buttery Biscoff crust to the creamy, spiced cheesecake and tender apples topped with a crunchy crumble, every bite is a delight. Perfect for holidays, special occasions, or any day you want to indulge, this cheesecake is guaranteed to impress. Slice, serve, and enjoy the cozy, sweet, and creamy flavors in every bite—you won’t be able to stop at just one piece.

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Watch how to make this decadent dessert with a biscoff crust