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
Units
Scale
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