Description
Creamy apple butter cheesecake delivers a delightful fusion of autumn spices and silky cream cheese on a crisp graham cracker crust. Seasonal comfort mingles with rich flavors, inviting you to savor each delectable slice of this irresistible dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 (8 ounces) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup apple butter
- 3 large eggs
Crust Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Topping and Seasoning Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Warm the oven to 325°F, preparing a stable cooking environment for the delicate cheesecake.
- Combine graham cracker crumbs with sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter, pressing the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to create a robust, aromatic crust.
- Using an electric mixer, whip cream cheese and sugar until achieving a velvety, lump-free consistency, then gently incorporate vanilla extract.
- Introduce eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition to ensure a smooth, integrated batter.
- Fold in apple butter, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, creating a rich, spiced flavor profile throughout the cheesecake mixture.
- Carefully pour the spiced filling over the prepared crust, ensuring an even distribution.
- Bake for 55-60 minutes, watching for a slight jiggle in the center that indicates perfect doneness while maintaining a set texture.
- Remove from oven and allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature, helping prevent surface cracking.
- Once cooled, generously spread additional apple butter across the top of the cheesecake for an extra layer of autumn-inspired flavor.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the cheesecake to set completely.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh whipped cream, thinly sliced apples, and a drizzle of caramel sauce before serving.
Notes
- Swap graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or oat-based cookies for a celiac-friendly version.
- Reduce sugar content by using natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit for a lower-calorie dessert option.
- Create a vegan adaptation by substituting cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese and using egg replacer.
- Prevent cheesecake cracking by placing a water bath underneath during baking and allowing gradual cooling at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 25 g
- Sodium: 310 mg
- Fat: 27 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 33 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg