Apple Cheesecake: A Delightful Blend of Tart and Sweet

This Apple Cheesecake recipe combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon-spiced apples with the smooth creaminess of cheesecake. The buttery biscuit crust, layered with tender caramelized apples, and topped with a rich cheesecake filling, makes it a dessert that’s both fun to make and even more enjoyable to eat. Whether you serve it plain or with a caramelized walnut topping, this cheesecake is sure to impress at any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

You’ll love this recipe for its balance of textures and flavors. The tartness of the apples, combined with the creamy cheesecake and the buttery biscuit base, creates a dessert that’s both satisfying and comforting. The sweet and cinnamon-spiced apple layer adds a unique twist to the classic cheesecake, making this a standout dessert that’s perfect for apple lovers.

Perfect Occasion:

This cheesecake is perfect for fall, when apples are in season, but it’s also great for any time of the year. It’s ideal for special occasions like holidays, family gatherings, or simply as a weekend treat. Serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream or enjoy it chilled on its own.

Decoration Tips:

To elevate the presentation, you can top the cheesecake with caramelized walnuts or a drizzle of homemade caramel sauce. For a more rustic look, sprinkle some cinnamon powder on top or garnish with thin apple slices.

Ingredients:

For the Apple Filling:

• 3 medium apples (thinly sliced)
• 3 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 45g butter
• 1 tsp vanilla sugar (or extract)
• 1 tsp cornstarch
• 1 tsp water

For the Crust:

• 2 packets of digestive biscuits (200g)
• 90g butter (melted)

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 600g cream cheese (at room temperature)
• 150g sugar (just under 1 cup)
• 200ml heavy cream (at room temperature)
• 2 tbsp flour (20g)
• 3 eggs (at room temperature)
• 1 packet vanilla sugar (or 1 tsp vanilla extract)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Apple Filling:
   • In a pan, combine the sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, butter, and vanilla sugar.
   • Cover and cook over medium heat until the apples are soft.
   • If the mixture is not thick enough, mix the cornstarch and water, and add it to the apple mixture. Cook until it thickens to a syrupy consistency. Set aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Crust:
   • Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F).
   • Line the bottom of a 21cm springform pan with parchment paper. Wrap the outside of the pan with aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in during baking.
   • Crush the biscuits in a food processor until fine. Mix in the melted butter and press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of the springform pan. Use the back of a spoon to smooth it out evenly.
   • Place the crust in the fridge to chill while you prepare the filling.
3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
   • In a large bowl, mix the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth.
   • Add the cream and mix until fully combined.
   • Stir in the flour and vanilla sugar, then add the eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition.
4. Assemble and Bake:
   • Pour half of the cheesecake filling onto the prepared crust.
   • Evenly spread the cooled apple filling on top. (If you prefer, you can add the apple layer on top of the cheesecake instead of in the middle.)
   • Pour the remaining cheesecake mixture over the apples.
   • Place the springform pan in a larger baking dish and pour hot water into the larger dish, so it comes halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 70-80 minutes. After an hour, check the cheesecake by shaking it slightly. The edges should be set, but the center should still have a slight wobble.
   • Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for 10 minutes with the door slightly ajar, then let it cool to room temperature.
5. Optional Topping:
   • You can top the cheesecake with caramelized walnuts or a simple crumble before baking. To caramelize the walnuts, simply mix walnuts with caramel and spread them over the cheesecake. Alternatively, sprinkle plain walnuts over the cheesecake for a simple garnish.

Enjoy your Apple Cheesecake, a delightful combination of creamy cheesecake and warm, spiced apples!