No bake Apple pie cheesecake

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If you love the flavors of classic apple pie but crave the creamy, decadent texture of cheesecake, this No bake Apple pie cheesecake recipe will quickly become your new favorite dessert. Imagine everything you adore about autumn—spiced apples, buttery crumble, and warm, comforting notes of cinnamon—but in a luscious, chilled, no-bake cheesecake form that’s perfect year-round. Whether you’re looking for an impressive holiday centerpiece, an easy yet stunning dessert for a family gathering, or simply a way to satisfy both your cheesecake and apple pie cravings without ever turning on your oven, this recipe delivers.

No bake Apple pie cheesecake takes the best of both worlds: the sophisticated tang of silky cream cheese and the homey warmth of cinnamon-scented apples. The show-stopping combo is layered over a toothsome crust made from crushed Biscoff (or spiced cookies) and finished with a brown sugar-cinnamon crumble for that coveted pie texture. Best of all, your kitchen stays cool, and you won’t be waiting on any tricky bakes—just assemble, chill, and enjoy the delights of a bakery-worthy dessert from the comfort of home.

This recipe is delightfully approachable for beginners while still offering creative room for seasoned bakers. And for busy home cooks, the make-ahead nature of no bake Apple pie cheesecake means it’s ready and waiting when you are. Sweet celebration, cozy comfort, and undeniable wow-factor all come together in every bite. Read on to discover why this dreamy dessert should be next on your “must bake”—or rather, “must make”—list.

Why You’ll Love No bake Apple pie cheesecake

No bake Apple pie cheesecake isn’t just another dessert—it’s a conversation starter, a dinner party centerpiece, and a sweet treat you’ll look forward to again and again. Here’s why this incredible mashup is bound to become a staple in your recipe box:

• No Oven Required: Beat the heat in your kitchen—especially during summer—or free up oven space during the holidays. No bake Apple pie cheesecake chills to perfection in your fridge.
• Rich and Creamy: The cheesecake filling is cloud-like and tangy, balancing the spiced apple filling and giving the classic flavors a modern, irresistible twist.
• Apple Pie Nostalgia: Caramelized apples, cinnamon, and a buttery crumble layer make every bite reminiscent of your favorite homemade apple pie––minus any pastry fuss!
• Versatile and Crowd-Pleasing: This dessert is easy to slice and transports beautifully. Its nostalgic flavors win over kids and sophisticated palates alike.
• Can Be Made Ahead: Because it needs to set in the fridge, no bake Apple pie cheesecake is ideal for planning ahead, making your entertaining stress-free.
• Customizable: Whether you prefer tart apples, different spice blends, or even a gluten-free base, this no-bake cheesecake is easily adapted to your taste and needs.

Once you serve up a forkful of creamy, cinnamon-kissed cheesecake with melt-in-your-mouth apples and that signature crumbly topping, you’ll understand why no bake Apple pie cheesecake deserves a permanent spot on your dessert rotation.

Ingredients for No bake Apple pie cheesecake

The beauty of no bake Apple pie cheesecake lies not only in its flavor but in the balance of straightforward, easy-to-find ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for each delicious layer:

• For the Crumble:
• 70g brown sugar (adds depth and a caramel note)
• 20g granulated sugar (for sweetness and slight crisp texture)
• 60g soft butter (brings richness and helps bind)
• 90g all-purpose flour (for structure)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon (essential warm, spicy note)

• For the Apple Filling:
• 5 medium apples, peeled and sliced (choose crisp varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a balance of tart and sweet)
• Peel of 1 lemon (adds a bright, fresh aroma)
• 2 star anise (brings a unique hint of licorice-like autumnal aroma)
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon (for robust spice)
• 60g butter (richness and flavor)
• 70g water (to soften and simmer the apples)
• 120g brown sugar (boosts caramelization and sweetness)
• 1 tsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp cold water (to thicken the apple mixture slightly)

• For the Cheesecake Filling:
• 500g cream cheese (choose full-fat for best texture)
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon (adds gentle warmth)
• 200g heavy cream (35% fat) (for smoothness and a light, fluffy texture)
• 35g granulated sugar (sweetness and balance)
• 70% of the cooked apple filling (blends into the cheesecake for intense apple flavor)

• For the Crust:
• 200g crushed Biscoff or spiced cookies (for a toasty, aromatic base)
• 45g melted butter (to bind and add flavor)

Having these ingredients at the ready ensures a harmonious dessert where each bite combines creamy, spiced, and crunchy elements. Gather your ingredients, and you’re halfway to a fabulous no bake Apple pie cheesecake!

Necessary Tools

Making this No bake Apple pie cheesecake is simple, and you likely have most of the necessary tools already in your kitchen arsenal. Having the right equipment will make each step smooth and efficient. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 17-cm Springform Pan: Essential for easy removal and perfectly round cheesecake slices. If you don’t have this size, any similarly sized springform will work.
• Mixing Bowls: One large and several medium-sized bowls for mixing crumble, cheesecake filling, and apple filling separately.
• Saucepan: For simmering the apple filling until it reaches that lovely, jammy consistency.
• Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: To whip the cream to soft peaks and blend the cheesecake filling until ultra-smooth. A whisk can work in a pinch but requires more effort.
• Rubber Spatula: For folding the whipped cream into the cheesecake mixture and ensuring every last bit is incorporated.
• Wooden Spoon or Heatproof Stirrer: For toasting the crumble and stirring the apple filling as it cooks.
• Blender or Food Processor: Optional, for crushing Biscoff cookies into a fine crumb (you may also use a rolling pin and a ziplock bag).
• Measuring Cups and Spoons & Kitchen Scale: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect texture. A digital kitchen scale is highly recommended but not essential.
• Knife and Peeler: For prepping the apples and lemon peel.

With these tools on hand, you’ll breeze through the steps, ensuring your no bake Apple pie cheesecake is every bit as gorgeous and delicious as any bakery creation.

Ingredient Additions & Substitutions

One of the best things about No bake Apple pie cheesecake is its inherent versatility. Whether you’re adjusting for dietary needs, making the most of what you have on hand, or simply eager to experiment, here are a variety of ideas for ingredient swaps, enhancements, and customizations:

Apples:

• Type: While Granny Smith apples are traditional for their tartness and firmness, you can use any variety you love—Honeycrisp offers sweetness and great texture, while Braeburn or Pink Lady apples provide balanced flavor. Feel free to use a combination for added complexity.
• Pre-cooked or Canned: In a pinch, high-quality canned apple pie filling can work, though fresh apples are still recommended for best flavor and texture. Adjust sugar as needed since pre-made fillings can be sweeter.

Spices:

• Cinnamon-Free: Not a fan of cinnamon? Try ground allspice, nutmeg, or cardamom for a unique twist.
• Extra Spice: Enhance fall flavors by adding a pinch of ground ginger, cloves, or even a dash of black pepper for warmth.

Crust Options:

• Cookie Choices: No Biscoff? Substitute with graham crackers, gingersnaps, digestive biscuits, or gluten-free cookies for dietary needs.
• Nutty Touch: Add a handful of finely chopped pecans or walnuts to your crust for a crunchy bite and a hint of nuttiness.

Cheesecake Filling:

• Dairy-Free Substitutes: Use vegan cream cheese and whipped coconut cream as alternatives to regular cream cheese and heavy cream. Make sure your cookies and butter (or use plant-based butter) are also dairy-free for a fully vegan version.
• Lower-Fat Option: Light cream cheese will work, but the filling will not be quite as rich or smooth.
• Sweeteners: Swap granulated sugar for coconut sugar, honey, or maple syrup in the filling, keeping in mind that liquid sweeteners may slightly alter the texture.

Apple Filling:

• Flavor Boost: Add a splash of vanilla extract or a spoonful of apple butter to the filling for an extra pop of flavor.
• Zest: Use orange zest instead of lemon for another citrus note, or add a teaspoon of lemon juice for a tangier finish.

Thickening Agents:

• Cornstarch Alternative: Substitute potato starch or arrowroot powder if desired.

Crumble:

• Oats: Add in 2–3 tablespoons of rolled oats for extra texture in your crumble.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend and certified gluten-free oats if needed.

Toppings:

• Caramel Drizzle: Add a generous drizzle of caramel sauce on top for true decadence.
• Fresh Fruit: Top with fresh apple slices, pomegranate seeds, or chopped nuts for added color and crunch.
• Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of cinnamon ice cream takes each slice over the top.

These additions and substitutions allow you to personalize your no bake Apple pie cheesecake however you like—whether you’re accommodating allergies, experimenting with flavors, or simply using up what’s in your pantry. Let your creativity shine while still enjoying every classic, comforting bite.

How to Make No bake Apple pie cheesecake

You’re just a few simple steps away from enjoying this decadent, flavor-packed no-bake Apple pie cheesecake, with all the cozy, spiced comfort of apple pie wrapped in a sweet, creamy cheesecake package. Here’s an easy-to-follow guide to assembling your new favorite dessert.

Step 1: Prepare the Crumble

Combine the brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, soft butter, and all-purpose flour in a medium mixing bowl. Use a fork or your fingers to work everything together until you have a crumbly, damp mixture. Warm a non-stick pan over medium heat, and toast the mixture gently for 3–4 minutes, stirring often, until the crumble starts to turn golden-brown and your kitchen fills with the aroma of caramelized sugar and spice. Set the crumble aside on a plate to cool completely while you prepare the next components.

Step 2: Make the Apple Filling

Place the peeled and sliced apples into a medium saucepan. Add the lemon peel, star anise, ground cinnamon, butter, water, and brown sugar. Stir everything gently and bring to a soft simmer over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10–12 minutes or until the apples are tender and beautifully aromatic. Remove the lemon peel and star anise pods. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water, then stir this slurry into the apple mixture. Continue cooking for another 2–3 minutes, until slightly thickened and glossy. Allow most of the apple filling to cool to room temperature before moving on, reserving about 30% to use as your final topping.

Step 3: Blend the Cheesecake Filling

Into a large mixing bowl, add the cream cheese, ground cinnamon, and cooled apple filling (using about 70% of what you prepared in Step 2). Blend with a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and granulated sugar together until soft peaks form—be patient here, as the whipped cream will help give your cheesecake filling the right lift and lightness. Use a rubber spatula to gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, working slowly to keep the filling airy and smooth.

Step 4: Make and Press the Crust

Crush your Biscoff or spiced cookies to a uniform crumb—using a food processor or sealed bag and rolling pin. Add the melted butter to your crumbs and mix well to combine, ensuring each crumb is coated and the mixture holds together when you squeeze some in your palm. Press this cookie crust evenly and firmly into the bottom of your prepared 17cm springform pan. A flat-bottomed glass or measuring cup helps you pack it down firmly to create a stable base for your layers.

Step 5: Layer the Cheesecake, Apples & Crumble

Dollop half of the creamy cheesecake mixture over the prepared crust, smoothing the surface. Add a generous layer of the cooled apple filling (from Step 2) and sprinkle a portion of the crumble on top for added texture. Spread the remaining cheesecake mixture over this layer, carefully smoothing the top with a spatula for a picture-perfect finish.

Step 6: Chill the Cheesecake

Cover the assembled cheesecake lightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, or ideally overnight. This set time allows the flavors to marry and ensures the cheesecake is firm enough to slice neatly and serve.

Step 7: Finish & Serve

Just before serving, warm the reserved portion of the apple filling gently on the stove or in the microwave until it’s just heated through. Spoon the glistening apples over the top of your cheesecake. Sprinkle extra crumble on top for maximum apple pie flavor and an irresistible finish. Unmold your cheesecake from the pan, slice, and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

This luscious No bake Apple pie cheesecake begs to be the star at any table—whether you’re planning a festive family feast or a simple weekend treat. Here are some inspired ways to serve it:

• Family Gatherings: Its familiar, comforting flavors make it a hit at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any cozy family meal.
• Seasonal Spread: Add a few thinly sliced fresh apples, a sprinkle of chopped toasted nuts, or an extra dusting of cinnamon for dramatic flair.

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