Indulge in the rich and velvety texture of an apple butter cheesecake—a delightful twist on the classic cheesecake recipe. The smooth and creamy filling paired with the sweet spiced flavor of apple butter creates a dessert that will be the highlight of any gathering. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a cheesecake novice, this recipe will guide you every step of the way to make a flawless apple butter cheesecake that will leave your taste buds craving more.
What is Apple Butter Cheesecake?
Apple butter cheesecake combines the decadence of cheesecake with the rich, spiced flavors of apple butter. The result is a perfect harmony of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors. Apple butter, a spread made from slow-cooked apples, sugar, and spices, adds a deep flavor to the cheesecake, giving it a quintessentially fall feel. Each bite offers a balance of sweetness and spice, making it the ideal dessert for cooler months or holiday gatherings.
Keep reading to discover the complete recipe, step-by-step instructions, and tips on how to make this mouthwatering dessert at home!
Ingredients List for the Crust
The crust is the foundation of any great cheesecake. For this apple butter cheesecake, we’re using a classic graham cracker crust, enhanced with a touch of cinnamon for extra warmth and flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups (204 g) graham cracker crumbs – This amounts to roughly 12-13 full graham cracker sheets. You can either crush them by hand or use a food processor for a finer texture.
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon – Cinnamon adds a warm, comforting spice to the crust, pairing perfectly with the apple butter in the filling.
- ½ cup (1 stick / 113 g) unsalted butter, melted – The melted butter binds the graham cracker crumbs together, giving the crust structure and a rich, buttery flavor.
Ingredients List for the Filling
The filling of the cheesecake is where the magic happens. It’s rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced with the apple butter. Here’s what you’ll need for the filling:
- 2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened – Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to avoid lumps in your batter.
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar – Sugar sweetens the filling, balancing the tanginess of the cream cheese.
- 2 cups (476 g) heavy cream – Heavy cream adds richness and ensures a smooth, creamy texture for the filling.
- ¾ teaspoon fresh lemon juice – A small amount of lemon juice brightens the flavors and cuts through the richness of the cheesecake.
- ½ cup (120 g) apple butter – Apple butter adds depth and a distinct apple-cinnamon flavor, elevating the cheesecake to the next level.
Substitutions and Variations
If you need to make some substitutions or want to experiment with variations, here are some ideas:
- Graham Cracker Substitution: Swap out graham crackers with ginger snaps or digestive biscuits for a spicier, crunchier crust. This change will complement the apple butter’s spiced flavor nicely.
- Dairy-Free Version: You can substitute cream cheese with dairy-free cream cheese and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Ensure your butter is dairy-free, or opt for margarine.
- Apple Butter Variations: If you don’t have apple butter, try substituting it with a thick applesauce or even pumpkin butter for a fall twist. Keep in mind that pumpkin butter will change the flavor profile slightly but still be delicious.
- Sugar Substitutes: If you're trying to reduce sugar, swap granulated sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like erythritol, though this may slightly affect the texture of the cheesecake.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to start baking! Follow these step-by-step instructions to create the perfect apple butter cheesecake.

1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). While the oven heats, you can begin preparing the crust and filling.
2. Prepare the Crust
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, cinnamon, and melted butter. Stir until all the crumbs are evenly coated with butter and the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, ensuring that the crust is evenly distributed. Bake the crust for about 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.
3. Make the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy, about 3-4 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure there are no lumps. Gradually add the heavy cream and continue mixing until the filling is light and fluffy.
Next, add the lemon juice and apple butter to the mixture. Beat until everything is well combined and smooth. The apple butter will give the filling a beautiful, warm hue.
4. Assemble the Cheesecake
Pour the apple butter cheesecake filling over the cooled graham cracker crust. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure it’s even.
5. Bake the Cheesecake
Place the cheesecake in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Avoid opening the oven door frequently, as this can cause the cheesecake to crack. Once the baking time is up, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for another hour to cool slowly.
6. Chill the Cheesecake
Once the cheesecake has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to the refrigerator to chill for at least 4-6 hours or overnight. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up.
