If you love the cozy warmth of apple pie and the creamy decadence of cheesecake, get ready to fall head over heels with this Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe. It’s a heavenly combination that brings together tender spiced apples nestled on a buttery graham cracker crust, all enveloped in a smooth, luscious cheesecake layer. Every bite delivers a perfect balance of sweet, tart, and spice that’s sure to wow your friends and family. Trust me, this dessert feels like a comforting hug and makes any occasion extra special.

The image shows a round apple cheesecake on a white marbled surface, with a slice removed to reveal its layers. The bottom layer is a light brown crust, firm and crumbly. Above that is a thick, creamy white cheesecake layer with a smooth, dense texture. On top of the cheesecake is a chunky golden-brown apple filling with soft apple pieces mixed in a glossy sauce. The top layer is a generous amount of small, chopped nuts covering the apple layer, adding a crunchy texture. In the background, there are several whole red and yellow apples slightly out of focus. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients is the secret to nailing the taste and texture of this Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe. From the aromatic spices to the creamy cheese, each item plays an essential role in crafting this unforgettable dessert.

1½ cups graham cracker crumbs: Provides a crunchy, buttery base with just the right sweetness.

¼ cup brown sugar: Adds a deep caramel flavor to the crust and apple filling.
5 Tbsp butter (melted): Binds the crust ingredients and enriches the flavor.
2 tsp apple pie spice: Brings warm notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove for that classic fall vibe.

24 oz cream cheese (3 packs, softened): Creates the creamy, tangy foundation of the cheesecake layer.
¾ cup white granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake perfectly without overpowering.
2 eggs: Adds structure and helps everything set beautifully.
2 Tbsp sour cream: Keeps the cheesecake moist and adds a subtle tang.

¾ cup heavy cream: Offers richness and a silky texture.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with its fragrant warmth.
2 Tbsp corn starch: Gives the cheesecake the right thickness and prevents cracking.

1 Tbsp cinnamon: Boosts the spicy apple pie essence.
3 Tbsp butter: Used for cooking the apples to a tender finish.
2.5 lbs gala apples (or other sweet apples): The star ingredient, softening and caramelizing perfectly for the filling.
1 cup brown sugar: Sweetens and caramelizes the apples beautifully.

2 tsp vanilla: Adds a subtle richness to the apple filling.
½ Tbsp apple pie spice: Complements the apples with warm spices.
¼ cup flour: Helps thicken the apple pie filling.
6 oz Toffee crunch pieces: Adds a delightful crunch and extra sweetness at the end.

How to Make Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Pie Filling

Start by peeling, coring, and dicing your apples into bite-size pieces. Melt butter in a medium pot over medium heat and add the apples. Toss them around until they’re coated and fragrant. Then stir in brown sugar, apple pie spice, and vanilla before covering the pot to let the apples soften gently. Once they’re tender and juicy, uncover the pot to reduce the liquid. Sprinkle flour over the apples to thicken the mixture, cook a few additional minutes, and then set it aside to cool or store in the fridge if making ahead.

Step 2: Make the Crust

Preheat your oven to 325°F and prepare a 9-inch springform pan by greasing it well. If you’re worried about leaks during the water bath, wrap the outside of your pan with heavy-duty aluminum foil. Mix graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, melted butter, and apple pie spice thoroughly, then press this mixture firmly into the bottom and halfway up the sides of your pan. This crust shines in both flavor and texture, offering a buttery, spiced base for the creamy layers above.

Step 3: Mix the Cheesecake Batter

Beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar on medium-high speed until silky and smooth—about 2 minutes. Add vanilla extract and sour cream for tang and richness, then incorporate eggs one at a time, ensuring each is blended fully before adding the next. Reduce the speed and mix in corn starch and cinnamon, then gently pour in the heavy cream, mixing until combined. Scrape the bowl sides to keep it all uniform, resulting in a luscious, silky batter ready for baking.

Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake

Pour your cheesecake batter over the beautifully prepared crust and smooth it out evenly. Place the springform pan inside a larger roasting pan, then carefully add hot water to reach halfway up the pan’s sides—this water bath technique helps prevent cracks and ensures a creamy texture. Bake for 70-75 minutes until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly. Turn off the oven, open the door halfway, and let the cheesecake rest for 10 minutes inside before removing it.

Step 5: Cool and Add Apple Topping

Cool the cheesecake on your counter for 20 minutes, then carefully run a greased knife around the edges to loosen it from the pan sides. Let it cool an additional hour. Once it’s no longer warm, generously spoon your prepared apple pie filling over the top, spreading it evenly. Cover the entire cheesecake and refrigerate it for at least four hours, allowing all the flavors to meld into a spectacular dessert.

Step 6: Add the Finishing Touch

Just before serving, sprinkle the toffee crunch pieces across the top. This adds a wonderful crunch and sweet contrast to the soft apples and creamy cheesecake. Remember to add these last; otherwise, they’ll soften and lose their lovely texture.

How to Serve Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe

This is a round cake with three clear layers. The bottom layer is thick, dense, and light brown, with a rough texture. The middle layer is creamy white and smooth, clearly thicker than the top layer. The top layer is a chunky apple mixture in light brown sauce with visible small apple pieces. On top of that is a thick layer of small chopped nuts, evenly covering the entire surface. The cake sits on a white marbled surface with two red apples in soft focus in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Enhance your Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe by adding a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra sweetness. A dollop of freshly whipped cream with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top can make each forkful feel even more indulgent. For a fresh, bright touch, consider adding a few thinly sliced apples arranged artfully.

Side Dishes

This cheesecake pairs wonderfully with light, refreshing sides like a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to complement the spiced apples. For a cozy dessert spread, consider serving alongside warm spiced cider or hot coffee to round out the experience.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to elevate this Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe for a party or special occasion, serve individual slices with a side of warm apple compote or caramel drizzle. You can also layer smaller versions in parfait glasses by alternating cheesecake, apple filling, and crunchy toffee for a visually stunning and mess-free treat that still captures all the essence of the full dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying a slice, wrap the cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 4 days, giving you plenty of time to savor every last bite.

Freezing

This Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap the entire cheesecake or individual slices in plastic wrap then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to indulge again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Reheating

If you prefer a slightly warm dessert, take a slice and gently warm it in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. Avoid overheating to maintain the creamy texture. Alternatively, serve chilled for a classic, refreshing treat.

FAQs

Can I use different types of apples?

Absolutely! While Gala apples are great for sweetness and texture, other sweet apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji will work just as well. Just make sure to avoid very tart varieties like Granny Smith unless you prefer a tangier filling.

Do I have to use a water bath for baking?

While not mandatory, baking the cheesecake in a water bath helps maintain moisture and prevents cracks on the surface, resulting in that perfect silky texture we all love. It’s definitely worth the extra step.

Can I make this dessert gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free graham crackers or crushed gluten-free cookies, and use gluten-free flour in the apple filling. This way, everyone can enjoy the Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe without worry.

How long does it take to chill before serving?

At least four hours of refrigeration is recommended to allow the flavors to meld and the cheesecake to set fully. If you can plan ahead, overnight chilling is ideal for the best texture and taste.

Can I prepare the apple filling ahead of time?

Definitely. The apple pie filling can be made a day or two ahead and stored in the refrigerator. This makes assembly on the day easier and helps deepen the flavors as the spices mingle overnight.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe is truly one of those desserts that feels like a hug from the inside out. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying a quiet moment of indulgence, it brings warmth, nostalgia, and pure joy to every forkful. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how magical the combination of apple pie and cheesecake can be!

Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe