If you’re looking for a dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the warm, nostalgic flavors of spiced apples and a crunchy oat topping, you’ve got to try this Apple Crisp Mini Cheesecakes Recipe. This delightful treat is like biting into a cozy autumn afternoon, captured perfectly in a petite, handheld portion. Each mini cheesecake offers a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth cream cheese filling, tender cinnamon-scented apples, and a crispy oat crumble on top. It’s the ultimate dessert to impress friends or simply enjoy as a comforting indulgence at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Apple Crisp Mini Cheesecakes Recipe lies in its simple, yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role—from the tangy cream cheese base to the sweet cinnamon apples, and the crunchy oat crisp topping that completes every bite with texture and flavor.
- Cream cheese, 16 ounces (softened): Provides a smooth, creamy base essential for perfect cheesecake texture.
- Granulated sugar, ½ cup: Sweetens the cheesecake filling gently without overpowering.
- Vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon: Adds warm fragrant notes deepening the flavor profile.
- Large eggs, 2: Bind ingredients and give structure to the cheesecake.
- Sour cream, ½ cup: Adds richness and a slight tang, balancing sweetness beautifully.
- Apples, 2 cups (peeled, cored, diced): Fresh fruit that gives the recipe its signature apple crisp element.
- Brown sugar, ÂĽ cup: Brings caramel-like sweetness to the apple filling.
- Cinnamon, 1 teaspoon: Infuses the apples with cozy spice, perfectly fitting for any season.
- Lemon juice, 1 tablespoon: Brightens the apple flavor and prevents browning.
- Rolled oats, Âľ cup: The heart of the crisp topping, adding chewiness and crunch.
- All-purpose flour, ½ cup: Helps bind the topping to stay crumbly and crispy.
- Butter, ½ cup melted (for crust): Combines with the graham crackers to create a buttery crust.
- Graham cracker crumbs, 1 cup: Forms a sturdy, flavorful base for each mini cheesecake.
- Granulated sugar, â…“ cup (for crust): Sweetens and balances the crust’s flavor.
- Butter, ½ cup melted (for topping): Adds richness and helps crisp up the oat topping.
How to Make Apple Crisp Mini Cheesecakes Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First things first, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a muffin pan with cupcake liners—these will help you easily lift the mini cheesecakes out once they’re baked and chilled.
Step 2: Make the Crust
Mix together the graham cracker crumbs, the ⅓ cup granulated sugar, and the melted ½ cup butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press about a tablespoon firmly into the bottom of each cupcake liner. This crust forms the buttery, crunchy base that gives every bite the perfect foundation.
Step 3: Prepare the Apple Filling
In a separate bowl, toss your peeled and diced apples with the brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. This mixture infuses the apples with sweet warmth and just a hint of tang, enhancing the crisp topping and complementing the creamy filling.
Step 4: Whip the Cheesecake Filling
With a mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s velvety smooth. Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing gently just until combined. Finally, fold in the sour cream for a creamy finish that’s tangy and rich.
Step 5: Assemble the Cheesecakes
Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the graham cracker crusts, filling each liner about two-thirds full. Spoon a generous helping of the apple filling on top of the cheesecake batter—this will bake into soft, flavorful fruit pockets.
Step 6: Add the Apple Crisp Topping
Combine the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, and melted butter in a bowl, mixing until crumbly. Sprinkle this crisp topping liberally over the apples, adding that irresistible crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
Step 7: Bake and Cool
Bake your mini cheesecakes for 25 to 30 minutes until the edges are set and the centers have a gentle jiggle. Let them cool in the pan for 20 to 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least two hours. This chilling time is crucial for the perfect cheesecake texture and to let all the flavors meld.
How to Serve Apple Crisp Mini Cheesecakes Recipe
Garnishes
Top your mini cheesecakes with a light dusting of cinnamon or powdered sugar for an elegant touch. A dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce adds even more indulgence, highlighting the warm apple flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
Serve these mini cheesecakes with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic pairing, or alongside a fresh fruit salad to keep things light and refreshing. A cup of chai or warm apple cider is also fantastic alongside, emphasizing those cozy, autumnal vibes.
