Pin This decadent apple crisp cheesecake square recipe combines three beloved desserts into one irresistible treat. The buttery graham cracker crust supports a velvety layer of classic cheesecake, topped with cinnamon-spiced apples and finished with a crispy, crumbly oat topping. Each bite delivers multiple textures and flavors that dance perfectly together.
I created this recipe during a holiday gathering where I couldn't decide between making apple crisp or cheesecake. My solution to combine them became an instant family tradition that guests always request the recipe for after their first bite.
Ingredients
- For the graham cracker crust: graham cracker crumbs freshly crushed crackers provide better flavor and texture than pre-packaged crumbs
- For the graham cracker crust: granulated sugar balances the slight saltiness of the crackers
- For the graham cracker crust: unsalted butter melted using unsalted allows you to control the overall salt level
- For the cheesecake layer: cream cheese softened room temperature cream cheese is essential for a smooth texture without lumps
- For the cheesecake layer: granulated sugar just enough sweetness without overpowering
- For the cheesecake layer: large eggs provide structure and richness
- For the cheesecake layer: vanilla extract pure extract delivers the best flavor
- For the apple filling: medium apples peeled cored and diced choose firm varieties that hold their shape when baked
- For the apple filling: light brown sugar adds caramel notes that complement the apples
- For the apple filling: ground cinnamon warming spice that defines apple desserts
- For the apple filling: ground nutmeg adds complexity and depth to the apple flavor
- For the crisp topping: all-purpose flour provides structure to the topping
- For the crisp topping: old-fashioned oats adds wonderful texture and rustic appearance
- For the crisp topping: light brown sugar creates those irresistible caramelized bits
- For the crisp topping: ground cinnamon echoes the spice in the apple layer
- For the crisp topping: salt enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness
- For the crisp topping: unsalted butter cold and diced keeping it cold creates the perfect crumbly texture
Instructions
- Prepare the pan:
- Line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper leaving generous overhangs on at least two sides. This creates handles that make removing the finished dessert effortless. Preheat your oven to 350°F to ensure even baking from the start.
- Make the crust:
- Combine the graham cracker crumbs with sugar and melted butter in a bowl until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan using the flat bottom of a measuring cup for a smooth compact base. Bake for 8 minutes until just beginning to turn golden and slightly fragrant. The pre-baking step ensures a crisp rather than soggy foundation.
- Create the cheesecake layer:
- Beat the softened cream cheese and sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes until completely smooth and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time mixing thoroughly after each addition but avoid overbeating which can incorporate too much air. Gently fold in vanilla extract until just combined then pour this velvety mixture over the slightly cooled crust spreading it into an even layer.
- Prepare the apple filling:
- Toss the diced apples with brown sugar cinnamon and nutmeg in a bowl until evenly coated. The sugar will begin to draw out juices from the apples creating a light syrup. Distribute this mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer being careful not to press down which would disturb the unbaked cheesecake beneath.
- Make the crisp topping:
- Whisk together flour oats brown sugar cinnamon and salt in a medium bowl until well combined. Add the cold diced butter and use a pastry cutter fork or clean fingers to work the butter into the dry ingredients. Continue until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized butter pieces remaining these create the perfect crispy texture during baking. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the apple layer covering the entire surface.
- Bake to perfection:
- Place the assembled dessert in your preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. You'll know it's done when the center of the cheesecake appears set when gently shaken the crisp topping is golden brown and your kitchen smells amazing. The edges might puff slightly higher than the center which is normal.
- Cooling and setting:
- Allow the dessert to cool completely at room temperature for about 1 hour before transferring to the refrigerator. Chill for at least 3 hours or preferably overnight to allow the cheesecake to fully set which makes for clean beautiful slices. Once chilled use the parchment paper overhangs to lift the entire dessert out of the pan and transfer to a cutting board where you can slice into squares.
Pin The most magical element of this recipe is the way the apples transform during baking. They soften just enough while maintaining some structure creating a delightful contrast against the creamy cheesecake. My grandmother always said that the secret to any good apple dessert is using a mix of apple varieties. I like to use one Granny Smith for tartness and one Honeycrisp for sweetness which creates a perfectly balanced flavor profile.
Make-Ahead Options
These squares actually improve with time as the flavors meld together. You can prepare the entire recipe up to three days before serving simply keep it covered in the refrigerator. The graham cracker crust stays surprisingly crisp while the flavors deepen and intensify. For longer storage wrap individual squares tightly and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture when serving.
Seasonal Adaptations
Summer version Replace apples with fresh berries like blueberries or strawberries and reduce the baking time by about 5 minutes since berries release more moisture. Fall harvest Enhance the apple flavor with a tablespoon of apple butter mixed into the filling and add a pinch of allspice. Winter warmth Add 2 tablespoons of minced crystallized ginger to the apple mixture for a warming holiday twist.
Serving Suggestions
While these squares are absolutely delicious on their own consider elevating them for special occasions. Warm a square for 15 seconds in the microwave and top with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a delightful temperature contrast. Alternatively drizzle with homemade salted caramel sauce or dust with powdered sugar just before serving for an elegant presentation. For brunch gatherings serve alongside a strong coffee with cinnamon whipped cream on the side.
Troubleshooting Tips
If your cheesecake develops cracks don't worry the apple and crisp layers will hide them completely. To prevent a soggy crust make sure to prebake it as directed and allow it to cool slightly before adding the cheesecake layer. If the topping browns too quickly cover loosely with foil for the remainder of the baking time.
Pin The contrast of textures and flavors makes even a modest portion completely satisfying.
Recipe FAQ
- → What apples work best for this dessert?
Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples are ideal, providing a balance of tartness and structure for baking.
- → Can I make these squares ahead of time?
Yes, they can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator to set and chill thoroughly.
- → How should the oat topping be mixed?
Use a pastry cutter or fork to combine cold butter with flour, oats, and sugar until the mixture becomes crumbly.
- → What size baking pan is needed?
A 9x9-inch (23x23 cm) pan is recommended for even baking and easy portioning of squares.
- → Are there any serving suggestions?
Try serving with salted caramel sauce or vanilla ice cream for added flavor and creaminess.
- → Is this dessert vegetarian?
Yes, it is suitable for vegetarians as it contains no meat or gelatin, but does include dairy and eggs.