Description
There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of apples, cinnamon, and butter baking in the oven. Combine that with the creamy indulgence of cheesecake, and you have a dessert that feels like a warm hug. Delicious Apple Crisp Mini Cheesecakes are the perfect fusion of two beloved desserts—apple crisp and cheesecake. With a buttery graham cracker crust, luscious cheesecake filling, spiced apples, and a crumbly oat topping, these bite-sized treats are ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Graham Cracker Crust:
- ¾ cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1 ½ tablespoons sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
For the Crumb Topping:
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup light brown sugar
- ⅓ cup quick-cooking oats
- ¾ teaspoon cinnamon
- ⅛ teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 ½ tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
For the Apple Filling:
- 2 medium-small apples (peeled, chopped)
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons cornstarch
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 10 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 6 tablespoons sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
For Serving:
- Caramel sauce (for drizzling)
Instructions
- Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and cinnamon.
- Stir in melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Line a cupcake pan with paper liners and press approximately 2 tablespoons of the crust mixture into each liner.
- Chill the crust in the refrigerator while preparing the other layers.
- Make the Crumb Topping:
- In another bowl, mix together flour, brown sugar, oats, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Add melted butter and stir until the mixture forms coarse crumbs.
- Place in the refrigerator until ready to use.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth.
- Add vanilla extract and flour, then mix to combine.
- Beat in the egg until just incorporated. Avoid overmixing to prevent cracks in the cheesecake.
- Prepare the Apple Filling:
- Toss the chopped apples with lemon juice in a medium bowl to prevent browning.
- Add brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch. Stir until the apples are evenly coated.
- Assemble the Mini Cheesecakes:
- Spoon the cheesecake filling over the graham cracker crusts, filling each liner about two-thirds full.
- Top with a generous layer of spiced apples, pressing them gently into the filling.
- Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the apples.
- Bake the Cheesecakes:
- Bake the cheesecakes in the preheated oven for 28-30 minutes, or until the centers are set.
- Let the cheesecakes cool in the pan for 30 minutes, then transfer them to the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Before serving, drizzle each cheesecake with caramel sauce for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Serve chilled and enjoy the layered flavors and textures in every bite.
Notes
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure cream cheese and egg are at room temperature for a smooth filling.
- Chill Time: Don’t skip the chilling step—it enhances the flavor and texture.
- Even Layers: Use a small spoon or scoop to evenly distribute each layer.
- Fresh Apples: Choose firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best results.
- Customization: Add chopped nuts or raisins to the crumb topping for added texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American