If autumn had an official dessert, Apple Crisp Cheesecake would be wearing the crown. It combines everything we love about fall baking into one unforgettable slice: warm spiced apples, buttery oat crumble, and a rich, ultra-creamy cheesecake base. This dessert brings together two classics—apple crisp and traditional cheesecake—and transforms them into a show-stopping centerpiece perfect for holidays, cozy weekends, and special gatherings.

Unlike overly sweet or heavy cheesecakes, this version balances tangy cream cheese with tender cinnamon apples and a lightly crisp topping that adds texture to every bite. Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving, planning a fall dinner party, or simply craving a bakery-style dessert at home, this apple crisp cheesecake recipe delivers comfort, elegance, and serious flavor.

Why Apple Crisp Cheesecake Works So Well

The magic of this dessert lies in contrast. You get:

A buttery graham cracker crust that holds everything together
A silky cheesecake filling that’s rich without being dense
A spiced apple layer that adds moisture and natural sweetness
A golden oat crumble topping for crunch and warmth

Each layer complements the next, creating a dessert that tastes complex but feels familiar. It’s nostalgic, yet elevated—perfect for fall baking season.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Graham Cracker Crust

Graham cracker crumbs
Granulated sugar
Unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling

Cream cheese, softened
Granulated sugar
Sour cream
Eggs
Vanilla extract

For the Apple Layer

Fresh apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best)
Brown sugar
Cinnamon
Nutmeg
Lemon juice
Cornstarch

For the Crisp Topping

Old-fashioned rolled oats
All-purpose flour
Brown sugar
Cinnamon
Unsalted butter, cold and cubed

How to Make Apple Crisp Cheesecake (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by mixing graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the texture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan, creating an even layer. Bake briefly to set the crust, then allow it to cool while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

Beat the softened cream cheese until completely smooth. Add sugar and continue mixing until fluffy. Blend in sour cream and vanilla, then add eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated. Overmixing can introduce air, which may cause cracks later.

Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top.

Step 3: Prepare the Apple Layer

Peel and thinly slice the apples, then toss them with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and cornstarch. This mixture ensures the apples soften beautifully while thickening slightly during baking.

Spoon the apples evenly over the cheesecake layer.

Step 4: Make the Crisp Topping

In a bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture forms pea-sized crumbs. Sprinkle the topping generously over the apples.

Step 5: Bake the Cheesecake

Bake until the center is just set and slightly jiggly. The crumble topping should be golden brown, and the apples tender. Turn off the oven and allow the cheesecake to cool gradually inside with the door slightly open.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This step is essential for clean slices and the best texture.

Pro Tips for the Best Apple Cheesecake

Use room-temperature ingredients for a smoother filling
Choose tart apples to balance the sweetness
Bake low and slow to prevent cracks
Cool gradually to maintain structure

Variations to Try

Caramel Apple Crisp Cheesecake: Drizzle caramel sauce over the apple layer before adding the crumble
Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free graham crackers and oats
Mini Cheesecakes: Bake in muffin tins for individual servings

Serving Suggestions

Serve slices plain, or elevate them with:

A scoop of vanilla ice cream
Fresh whipped cream
Warm caramel drizzle
Extra cinnamon dusting

This cheesecake pairs beautifully with coffee, chai tea, or spiced apple cider.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

Apple Crisp Cheesecake can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator. Leftovers keep well for up to 5 days. It also freezes beautifully—wrap individual slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

A Little Fall Dessert History

Apple desserts have long been a staple in American baking, especially during autumn harvest season. Cheesecake, with roots in ancient Greece, found its creamy modern form in the U.S. during the 20th century. This dessert brings those traditions together, blending rustic orchard flavors with classic bakery elegance.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels cozy, impressive, and indulgent all at once, Apple Crisp Cheesecake is the answer. It’s the kind of recipe people ask for after one bite—the ultimate fall cheesecake you’ll come back to every year.