Apple Crisp Mini Cheesecakes

If you’re someone who can’t decide between cheesecake and apple crisp, this dessert will make your decision easy: Apple Crisp Mini Cheesecakes deliver the best of both worlds. These delightful individual treats combine the creamy richness of classic cheesecake, the sweet-spiced filling of apple pie, and the buttery crunch of an oat crumble topping—all layered over a cinnamon-spiced graham cracker crust. Each bite is a celebration of flavor and texture, making them the ultimate fall dessert or year-round indulgence.

Mini cheesecakes are a perfect make-ahead dessert that’s easy to serve and share. These ones, in particular, pack all the comfort of homemade apple crisp into a portable, elegant treat. The apple filling is warm and aromatic with cinnamon and nutmeg, while the cheesecake is smooth and slightly tangy, complementing the sweet crumble on top. A drizzle of caramel sauce before serving takes them to bakery-level perfection. Whether you’re baking for a party, holiday gathering, or just looking for something cozy and delicious, these mini cheesecakes are guaranteed to impress without overwhelming effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Two Desserts in One – Combines apple crisp and cheesecake into a single, indulgent bite.
2. Perfectly Portioned – Individual servings are ideal for parties, gifting, or portion control.
3. Great Make-Ahead Dessert – Can be prepared in advance and chilled until ready to serve.
4. Versatile Year-Round Treat – Works beautifully for fall holidays or anytime you crave a comforting dessert.
5. Beautiful Presentation – With layers and crumble topping, these look as good as they taste.

Ingredients

Graham Cracker Crust

• Graham cracker crumbs
• Sugar
• Cinnamon
• Unsalted butter (melted)

Crumb Topping

• All-purpose flour
• Light brown sugar
• Quick-cooking oats
• Cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• Unsalted butter (melted)

Apple Filling

• Apples (peeled and finely chopped)
• Fresh lemon juice
• Cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• Light brown sugar
• Cornstarch

Cheesecake Filling

• Cream cheese (softened)
• Sugar
• Vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour
• Egg

For Serving

• Caramel sauce

Variations

• Swap the Fruit – Try pears, peaches, or berries in place of apples for a different twist.
• Add Nuts – Mix chopped pecans or walnuts into the crumb topping for extra crunch.
• Use a Cookie Crust – Replace graham crackers with crushed gingersnaps or vanilla wafers.
• Add Spice – Boost the fall flavor with cardamom or clove in the apple filling.
• Top with Whipped Cream – A dollop of whipped cream makes for an elegant finish.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners. Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter until combined. Press a spoonful into the bottom of each liner to form a crust. Bake for 5–6 minutes, then set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Apple Filling

Peel and finely chop the apples. Toss with lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, brown sugar, and cornstarch. Set aside to macerate while preparing the cheesecake filling.

Step 3: Mix the Cheesecake Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add vanilla, flour, and egg, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 4: Assemble the Cheesecakes

Spoon cheesecake batter over the cooled crusts, filling each liner about 3/4 full. Add a spoonful of apple mixture on top of the cheesecake layer.

Step 5: Add the Crumb Topping

Mix flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and melted butter until crumbly. Sprinkle over each cheesecake.

Step 6: Bake

Bake for 20–23 minutes, or until centers are set and edges slightly puffed. Let cool in the pan for 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.

Step 7: Serve

Drizzle with caramel sauce just before serving for an irresistible finish.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Chop Apples Finely – Small pieces cook evenly and integrate better into mini cheesecakes.
• Don’t Overbake – Cheesecakes should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
• Cool Completely Before Chilling – This prevents condensation and soggy tops.
• Use Room Temp Ingredients – Ensures a smooth, lump-free cheesecake batter.
• Refrigerate Overnight – Improves texture and flavor, and makes them easier to remove from liners.

How to Serve

• Serve chilled with a drizzle of caramel sauce.
• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for an à la mode experience.
• Garnish with a thin apple slice or cinnamon stick for presentation.
• Sprinkle extra crumble topping on the plate for texture contrast.
• Serve on a dessert platter with other mini treats for variety.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Keep caramel separate and drizzle just before serving.

Freezing

Wrap each cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and place in an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

Not necessary, as these are best served chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer a warm apple crisp experience, microwave briefly (without caramel).

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-made pie filling instead of fresh apples?

Yes, but fresh apples give better texture and flavor. Use pie filling if you’re short on time.

2. Can I make these without cupcake liners?

Liners are strongly recommended for easy removal and presentation.

3. What apples work best for this recipe?

Firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji hold up best during baking.

4. Can I make this as a full cheesecake instead of minis?

Yes—use an 8-inch pan and adjust baking time accordingly (about 45–55 minutes).

5. How can I make these gluten-free?

Use gluten-free graham crackers and oats, and substitute flour with a gluten-free blend.

6. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just prepare two muffin pans or bake in batches.

7. How long should I chill the cheesecakes?

At least 2 hours, but overnight chilling gives the best texture and flavor.

8. Why is my cheesecake filling lumpy?

Lumps often result from using cold cream cheese. Make sure it’s fully softened before mixing.

9. Can I leave out the crumble topping?

You can, but the crumble adds great texture and makes it feel like a true apple crisp hybrid.

10. Do I need a water bath for these?

No, mini cheesecakes bake evenly without one due to their small size.

Conclusion

These Apple Crisp Mini Cheesecakes are the perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, and fruity—everything you love about fall desserts in one irresistible bite. With a buttery graham crust, a smooth cheesecake center, spiced apple filling, and a golden oat crumble, they’re layered with flavor and texture. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday dinner or just craving something sweet and cozy, these mini cheesecakes will quickly become a favorite. Easy to make, beautiful to serve, and impossible to resist—what more could you want in a dessert?

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