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Cozy Apple Cider Cheesecake

cozy apple cider cheesecake - featured image

A warm, spiced apple cider flavored cheesecake perfect for fall evenings, combining a buttery cinnamon crust with a creamy, cozy filling and optional fresh apple topping.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 full sheets), honey-flavored preferred
  • ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider (fresh or store-bought)
  • 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • ⅓ cup sour cream
  • ¼ cup apple cider
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
  • 1 cup diced apples (tossed in cinnamon and sugar) – optional topping
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar – optional topping
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice – optional topping

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, cinnamon, melted butter, and apple cider. Stir until crumbs are evenly moistened. Press firmly into bottom of 9-inch springform pan. Bake 8–10 minutes until set and fragrant. Let cool.
  2. Beat softened cream cheese in large bowl on medium speed until smooth, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add granulated sugar and beat until no lumps remain. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Mix in sour cream, apple cider, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg on low speed until just combined. Avoid over-mixing.
  3. Pour filling over cooled crust and smooth top. Optionally place springform pan in larger baking dish filled halfway with hot water for water bath. Bake 45–55 minutes until edges are set but center jiggles slightly.
  4. Turn off oven, crack door open, and cool cheesecake inside for about 1 hour. Remove and cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight.
  5. Toss diced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Spoon over chilled cheesecake before serving. Slice with warm, wet knife for clean cuts.

Notes

Soften cream cheese fully before mixing to avoid lumps. Avoid over-mixing to prevent cracks. Using a water bath is recommended for a crack-free surface but not mandatory. Let cheesecake sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving for best flavor and slicing. Cracks can be disguised with apple topping or powdered sugar.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple cider cheesecake, fall dessert, cozy cheesecake, spiced cheesecake, autumn dessert, easy cheesecake recipe