Description

This Apple Butter Cheesecake is a creamy, rich dessert perfect for fall and holiday celebrations. Featuring a spiced apple butter-infused filling on a graham cracker crust, it combines smooth cream cheese with warm cinnamon and nutmeg flavors. Topped with additional apple butter and optional garnishes like whipped cream, caramel drizzle, or pecans, this decadent cheesecake offers a deliciously silky texture and a festive twist on a classic treat.

Ingredients

Scale

For the crust:

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the filling:

24 oz cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup sour cream
3/4 cup apple butter
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

For the topping (optional):

1/2 cup apple butter
Whipped cream
Caramel drizzle
Chopped pecans

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat and prepare crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and wrap the bottom in foil if you plan to use a water bath for baking.
Make the crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix well and press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then remove and let cool completely.
Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add granulated sugar and brown sugar, beating until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Then beat in vanilla extract, sour cream, apple butter, cinnamon, and nutmeg until the mixture is fully combined and smooth.
Assemble and bake: Pour the filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan. If using a water bath, place the pan inside a large roasting pan and carefully add hot water halfway up the sides of the springform pan. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the center is just set and slightly jiggly.
Cool the cheesecake: Turn off the oven and crack the oven door open. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour to prevent cracking. Afterward, remove it from the oven and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set.
Add toppings and serve: Before serving, spread a thin layer of apple butter over the top of the cheesecake. Optionally garnish with whipped cream, caramel drizzle, or chopped pecans for added flavor and texture. Slice and enjoy!

Notes

For best results, bring all ingredients to room temperature before mixing to ensure a smooth filling.
Using a water bath helps prevent cracks in the cheesecake and results in a creamier texture.
Apple butter adds a rich fall flavor and silky texture, making this cheesecake perfect for holiday gatherings.
Optional toppings like whipped cream and caramel drizzle enhance the dessert’s decadence.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American