I love this recipe because it delivers several favorite dessert flavors in one bite. The creamy cheesecake layer pairs beautifully with the spiced apple topping, while the crisp crumble adds a delicious texture. I also appreciate that the mini portions make serving easy for parties, holidays, and family gatherings.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Crust:
Graham cracker crumbs
Granulated sugar
Melted butter
For the Cheesecake Filling:
Cream cheese, softened
Granulated sugar
Large eggs
Vanilla extract
Sour cream
For the Apple Topping:
Apples, peeled and diced
Brown sugar
Ground cinnamon
Nutmeg
Lemon juice
For the Crisp Topping:
All-purpose flour
Brown sugar
Rolled oats
Ground cinnamon
Cold butter
Directions
I preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
I combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until evenly moistened.
I press the crust mixture into the bottom of each muffin cup and bake for a few minutes before allowing it to cool slightly.
I beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
I mix in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and sour cream.
I divide the cheesecake batter evenly among the muffin cups.
I combine the diced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice.
I spoon the apple mixture over the cheesecake batter.
I prepare the crisp topping by mixing the flour, brown sugar, oats, cinnamon, and cold butter until crumbly.
I sprinkle the crisp topping over each mini cheesecake.
I bake for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until the centers are nearly set.
I allow the cheesecakes to cool completely before refrigerating them for several hours.
I serve them chilled or slightly cool for the best texture and flavor.
Servings And Timing
Servings: 12 mini cheesecakes
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Chilling Time: 3 hours
Total Time: About 3 hours 50 minutes
Variations
I sometimes add chopped pecans or walnuts to the crisp topping for extra crunch.
I like using Honeycrisp or Granny Smith apples depending on whether I want a sweeter or tangier flavor.
I occasionally drizzle caramel sauce over the finished cheesecakes for an extra indulgent touch.
I can add a pinch of apple pie spice to enhance the warm autumn flavors.
Storage/Reheating
I store the mini cheesecakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
I place them in a single layer whenever possible to help maintain the crisp topping.
For longer storage, I freeze them for up to 2 months and thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
I do not recommend reheating because cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled.
FAQs
Can I Make These Mini Cheesecakes Ahead Of Time?
Yes, I often prepare them a day in advance because the texture improves after chilling overnight.
What Are The Best Apples To Use?
I like using Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, Fuji, or Gala apples because they hold their shape well during baking.
Can I Freeze Apple Crisp Mini Cheesecakes?
Yes, I freeze them in an airtight container for up to 2 months and thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
How Do I Know When The Cheesecakes Are Done?
I look for centers that are mostly set with a slight jiggle. They continue to firm up as they cool.
Can I Make These Without The Crisp Topping?
Yes, I can leave off the crisp topping and still enjoy a delicious apple cheesecake dessert.
Conclusion
These Apple Crisp Mini Cheesecakes are the perfect combination of creamy cheesecake, warm cinnamon apples, and crunchy crisp topping. I love serving them during the fall season, holidays, and special occasions because they offer the comforting flavors of apple crisp in a beautiful individual dessert.
Creamy mini cheesecakes topped with sweet cinnamon apples and a buttery crisp topping, making the perfect bite-sized fall dessert for holidays and gatherings.
Author:Sarah
Prep Time:25 minutes
Cook Time:25 minutes
Total Time:2 hours 50 minutes
Yield:12 mini cheesecakes
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Crust
1 cup (100 g) graham cracker crumbs
2 tbsp granulated sugar
4 tbsp (57 g) unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling
16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
¼ cup (60 ml) sour cream
For the Apple Topping
2 medium apples, peeled and diced
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tsp lemon juice
For the Crisp Topping
⅓ cup (40 g) all-purpose flour
⅓ cup (30 g) old-fashioned oats
¼ cup (50 g) brown sugar
¼ tsp cinnamon
3 tbsp (43 g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
Optional Garnish
Caramel sauce
Whipped cream
Extra cinnamon
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a 12-cup muffin pan with paper liners.
In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Divide evenly among the muffin cups and press firmly into the bottoms.
Bake the crusts for 5 minutes, then remove and let cool slightly.
Make the Cheesecake Filling
Beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition.
Mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream until fully combined.
Divide the cheesecake batter evenly among the prepared crusts.
Prepare the Apple Topping
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
Add the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice.
Cook for 5–7 minutes until the apples are slightly softened.
Spoon the apple mixture evenly over the cheesecake batter.
Make the Crisp Topping
In a small bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
Cut in the cold butter using a fork or pastry cutter until crumbly.
Sprinkle the crisp topping over each cheesecake.
Bake
Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the cheesecake centers are just set.
Allow the cheesecakes to cool at room temperature for 30 minutes.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Serve
Drizzle with caramel sauce and top with whipped cream if desired.
Notes
Use firm baking apples such as Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Gala.
Do not overbake the cheesecakes; the centers should still have a slight jiggle.
Chill thoroughly for the best texture and flavor.
The crisp topping can be prepared in advance and refrigerated until needed.
A drizzle of salted caramel adds extra richness.