Apple Crumble Cheesecake

This Apple Crumble Cheesecake is an indulgent dessert that combines the tangy creaminess of cheesecake, the sweet, spiced flavor of apples, and the irresistible crunch of a buttery crumble topping. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday gathering or a special family dinner.

Ingredients

For the Apples:

  • 3 apples, peeled, cored, and diced
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon

For the Pastry Crumble:

  • 2/3 cup (85 g) flour
  • 1/3 cup (65 g) sugar
  • 1/4 cup butter (about 4 tablespoons or 60 g), softened

For the Cheesecake Base:

  • 2 cups (200 g) speculaas (gingerbread cookies), crushed
  • 1/3 cup butter (about 5 tablespoons or 75 g), melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 2 cups natural cream cheese (about 17.6 oz or 500 g)
  • 1/2 cup (120 g) sour cream
  • 1/3 cup (65 g) sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 eggs
  • 1.5 teaspoons cinnamon

Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  1. Preheat Your Oven
    Set 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 200 grams of speculaas cookies into a sandy texture. This will form a solid base for your cheesecake.
  2. Melt the Butter
    Melt 75 grams of butter in the microwave or on the stove. Mix the melted 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. This ensures even cooking and a uniform texture.
  2. Mix with Cinnamon
    In a bowl, sprinkle the apple cubes with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. If desired, add a bit of sugar to enhance the sweetness. Mix well to coat all the apple pieces evenly.

Step 4: Make the Shortcrust Pastry Crumble

  1. Combine Ingredients
    In a large bowl, combine 2/3 cup (85 g) flour, 1/3 cup (65 g) 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 to ensure a smooth layer.
  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 slightly ajar. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven gradually to prevent 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.

Layers of Flavor

This Apple Crumble Cheesecake is all about layers of flavor and texture. The base offers a firm, spicy foundation from the speculaas cookies, the filling is rich and creamy with a hint of cinnamon, and the topping provides a delightful crunch with each bite. The spiced apples add natural sweetness and moisture, making every mouthful a delectable experience.

Baking Tips

  • Choose the Right Apples
    Opt for firm, sweet-tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji for the best flavor and texture.
  • Don’t Overmix the Batter
    Mix the cheesecake filling just until combined to avoid incorporating too much air, which can cause cracks.
  • Cool Gradually
    Letting the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door ajar prevents rapid temperature changes that could cause cracks.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Apple Crumble Cheesecake on its own, or with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. Pair it with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a perfect finish to any meal.

Nutritional Information

  • Servings: 10
  • Calories: Approx. 350 per serving
  • Protein: 7g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fat: 24g

Enjoy the perfect blend of creamy cheesecake, spiced apples, and a crunchy crumble topping with this irresistible Apple Crumble Cheesecake!

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