As a passionate baker and dessert connoisseur, I’ve spent countless hours perfecting these Apple Oatmeal Cheesecake with Dulce de Leche. This indulgent treat combines the comforting flavors of apple and oatmeal with the creamy richness of cheesecake, all topped with a luscious layer of dulce de leche. Join me on this culinary journey as we create a dessert that’s sure to become the talk of any gathering and a cherished recipe in your baking repertoire.
The Evolution of Cheesecake
Cheesecake has a rich history dating back to ancient Greece, where it was served to athletes during the first Olympic games in 776 BC. Over centuries, this versatile dessert has evolved, with countless variations emerging across cultures. Our Apple Oatmeal Cheesecake with Dulce de Leche represent a modern fusion, incorporating elements of traditional apple pie, hearty oatmeal cookies, and the caramel notes of dulce de leche for a truly unique flavor profile.
Ingredients
For these irresistible Apple Oatmeal Cheesecake with Dulce de Leche, you’ll need:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups (135g) quick oats
- 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
- 1/2 cup (113g) melted butter
For the Filling:
- 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp (5ml) vanilla extract
- 2 cups (250g) diced apples
- 1 tsp (2g) ground cinnamon
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup (150g) dulce de leche
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
I begin by preheating my oven to 350°F (175°C). This moderate temperature ensures that our cheesecake bake evenly, allowing the crust to become golden and crisp while the filling sets perfectly.
2. Prepare the Crust
In a large mixing bowl, I combine the quick oats, flour, and brown sugar. I then pour in the melted butter and mix until the ingredients are well combined and resemble coarse crumbs. This oatmeal crust will provide a delightful texture contrast to the creamy cheesecake filling.
I line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later. Then, I press the oat mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan, creating an even layer.
3. Pre-bake the Crust
I slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake the crust for 10 minutes. This pre-baking step ensures that the crust becomes slightly crisp, preventing it from becoming soggy once the filling is added.
4. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
While the crust is baking, I move on to the luscious cheesecake filling. In a large bowl, I beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Then, I add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Finally, I mix in the vanilla extract, ensuring all ingredients are well combined.
5. Add the Apples
In a separate bowl, I toss the diced apples with ground cinnamon. This step ensures that the cinnamon is evenly distributed throughout the filling. I then gently fold the cinnamon-coated apples into the cheesecake mixture, being careful not to overmix.
6. Assemble and Bake
Once the crust has pre-baked and cooled slightly, I pour the apple-studded cheesecake filling over it, spreading it evenly to the edges. The pan goes back into the oven for 25-30 minutes. I know it’s done when the edges are lightly golden and the center is just set with a slight jiggle.
7. Cool and Top with Dulce de Leche
After baking, I remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, I refrigerate it for at least 2 hours or overnight to ensure they’re fully set.
Just before serving, I warm the dulce de leche slightly to make it easier to spread. Then, I drizzle it generously over the top of the cooled cheesecake, using an offset spatula to create an even layer of this caramel goodness.
8. Slice and Serve
Using the parchment paper overhang, I carefully lift the entire dessert out of the pan and onto a cutting board. With a sharp knife, I cut it into bars, wiping the knife clean between cuts for neat edges.
Nutrition Information
These Apple Oatmeal Cheesecake with Dulce de Leche are a decadent treat. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional value per bar (based on 16 servings):
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 23g
- Protein: 5g
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours (including cooling and chilling time)
The Nutritional Benefits
While these Cheesecake are undoubtedly an indulgence, they do offer some nutritional benefits. Apples provide dietary fiber and antioxidants, particularly quercetin, which has anti-inflammatory properties. Oats contribute additional fiber, particularly beta-glucan, known for its cholesterol-lowering effects. The cream cheese offers a good source of calcium and protein.
Serving Suggestions
These Apple Oatmeal Cheesecake with Dulce de Leche are delightful on their own, but here are some ways to elevate them further:
- Serve chilled with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a light, airy contrast.
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent à la mode experience.
- Accompany with a hot cup of coffee or spiced chai tea for a perfect afternoon treat.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of toasted pecans or walnuts for added crunch and nutty flavor.
Storage Tips
To keep your Apple Oatmeal Cheesecake fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the Cheesecake (without the dulce de leche topping) for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and add the dulce de leche topping just before serving.
Conclusion
Creating these Apple Oatmeal Cheesecake with Dulce de Leche is more than just baking; it’s an expression of culinary creativity that brings together beloved flavors in a unique and irresistible way. The combination of the crunchy oatmeal crust, creamy apple-studded cheesecake, and the sweet caramel notes of dulce de leche creates a symphony of flavors and textures that’s sure to impress.
This recipe is perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pastry chefs. Its straightforward preparation belies its complex flavor profile and impressive presentation, making it an ideal dessert for family gatherings, potlucks, or any occasion that calls for something special.
As you slice into these Cheesecake, revealing layers of golden crust, creamy cheesecake dotted with tender apples, and that glistening dulce de leche topping, you’ll understand why this dessert is worth every moment spent in the kitchen. The aroma alone is enough to draw everyone to the table, eager for a taste.
So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and embark on this delightful baking adventure. Whether you’re celebrating the arrival of apple season, looking for a unique dessert to impress guests, or simply craving a comforting sweet treat, these Apple Oatmeal Cheesecake with Dulce de Leche are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. Happy baking, and even happier indulging!
