Welcome to your new favorite dessert destination! If you’re a fan of the rich creaminess of cheesecake, the comforting warmth of apple pie, and the delightful crunch of a classic apple crisp, then Apple Crisp Cheesecake Pie is the perfect treat for you. This harmonious blend of textures and flavors makes it an ideal centerpiece for family gatherings, holidays, or any occasion that calls for something special. Let’s dive into how you can create this mouthwatering masterpiece right in your own kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect Combination: Enjoy the velvety smoothness of cheesecake layered with the spiced sweetness of apples and topped with a crunchy oat streusel.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This dessert is sure to impress guests with its unique fusion of beloved classics.
- Versatile: Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or chilled for a firmer texture. It’s adaptable to your personal taste!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
For the Apple Filling:
- 4 cups apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
For the Oat Streusel Topping:
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix Crust Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Form the Crust: Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan. Use the back of a measuring cup to ensure it’s evenly distributed.
- Bake: Place the crust in the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes until set. Remove and let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling
- Beat Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy using an electric mixer.
- Add Sugar and Eggs: Gradually add 1 cup sugar, beating until well combined. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition.
- Flavor the Filling: Mix in vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour until just incorporated.
- Pour Over Crust: Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the cooled crust.
3. Prepare the Apple Layer
- Toss Apples: In a separate bowl, combine sliced apples, ¼ cup sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and 2 tablespoons flour. Toss until apples are well coated.
- Layer Apples: Evenly distribute the apple mixture over the cheesecake layer in the springform pan.
4. Make the Oat Streusel Topping
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix rolled oats, brown sugar, ½ cup flour, cinnamon, and salt.
- Cut in Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the bowl. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Sprinkle Topping: Evenly sprinkle the streusel mixture over the apple layer.
5. Bake the Pie
- Bake: Place the assembled pie in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set and the streusel topping is golden brown.
- Cool: Allow the pie to cool completely on a wire rack. For the best texture, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
- Release from Pan: Carefully run a knife around the edge of the springform pan before releasing the latch.
- Slice: Use a sharp knife to cut clean slices.
- Optional Toppings: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Tips and Variations
- Apple Varieties: Mixing different types of apples can add depth to the flavor. Try combining Granny Smith with Fuji or Honeycrisp.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cloves or allspice to the apple filling for an extra layer of warmth.
- Nutty Twist: Incorporate chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the streusel topping for added crunch.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute graham cracker crumbs and all-purpose flour with gluten-free alternatives to make this dessert gluten-free.
- Make Ahead: This pie can be made a day in advance, making it perfect for hosting and reducing last-minute stress.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply warm individual slices in the microwave or enjoy them cold straight from the fridge.
Final Thoughts
The Apple Crisp Cheesecake Pie is a delightful fusion of creamy cheesecake, spiced apple pie, and crunchy streusel topping. It’s a versatile dessert that brings together familiar favorites in a unique and irresistible way. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this decadent delight!