✔ Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
✔ Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon in a bowl.
✔ Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
✔ Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.
✅ A crisp, buttery crust that holds everything together!
2️⃣ Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
✔ In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
✔ Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
✔ Stir in sour cream, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until creamy.
✔ Pour over the cooled crust and spread evenly.
✅ This layer is rich, smooth, and pairs perfectly with the apples!
3️⃣ Make the Apple Pie Topping
✔ In a pan over medium heat, cook apples, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
✔ Add the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch + water) and cook for another 2-3 minutes until thickened.
✔ Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
✔ Spread over the cheesecake batter.
✅ These spiced apples add a sweet, cinnamon-kissed layer of flavor!
4️⃣ (Optional) Make the Streusel Topping
✔ In a bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cold butter.
✔ Use your hands or a fork to mix until it forms crumbly pieces.
✔ Sprinkle over the apple topping.
✅ This gives the cheesecake an extra crunchy, bakery-style finish!
5️⃣ Bake the Cheesecake
✔ Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 50-55 minutes until the center is slightly jiggly.
✔ Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour (prevents cracking!).
✔ Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best!).
✅ The chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
6️⃣ Serve & Enjoy!
✔ Remove from the springform pan and drizzle with caramel sauce.
✔ Top with whipped cream and chopped pecans if desired.
✔ Slice and enjoy every creamy, spiced, and decadent bite!
🔥 Variations & Customization
🔹 No-Bake Version – Skip baking, chill the cheesecake layer for 4 hours, then add the apple topping! ❄️
🔹 Chocolate Apple Cheesecake – Drizzle melted chocolate over the top 🍫
🔹 Apple Crumble Cheesecake Bars – Make in a 9×13-inch pan and slice into squares!
🔹 Nutty Crunch – Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the streusel topping 🥜
🥡 Storage & Freezing Tips
✔ Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
✔ Freeze without toppings for up to 2 months (thaw overnight before serving).
✔ Best served chilled or slightly room temperature.
✅ Perfect for meal prep or making ahead for parties!
🏆 Final Thoughts: The Best Apple Cheesecake Ever!
This Apple Pie Cheesecake is the perfect mix of creamy, crunchy, and caramelized goodness! The spiced apple topping, buttery crust, and silky cheesecake layer make this a must-try dessert that will WOW your family & guests!
