Print

Apple Cinnamon Pecan Cheesecake Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.4 from 11 reviews

This delicious Apple Cheesecake combines a buttery graham cracker and pecan crust with a rich, creamy cream cheese filling and a spiced apple topping. Perfectly baked to a smooth finish and topped with crunchy pecans, this dessert is ideal for gatherings and festive occasions.

  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 6 hours 45 minutes (including chilling time)
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Crust

  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans
  • 1/4 cup butter, melted
  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Cheesecake Filling

  • 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Topping

  • 4 cups apples – peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F to ensure it reaches the proper temperature for baking the crust and cheesecake.
  2. Prepare Crust Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, finely chopped pecans, melted butter, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is evenly combined and moistened.
  3. Form and Bake Crust: Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create an even layer. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes or until it turns lightly golden. Once baked, set aside while preparing the filling. Keep the oven on.
  4. Make Cheesecake Filling: Using a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the cream cheese and 1/2 cup sugar on medium speed until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then add vanilla extract. Mix until the filling is uniform and smooth, scraping the bowl sides to avoid lumps.
  5. Assemble Cheesecake: Pour the smooth cheesecake filling over the pre-baked crust in the springform pan, spreading evenly.
  6. Prepare Apple Topping: In a large bowl, toss the peeled, cored, and thinly sliced apples with the sugar and cinnamon mixture until all slices are well coated.
  7. Add Topping to Cheesecake: Arrange the coated apples evenly over the cheesecake filling, then sprinkle chopped pecans on top to add texture and flavor.
  8. Bake the Cheesecake: Bake the assembled cheesecake in the oven at 350°F for 60 to 70 minutes. The center should be just set but slightly jiggly. Once baked, run a table knife around the edges of the pan to loosen the cheesecake, then transfer the pan to a wire rack.
  9. Cool and Chill: Allow the cheesecake to cool to room temperature on the wire rack for about 1 hour. Then refrigerate it until completely chilled, at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
  10. Serve: Before serving, drizzle the cheesecake with caramel sauce or top with whipped cream to complement the flavors.

Notes

  • For best results, make sure cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps.
  • You can substitute pecans with walnuts if preferred.
  • Ensure the cheesecake is fully chilled before serving to allow it to set properly.
  • If caramel sauce is unavailable, honey or maple syrup can be an alternative topping.