Apple Crisp Cheesecake

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and cinnamon. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
3. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form a firm, even crust.
4. Bake for 8–10 minutes, until set. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly while you prepare the apple filling.

2. Prepare the Apple Filling:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the sliced apples, lemon juice, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cornstarch, and water.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples soften and the mixture thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and set aside to cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.

3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy (about 3 minutes).
2. Add the vanilla extract and beat until combined.
3. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Stir in the sour cream and heavy cream until smooth and well combined.
5. Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled graham cracker crust in the springform pan.

4. Assemble the Cake:

1. Spoon the apple filling evenly over the cheesecake layer, spreading it out gently with a spatula.
2. Prepare the crisp topping: In a small bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to incorporate the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Sprinkle the crisp topping over the apple filling.

5. Bake the Cheesecake:

1. Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 55–65 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center. The topping should be golden and crisp.
2. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for about 1 hour.
3. After cooling, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow it to fully set.

6. Serve:

1. Once chilled, carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan.
2. Slice and serve. You can drizzle with caramel sauce or whipped cream for extra indulgence if desired.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
• A drizzle of warm caramel sauce will add a nice touch of sweetness to each slice.

Tips for Success:

• For Even Slicing: Use a warm knife to slice the cheesecake for cleaner cuts (dip the knife in hot water, then dry it before slicing).
• Apple Variety: You can use a combination of tart and sweet apples for a balanced flavor. Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are great choices.
• Make-Ahead: This cheesecake can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. It often tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld.

This Apple Crisp Cheesecake is the perfect combination of creamy cheesecake, spiced apple filling, and a crunchy topping. It’s a dessert that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth! 🍏🍰