Holiday Baking

Apple Pie Cheesecake: A Cozy Winter Twist on Two Classic American Desserts

by
A slice of apple pie cheesecake topped with cinnamon apples and a buttery crumble, served on a white plate.

There are few things more comforting on a chilly winter day than the scent of apples and cinnamon baking in the oven. For me, it takes me back to my grandmother’s kitchen in upstate New York, where she’d bake apple pies with fruit we picked ourselves every fall. Later, I’d bring in my own twist—layering her sweet, spiced apple filling over a creamy cheesecake base. And just like that, Apple Pie Cheesecake was born—a dessert that perfectly fuses two beloved American classics into one indulgent treat.

This dessert is all about warmth and comfort. The crisp, buttery graham cracker crust, smooth vanilla cheesecake, and gooey cinnamon-apple topping combine to create a bite that feels like a warm hug. It’s the perfect finish to a winter dinner party, Thanksgiving meal, or any time you’re craving something sweet and nostalgic.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Pie Cheesecake

  • Comforting Winter Flavors: Apples, cinnamon, and nutmeg bring that cozy holiday feel.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for prepping the night before.
  • Great for a Crowd: Serves 8–10 people and holds its shape beautifully.
  • Classic Americana: A true fusion of two iconic American desserts.

Ingredients

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10–12 crackers)
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • ½ tsp cinnamon

For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 3 large eggs
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • ½ tsp ground cinnamon

For the Apple Pie Topping:

  • 3 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and sliced
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • ⅓ cup light brown sugar
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
  • 2 tsp cornstarch
  • 2 tbsp water
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Optional Garnish:

  • Whipped cream
  • Caramel drizzle
  • Crushed graham crackers

Equipment You’ll Need

  • 9-inch springform pan
  • Stand mixer or hand mixer
  • Mixing bowls
  • Medium saucepan
  • Spatula
  • Cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter until the crumbs are fully coated.
  3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9-inch springform pan. Use the back of a measuring cup for a smooth, even surface.
  4. Bake the crust for 10 minutes. Remove and let cool slightly.

2. Make the Cheesecake Filling

  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
  2. Add sugar, vanilla, flour, and cinnamon. Beat until fully incorporated.
  3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed and scraping down the sides as needed.
  4. Fold in the sour cream until smooth.
  5. Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust and smooth the top.

3. Bake the Cheesecake

  1. Place the springform pan on a baking sheet. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 55–65 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly but set.
  2. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour to prevent cracks.
  3. Transfer to a wire rack and cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight).

4. Make the Apple Pie Topping

  1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  2. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until apples are tender but not mushy.
  3. Stir in the cornstarch mixed with water and cook until the mixture thickens, about 2 minutes.
  4. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla, and let cool to room temperature.

5. Assemble and Serve

  1. Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, spoon the cooled apple topping evenly over the top.
  2. Garnish with whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel if desired.
  3. Slice and serve!

Make It Ahead

This Apple Pie Cheesecake is an ideal make-ahead dessert. Simply bake and chill the cheesecake a day in advance, and prep the apple topping separately. Assemble just before serving to maintain the topping’s freshness and texture.

Tips for the Perfect Apple Pie Cheesecake

  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free batter.
  • No Cracks Please: Don’t overmix the batter and avoid opening the oven while baking.
  • Chill Time: Let the cheesecake chill for at least 4 hours. Overnight is best.
  • Apple Variety: Use tart apples like Granny Smith to balance the sweetness of the cheesecake.

Variations

  • Apple Crumble Cheesecake: Add a buttery crumble topping over the apples before serving.
  • Salted Caramel Apple Cheesecake: Drizzle homemade or store-bought salted caramel sauce on top.
  • Mini Cheesecakes: Use a muffin tin for personal-sized versions, perfect for parties.

Pairing Suggestions

This dessert pairs wonderfully with:

  • Spiced Chai Latte or Hot Apple Cider: For that full winter experience.
  • Sweet Dessert Wine: Such as Riesling or Moscato.
  • Vanilla Ice Cream: If you’re feeling extra indulgent.

Storage Instructions

  • Refrigerator: Store covered in the fridge for up to 5 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Reader’s Corner

Have you tried this Apple Pie Cheesecake recipe? Did you add your own twist—maybe a different spice or a pecan crust? I’d love to hear your take! Share your version in the comments below or tag your photo with #CozyKitchenWithSarah on Instagram!

External Resources

Here are some useful links for deeper dives: