Apple Crumble Cheesecake

by
Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Apple Crumble Cheesecake combines the rich, creamy texture of a classic cheesecake with the sweet, spiced flavor of apples and the delightful crunch of a crumble topping. This dessert is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to festive celebrations. With a luscious layer of cream cheese filling, topped with cinnamon-spiced apples and a buttery shortcrust crumble, this cheesecake is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the history and preparation of this irresistible treat.

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Serves: 8 people

Nutritional Information:

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 30g

For the Apples:

  • 3 apples
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon

For the Pastry:

  • 2/3 cup flour
  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup butter (about 4 tablespoons)

For the Cheesecake:

  • 2 cups speculaas (gingerbread cookies), crushed
  • 1/3 cup butter (about 5 tablespoons)
  • 2 cups natural cream cheese (about 17.6 ounces)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 eggs
  • 1.5 teaspoons cinnamon

Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F). This temperature ensures a gentle bake, allowing the cheesecake to cook evenly without cracking.

Step 2: Prepare the Speculaas Base

  1. Grind the Gingerbread Cookies: Use a food processor to finely grind 250 grams of speculaas cookies. The cookies should be ground to a sandy texture to form a solid base for your cheesecake.
  2. Melt the Butter: Melt 75 grams of butter in the microwave or on the stove. Once melted, mix the butter thoroughly with the ground cookies until the mixture resembles wet sand.
  3. Prepare the Springform Pan: Grease a springform pan with a little butter to prevent sticking. Pour the cookie mixture into the pan and press it firmly into an even layer using the back of a spoon.

Step 3: Prepare the Apple Filling

  1. Peel and Dice the Apples: Peel 3 apples, core them, and cut them into small cubes. The small pieces ensure even cooking and a uniform texture.
  2. Mix with Cinnamon: In a bowl, sprinkle the apple cubes with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and a bit of sugar if desired. Mix well to coat all the apple pieces evenly.

Step 4: Make the Shortcrust Pastry

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine 75 grams of flour, 75 grams of sugar, and 60 grams of butter.
  2. Form Crumbs: Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, knead the mixture until large crumbs form. This crumbly dough will create a delightful, crunchy topping for your cheesecake.

Step 5: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

  1. Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add 500 grams of natural cream cheese, 125 grams of sour cream, 75 grams of sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1.5 teaspoons of cinnamon, and 3 eggs.
  2. Blend Until Smooth: Use a mixer or food processor to blend the ingredients until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. Ensure there are no lumps for the best texture.

Step 6: Assemble the Cheesecake

  1. Pour the Filling: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cookie base in the springform pan. Spread it out evenly.
  2. Add the Apples: Evenly distribute the cinnamon-spiced apple cubes over the cream cheese layer.
  3. Top with Crumbs: Sprinkle the prepared shortcrust pastry crumbs over the apples, ensuring an even layer to create a crunchy top.

Step 7: Bake the Cheesecake

  1. Bake: Place the cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for 60 minutes. The cheesecake should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
  2. Cool Gradually: Once baked, turn off the oven and leave the oven door ajar. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven gradually. This prevents cracks from forming on the surface.

Step 8: Chill and Serve

  1. Chill: After cooling in the oven, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the cheesecake to set properly.
  2. Serve: Remove the cheesecake from the springform pan, slice, and serve chilled. Enjoy the creamy, crunchy, and spiced flavors of this delightful dessert.

Conclusion

Apple Crumble Cheesecake is a delightful fusion of traditional cheesecake and classic apple crumble, bringing together creamy, sweet, and spiced elements in every bite. Perfect for any gathering, this dessert is sure to impress with its rich flavors and satisfying textures.

Print Recipe🖨 PDF RECIPE 📄