Creative Ways to Present
These mini cheesecakes shine on a rustic wooden platter or a simple white tray to showcase their layers. For a party, consider serving them in individual clear cups with a small spoon—this lets guests appreciate each component visually before diving in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Apple Crisp Mini Cheesecakes Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This keeps the cheesecake filling fresh and the crisp topping delightfully crunchy.
Freezing
These mini cheesecakes freeze well. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to two months frozen. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Because these are best served chilled, simply allow frozen cheesecakes to thaw completely in the refrigerator. If you prefer a warm topping, gently heat the apple crisp separately and sprinkle it on top after warming for a delightful contrast.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples?
Absolutely! Firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best as they hold their shape during baking and offer a nice balance of tartness and sweetness.
Do I have to use cupcake liners?
While liners make removing the mini cheesecakes easier, you can grease the muffin pan well if you want to skip them. Just be gentle when taking them out to keep the crust intact.
Can I make this dessert dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, try using dairy-free cream cheese, sour cream alternatives, and plant-based butter. The texture might differ slightly but the flavors will still shine.
Is it possible to double the recipe?
Yes! Just double all ingredients and bake in two pans or more, adjusting baking time slightly if needed to ensure even cooking.
How do I know when the cheesecakes are done?
The edges should be set and the center will have a slight jiggle but won’t look liquidy. This ensures a creamy, smooth texture without overbaking.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Crisp Mini Cheesecakes Recipe is a true showstopper that brings together beloved fall flavors and the creamy satisfaction of cheesecake in a bite-sized treat. Whether you’re baking for a special event, a cozy evening in, or to share with friends, these little delights are sure to become a new favorite. Don’t hesitate to dive in and make these soon—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them!
Print
Apple Crisp Mini Cheesecakes Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 60 minutes
- Yield: 12 mini cheesecakes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Apple Crisp Mini Cheesecakes combine a creamy cheesecake filling with a delicious apple crisp topping, baked in individual portions perfect for dessert lovers. Featuring a graham cracker crust, spiced apple filling, and a crunchy oat crumble on top, these mini cheesecakes offer a delightful balance of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- â…“ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup butter, melted
Apple Filling
- 2 cups apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- ÂĽ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup sour cream
Apple Crisp Topping
- Âľ cup rolled oats
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ÂĽ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a muffin pan with cupcake liners to ensure easy removal and neat presentation of the mini cheesecakes.
- Make the Crust: In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix well until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press about 1 tablespoon of the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of each lined muffin cup to form an even base.
- Prepare the Apple Filling: In another bowl, toss the peeled, cored, and diced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. This mixture will add a sweet and spiced flavor layer to the cheesecakes.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add granulated sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until fully combined. Incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating on low speed after each addition just until combined. Finally, mix in the sour cream until the batter is smooth and homogenous.
- Assemble the Mini Cheesecakes: Pour the cheesecake batter over the prepared crust in each muffin liner, filling them about two-thirds full. Spoon the prepared apple mixture evenly on top of the cheesecake batter in each cup.
- Prepare the Apple Crisp Topping: In a separate bowl, combine rolled oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, and melted butter. Mix until crumbly and sprinkle generously over the apples on each cheesecake.
- Bake: Place the muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers appear slightly jiggly but not liquid.
- Cool: Remove the mini cheesecakes from the oven and let them cool in the muffin pan for 20 to 30 minutes. Then transfer them to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours to allow the cheesecakes to fully set.
- Serve: Once chilled, carefully remove the mini cheesecakes from the liners and arrange them on a serving platter. Enjoy these delightful individual desserts!
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to avoid lumps in the cheesecake filling.
- Do not overbake; the center should be slightly jiggly to ensure a creamy texture.
- Use fresh apples for the best flavor and texture in the filling.
- Chilling the cheesecakes for at least 2 hours is essential to achieving the perfect consistency before serving.
