If there’s one dessert that wraps up all the coziness of fall with the creamy delight of cheesecake, it’s the No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake. With a buttery graham cracker crust, luscious cheesecake filling, and sweet apple pie topping, this treat combines the best of two classic desserts without ever touching your oven. It’s quick to assemble, crowd-pleasing, and the ultimate make-ahead option for entertaining or a delightful weeknight treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every simple ingredient in this No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake recipe plays an important role — from the buttery crunch of the crust to the fluffy, creamy filling and fruity apple topping. Here’s what you’ll need and why each is essential:
- Graham cracker crumbs: The foundation of a perfect cheesecake base, bringing crunch and a light sweetness.
- Granulated sugar: Keeps the crust just sweet enough and helps bind the crumbs together.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Holds the crust together and gives it a rich, buttery flavor.
- Cream cheese (softened): The star of the cheesecake layer, ensuring ultra-creamy texture and tangy flavor.
- Powdered sugar: Melts smoothly into the filling, providing sweetness without any grittiness.
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to enhance both the filling and the overall flavor profile.
- Whipped topping (such as Cool Whip): Lightens the cheesecake filling and makes it incredibly fluffy.
- Apple pie filling (canned): Brings instant apple pie flavor and gorgeous glossy topping — so easy!
- Ground cinnamon (optional): A sprinkle on top adds extra warmth and that irresistible “apple pie” vibe.
- Chopped pecans or caramel sauce (optional): For a beautiful finish and an extra touch of flavor and crunch.
How to Make No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake
Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust
Start by mixing together the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter in a medium bowl. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan or a pie dish, using the back of a measuring cup to firmly compact it. Pop the crust into the refrigerator while you whip up the next layer. This chill time allows the butter to firm up and gives you a sturdy base to hold all that creamy goodness.
Step 2: Whip Up the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until completely smooth and creamy. Take your time with this step — no lumps allowed! Once you’re confident it’s silky, gently fold in the whipped topping. The goal is to keep the filling airy and luxurious, so use a spatula and gentle strokes. As soon as it’s fully combined, spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the cold crust, smoothing out the top for an even layer.
Step 3: Add the Apple Pie Topping
Now comes the moment where your No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake starts to really shine! Spoon the apple pie filling straight from the can, spreading it in an even layer on top of the cheesecake. If you want to crank up the fall flavor, sprinkle a little ground cinnamon all over the top. That hint of spice mingling with the sweet apples creates pure magic with every bite.
Step 4: Chill Until Set
This is the hardest step — waiting! Cover the cheesecake (a loose layer of plastic wrap works well) and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you can wait that long. This chill time ensures the dessert slices up beautifully and gives all those flavors time to mingle. Trust me, it’s worth the patience!
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
When you’re ready to serve, finish your masterpiece by sprinkling chopped pecans or drizzling with caramel sauce if you like. These garnishes add wonderful texture and a little extra sweetness, making your No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake downright irresistible.
How to Serve No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake
Garnishes
A finishing touch can turn this dessert into a true showstopper. Try a sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans for crunch or a generous drizzle of caramel sauce to really play up the apple pie flavors. A dollop of extra whipped topping never hurts either! These little add-ons not only look stunning but add delicious texture and flavor with every forkful.
Side Dishes
Since No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake is quite rich, pair it with something light and crisp. Consider serving with fresh apple slices, a mug of hot apple cider, or even a bowl of vanilla ice cream for an extra-indulgent treat. The tartness and freshness from the fruit or a cold sip alongside help balance the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
If you love getting creative, try making individual mini cheesecakes in jars or ramekins for an adorable single-serve version. You can also layer the crust, filling, and apples in small cups for a fun dessert bar. These formats are great for parties and picnics and make it easy to serve a crowd (with no messy slicing!).
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, simply cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container. The cheesecake keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days, maintaining its creamy texture and flavor. Slight softening of the crust is normal, but it’s just as delicious!
Freezing
This No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake freezes well if you want to prep ahead. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or store individual slices in freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving — the texture stays surprisingly creamy even after freezing.
Reheating
No need for reheating here, as this cheesecake is meant to be enjoyed chilled. Just serve it straight from the fridge. However, if you froze it, allow enough time for it to thaw gently in the refrigerator so you get that perfect creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I make No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, this dessert gets even better with a little time in the fridge. Make it up to 24 hours ahead, cover tightly, and let the flavors deepen — your future self will thank you at dessert time.
Can I use homemade apple pie filling?
Definitely! Just cook your own apples with sugar, cinnamon, and a touch of cornstarch until thick and syrupy. Cool completely before spreading over the cheesecake filling for a fresh, from-scratch flavor.
What if I don’t have a springform pan?
No worries — a deep-dish pie plate or square baking dish works just as well. Just grease it lightly or line with parchment for easier serving. The fun is in the flavors, not the shape!
Is there a substitute for whipped topping?
You can use freshly whipped cream sweetened with a bit of powdered sugar as an alternative to store-bought whipped topping. Whip to stiff peaks for the best results, and fold in gently to keep the filling light.
Can I make this gluten free?
Yes! Substitute gluten-free graham crackers for the crust and ensure other ingredients are certified gluten free. The rest of the recipe is naturally gluten free, making it an easy swap for special diets.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dessert that’s as easy as it is downright delicious, you can’t go wrong with No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake. It’s creamy, sweet, and bursting with flavor in every single bite — plus, it comes together in a flash. I can’t wait for you to try it and see why it’s such a hit in my kitchen. Enjoy every dreamy, apple-filled forkful!
Print
No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delicious fusion of apple pie and creamy cheesecake with this easy no-bake dessert. Perfect for fall gatherings or anytime you crave a sweet treat.
Ingredients
Graham Cracker Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 oz whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
Topping:
- 1 can (21 oz) apple pie filling
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Chopped pecans or caramel sauce for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Graham Cracker Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan or pie dish. Chill.
- Cheesecake Filling: Beat cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth. Fold in whipped topping. Spread over crust.
- Assembly: Spoon apple pie filling over the cheesecake layer. Sprinkle with cinnamon. Refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight.
- Serving: Garnish with pecans or caramel sauce before serving.
Notes
- For a homemade touch, consider making your apple pie topping from fresh apples.
- Best served chilled.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *