Can I use a different crust for this apple crumble cheesecake?

Absolutely! While graham cracker is classic, my shortbread-obsessed friends swear by swapping in crushed Walker's cookies. Just use the same 2:1 ratio of crumbs to melted butter. For a nutty twist, try gingersnaps or even vanilla wafers—they’re delicious with the spiced apples.

How do I know when my cheesecake is done baking?

Here’s my foolproof test: Give the pan a gentle shake. If the edges are set but the center jiggles like Jell-O (about a 2-inch circle), it’s perfect. The crumble topping should look golden and crisp. And remember—it keeps cooking as it cools, so pull it at that sweet spot between "too wobbly" and "rock solid."

Can I make this ahead for a party?

Yes! In fact, I always make mine a day early. Bake it, let it cool completely (overnight is ideal), then refrigerate. The flavors meld beautifully, and the texture firms up for cleaner slices. Pro tip: Add the crumble topping right before serving if you want maximum crunch—just store it separately in a baggie.

Do I have to peel the apples for the topping?

Nope! I peel mine (texture preference), but the skins soften during baking. For apple crumble cheesecake bars especially, leaving skins on adds pretty color and fiber. Just dice them small so they cook evenly. Granny Smiths hold their shape best if you’re nervous about mushiness.

Why did my cheesecake crack?

First—don’t panic! The crumble hides most sins. Cracks usually mean overmixing (too much air) or sudden temperature changes. Always cool it gradually: After baking, run a knife around the edge, turn off the oven, and crack the door slightly for 30 minutes. Plus, a water bath helps, though I skip it for this rustic dessert.

40-Minute Heavenly Apple Crumble Cheesecake Recipe

Apple Crumble Cheesecake

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A delicious hybrid dessert combining creamy cheesecake with spiced apple crumble topping.

Author: Sophia Collins
Prep Time: 20 min
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 min
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup melted butter
24 oz cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup sugar
3 eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups diced apples
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 cup flour
1/4 cup cold butter, cubed

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 325°F.
Mix graham crumbs with melted butter and press into a 9-inch springform pan.
Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla.
Pour filling over crust.
Toss apples with cinnamon and brown sugar. Spoon over cheesecake batter.
Combine flour and cold butter for crumble. Sprinkle over apples.
Bake 50-60 minutes until set. Cool completely before serving.

Notes

For meal planning, this dessert pairs well with gluten-free meal delivery entrees.
Find more dessert inspiration on our Pinterest.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 420
Sugar: 32g
Sodium: 320mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 125mg

Find it online: https://kitchenuser.net/apple-crumble-cheesecake-recipe/