There’s something incredibly comforting about the combination of creamy, smooth cheesecake and the warm, spiced flavors of apple cider. This Apple Cider Cheesecake takes two beloved fall favorites and blends them into one irresistible dessert. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a rich and velvety cheesecake filling infused with apple cider, and a topping of caramelized apples, this cheesecake is perfect for any autumn occasion. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or just craving a decadent treat, this recipe is sure to impress. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating a dessert that’s as satisfying as it is elegant. Here’s why it’s a favorite
Buttery Crust: The base layer of crushed graham crackers provides a perfect foundation for the cheesecake.
Creamy Filling: A luscious blend of cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and apple cider creates a smooth and flavorful center.
Caramelized Apples: Topped with sweet, tender apples cooked in a touch of brown sugar and cinnamon, adding a delightful crunch and sweetness.
Quick and Easy: While it requires some prep time, the steps are straightforward, making it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers.
Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like whipped cream, nuts, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence
Ingredients
Graham Crackers: Crushed into crumbs for the buttery crust.
Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and helps bind the crust together.
Cream Cheese: Provides the base for the creamy filling, adding both sweetness and creaminess.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake without overpowering the apple cider flavor.
Eggs: Act as binders and contribute moisture to the cheesecake.
Apple Cider: Infuses the filling with a warm, spiced flavor.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile of the cheesecake.
Apples: Fresh apples provide natural sweetness and texture for the topping.
Brown Sugar: Adds depth and caramelization to the apple topping.
Cinnamon: Brings warmth and spice to the apple topping.
Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this delightful cheesecake
Prepare the Crust: Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs and mix with melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan.
Make the Filling: In a large bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add eggs, beating well after each addition. Stir in apple cider. Pour the mixture over the prepared crust.
Bake the Cheesecake: Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is still slightly jiggly. Let cool completely before chilling.
Prepare the Apple Topping: In a skillet, cook sliced apples with brown sugar and cinnamon until soft and caramelized.
Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight. Top with caramelized apples before serving. Enjoy every bite of this delicious Apple Cider Cheesecake!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 350
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
How to Serve Apple Cider Cheesecake
This cheesecake pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your experience
Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of fresh strawberries or raspberries for a burst of freshness.
Whipped Cream: Top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
As a Standalone: Sometimes, this cheesecake is decadent enough to enjoy on its own. Simply savor each slice and let the flavors dance on your palate
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe
Use Ripe Apples: The riper the apple, the sweeter and more flavorful the topping. Choose firm apples that hold their shape when cooked.
Double the Batch: This recipe scales easily, so feel free to double it for larger gatherings or meal prep.
Freeze for Later: Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Add Toppings: For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle melted chocolate or sprinkle with chopped nuts on top.
Experiment with Fillings: Try adding spices like nutmeg or allspice for added warmth and flavor
FAQ Section
1. Can I use store-bought graham cracker crumbs? Yes! Using store-bought crumbs saves time and ensures a consistent texture.
2. What type of cream cheese should I use? Full-fat cream cheese works best for achieving the right balance of richness and creaminess. For a lighter option, use light cream cheese.
3. Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the cheesecake up to a day in advance and refrigerate it. Simply garnish and serve when ready.
4. How do I store leftover cheesecake? Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Freeze for longer storage.
5. Can I freeze the cheesecake? Absolutely! Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
6. Can I double the recipe? Definitely. Doubling the recipe is simple and ensures you have plenty for sharing or snacking later.
7. Is this recipe suitable for a low-sugar diet? Not as written, but you can reduce the amount of sugar in the filling or use a sugar-free alternative.
8. Can I skip the apple topping? You can, though the apples add a unique flavor and texture. Substitute with other fruits like pears or peaches if preferred.
9. Do I need to chill the cheesecake? Chilling is essential for setting the filling and ensuring clean cuts.
10. Can I add other toppings to the cheesecake? Absolutely! Sprinkle with chopped nuts, drizzle with caramel sauce, or add a dusting of powdered sugar for added flair
Conclusion
There you have it a delicious and sophisticated Apple Cider Cheesecake recipe that’s sure to become a go-to dessert in your kitchen. With its layers of buttery crust, creamy apple cider-infused filling, and caramelized apple topping, this cheesecake is a treat that satisfies both your cravings and creativity. So gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and let’s bake something amazing together! Your taste buds will thank you.
Print
Apple Cider Cheesecake
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Apple Cider Cheesecake is the perfect fall dessert, combining a spiced graham cracker crust, creamy apple cider-infused filling, and a caramelized apple topping. A cozy, flavorful treat for any occasion!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
For the Topping:
- 2 cups diced apples (peeled and cored)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Optional: Whipped cream for serving
Instructions
Make the Crust:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- Combine Crust Ingredients: In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon until well combined.
- Press into Pan: Firmly press the mixture into the bottom of the springform pan to create an even layer.
- Bake: Bake for 8-10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool while preparing the filling.
Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- Beat Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually mix in the sugar and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Incorporate Apple Cider and Spices: Stir in the apple cider, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour until the mixture is smooth.
Assemble and Bake the Cheesecake:
- Pour Filling Over Crust: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and spread it evenly.
- Bake: Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggles.
- Cool Gradually: Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour to cool gradually.
- Refrigerate: Let it cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight) for the best texture.
Make the Topping:
- Cook Apples: In a saucepan, combine the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until the apples are soft and caramelized. Let them cool slightly.
- Top the Cheesecake: Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, spread the apple topping over the top before serving.
Serving Suggestion:
- Slice and serve with whipped cream if desired. Enjoy!
Notes
- You can use store-bought or homemade apple cider for this recipe.
- For a firmer texture, let the cheesecake chill overnight before serving.
- If using a water bath, wrap the springform pan with foil and place it in a larger baking dish filled with 1 inch of hot water before baking to prevent cracking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (about 120g)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~6g (includes monounsaturated & polyunsaturated fats)
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 75mg