Get ready to embark on a heavenly journey where the comforting flavors of Dutch apple pie meet the lusciousness of creamy cheesecake. The Dutch Apple Pie Cheesecake is a delightful fusion of two beloved desserts, resulting in a show-stopping creation that will leave your taste buds in awe. With layers of spiced apples, velvety cheesecake, and a buttery crumb topping, this dessert is the epitome of indulgence. So, let’s dive into the recipe and experience the best of both worlds!
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
– 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/3 cup melted unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Cheesecake Filling:
– 24 ounces (680g) cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup sour cream
For the Apple Pie Filling:
– 3 cups peeled, cored, and thinly sliced apples (such as Granny Smith)
– 1/3 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
For the Crumb Topping:
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Crust
In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared springform pan to create an even crust layer. Set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until well combined.
Step 4: Pour the Cheesecake Filling
Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust in the springform pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Set aside.
Step 5: Prepare the Apple Pie Filling
In a separate bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, lemon juice, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Toss until the apples are well coated with the mixture. Spoon the apple pie filling evenly over the cheesecake layer.
Step 6: Make the Crumb Topping
In a small bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Cut in the cold cubed butter using a fork or pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle the crumb topping over the apple pie filling.
Step 7: Bake and Cool
Place the assembled cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 60-70 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, carefully run a knife around the edge of the pan to loosen the cheesecake. Allow it to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Step 8: Chill and Serve
Once completely cooled, refrigerate the Dutch Apple Pie Cheesecake for at least 4 hours
Here are some tips to help you perfect your Dutch Apple Pie Cheesecake:
1. Choose the Right Apples: Opt for tart and firm apples like Granny Smith, as they hold their shape well during baking and provide a nice contrast to the sweetness of the cheesecake. You can also mix apple varieties for added flavor complexity.
2. Slice Apples Thinly: Thinly sliced apples will cook more evenly and create a tender apple pie layer. Aim for slices that are about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick.
3. Add a Touch of Lemon Juice: Tossing the apple slices with lemon juice not only adds a subtle tangy flavor but also helps prevent browning.
4. Spice it Up: Feel free to adjust the spices in the apple pie filling to suit your taste. You can add a pinch of cloves, ginger, or even a dash of apple pie spice for extra warmth and depth of flavor.
5. Don’t Overmix the Cheesecake Batter: When making the cheesecake filling, be careful not to overmix the ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense and tough texture. Mix until just combined to ensure a creamy and light cheesecake layer.
6. Use an Oven Thermometer: To ensure accurate baking temperature, consider using an oven thermometer. This helps guarantee that your cheesecake bakes at the right temperature, leading to even baking and a perfectly cooked dessert.
7. Allow for Proper Cooling and Chilling: Let your cheesecake cool in the pan before transferring it to the refrigerator. Cooling at room temperature prevents rapid temperature changes, which can cause cracks. Once chilled, the flavors will meld together, and the cheesecake will become firmer for easy slicing.
8. Serve with a Dollop of Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: To elevate the indulgence, serve your Dutch Apple Pie Cheesecake with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy additions complement the flavors and provide a delightful contrast in texture.
Remember, baking is an art, and practice makes perfect. Enjoy the process of creating this delectable dessert, and don’t be afraid to add your own personal touch and variations along the way. Happy baking!