How to Cook Apple Butter Cheesecake: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Mix together graham cracker crumbs, cinnamon, and melted butter for the crust.
- Press the crust mixture into the bottom of a springform pan and bake for 10 minutes.
- Prepare the filling by beating cream cheese and sugar together until smooth.
- Add in heavy cream, apple butter, and lemon juice, mixing until combined.
- Pour the filling over the crust and bake for 45-50 minutes.
- Allow the cheesecake to cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for one hour, then chill in the fridge.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overbaking: Overbaking can lead to a dry and cracked cheesecake. Keep an eye on the cheesecake, and remember that the center should still be slightly jiggly when it’s done.
- Skipping the Water Bath: Although not strictly necessary, baking your cheesecake in a water bath (placing the springform pan in a larger pan filled with hot water) can help prevent cracks.
- Not Softening the Cream Cheese: If your cream cheese isn’t fully softened, your filling may have lumps, so plan ahead and leave it out at room temperature.
Serving and Presentation Tips
A cheesecake as beautiful and delicious as this one deserves to be served with flair! When you’re ready to serve, remove the cheesecake from the fridge and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before slicing. Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water to achieve clean, even slices.
How to Serve Apple Butter Cheesecake
- Serve it with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
- Add some freshly sliced apples dusted with cinnamon for a beautiful garnish.
- Serve alongside a hot cup of coffee or apple cider for the ultimate fall treat.
Presentation Ideas for Apple Butter Cheesecake
- Garnish the top of the cheesecake with a swirl of apple butter or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a professional look.
- Use a piping bag to add decorative dollops of whipped cream around the edges.
- You could also top the cheesecake with thin slices of caramelized apples to add a touch of elegance.
Apple Butter Cheesecake Recipe Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure all your ingredients (especially the cream cheese) are at room temperature. This ensures the filling is smooth and lump-free.
- Chill for Best Results: Cheesecakes need plenty of time to chill to achieve the perfect texture, so plan ahead. Overnight chilling is best.
- Use a Springform Pan: A springform pan allows you to remove the cheesecake easily without damaging the sides.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I freeze apple butter cheesecake?
A: Yes, you can freeze apple butter cheesecake! Wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Q: Do I have to use a water bath?
A: A water bath isn’t necessary, but it helps prevent cracks. If you’re confident with your baking, you can skip this step, but if you want extra insurance, use a water bath.
Q: What if my cheesecake cracks?
A: Don’t worry! Even if your cheesecake cracks, it will still taste delicious. You can cover any cracks with whipped cream, apple slices, or caramel sauce.
Conclusion
Apple butter cheesecake is a fall-inspired dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the spiced sweetness of apple butter. With its smooth texture and balanced flavors, it’s the perfect dessert to serve at gatherings, holidays, or whenever you’re craving a decadent treat. Whether you follow the recipe as-is or add your own twist, this cheesecake is sure to impress! Don’t wait—try this recipe today and enjoy the delightful flavors of apple butter cheesecake.
PrintApple Butter Cheesecake Recipe
This rich and creamy Apple Butter Cheesecake blends the warm spice of cinnamon with the smoothness of cream cheese. Featuring a graham cracker crust and a filling infused with apple butter, it’s an easy-to-make dessert perfect for any occasion. Keywords: Apple butter cheesecake, cinnamon graham crust, fall desserts.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes (includes chilling time)
- Yield: 10-12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- Crust:
- 2 cups (204 g) graham cracker crumbs
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, melted
- Filling:
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 2 cups (476 g) heavy cream
- ¾ teaspoon lemon juice
- ½ cup (120 g) apple butter
Instructions
- Prepare the crust:
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, cinnamon, and melted butter.
- Press into the bottom of a springform pan. Chill in the refrigerator.
- Make the filling:
- Beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add heavy cream and beat until thick and creamy.
- Stir in lemon juice and apple butter.
- Pour the filling over the crust and smooth the top.
- Chill:
- Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or until set.
Notes
- You can top the cheesecake with extra apple butter or whipped cream for added flavor.
- For a firmer texture, you can freeze the cheesecake for about 1 hour before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 23g
- Sodium: 190mg
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