If you love the comfort of fall flavors wrapped in a luscious, creamy dessert, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Apple Butter Cheesecake Recipe. It takes the classic richness of cheesecake and elevates it with the warm spiced notes of apple butter, cinnamon, and nutmeg, creating a divine treat that feels like a cozy embrace in every bite. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday gathering or a special weekend indulgence, this cheesecake is sure to become a new favorite you’ll want to make again and again.

Apple Butter Cheesecake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the first step to nailing this Apple Butter Cheesecake Recipe. Each ingredient plays an important role in building layers of texture and flavor, from the buttery crust to the creamy, spiced filling that makes this dessert unforgettable.

Graham cracker crumbs (1 ½ cups): Provides a perfectly crunchy, buttery base for the cheesecake.
Unsalted butter, melted (½ cup): Binds the crumbs together and adds richness without extra saltiness.
Apple butter (1 cup): The star ingredient, giving the cheesecake a deep apple flavor with warm spices.
Cream cheese, softened (16 oz): Creates the creamy, smooth texture that makes cheesecake so irresistible.
Granulated sugar (¾ cup): Sweetens the cheesecake just enough to balance the tang and spice.
Vanilla extract (2 tsp): Enhances all the flavors with a subtle, sweet aroma.
Large eggs (3, room temperature): Provide structure and richness to the filling, helping it set perfectly.
Ground cinnamon (1 tsp): Adds a warm, fragrant spice that complements the apple butter beautifully.
Ground nutmeg (½ tsp): Lends a subtle spicy depth to round out the flavor profile.

How to Make Apple Butter Cheesecake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Mixing the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter forms the foundation of the cheesecake. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to ensure it holds together well. Bake the crust for 8 to 10 minutes until golden and fragrant, then set it aside to cool while you whip up the creamy filling.

Step 2: Make the Filling

Beat the softened cream cheese until it’s completely smooth and free of lumps—a silky base is crucial for the best cheesecake texture. Then add sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and the star apple butter. Mix these together until creamy and evenly combined. The warm spices and apple butter blend to create a flavor that feels both familiar and delightfully new.

Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs

Adding eggs one at a time on low speed is key to keeping the filling smooth and lump-free. This slow mixing also prevents air bubbles that could cause cracks in the cheesecake. Aim for a consistent, creamy batter that will bake evenly and set beautifully.

Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake

Pour the rich filling over your cooled crust and smooth out the top. Bake the cheesecake for 50 to 60 minutes until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly when you gently shake the pan. This gentle jiggle ensures a luscious, creamy texture rather than a dry or rubbery one.

Step 5: Cool Properly

Once the baking time is up, turn off the oven but leave the cheesecake inside to cool for about an hour. This slow cooling prevents cracks and helps the cheesecake set perfectly. After it’s cooled in the oven, remove it and let it chill completely in the fridge before serving.

How to Serve Apple Butter Cheesecake Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like a dusting of cinnamon or a few thin apple slices on top highlight the flavors beautifully. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence. These touches don’t just add visual appeal but also boost each bite with extra richness or fresh brightness.

Side Dishes

This Apple Butter Cheesecake pairs wonderfully with warm spiced beverages like chai tea or mulled cider. You might also serve it alongside a light apple compote or tangy cranberry sauce to play off the rich sweetness of the cheesecake and keep your palate refreshed.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, serve the cheesecake in individual portions using mini springform pans or as cheesecake parfaits with layers of graham cracker crumbs, cheesecake filling, and apple butter. This makes for an eye-catching presentation that’s perfect for parties or intimate gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Apple Butter Cheesecake Recipe slices keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to five days. Cover them tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to preserve moisture and prevent the cheesecake from absorbing other odors.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this cheesecake at a later time, it freezes wonderfully. Wrap the whole cheesecake or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. It can be stored for up to three months, making it a convenient make-ahead dessert.

Reheating

When ready to enjoy your frozen cheesecake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. There’s no need to reheat cheesecake before serving, but if you prefer, let it sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes to soften slightly for a creamier texture.

FAQs

Can I use regular apples instead of apple butter?

While fresh apples offer great flavor, apple butter is uniquely concentrated and spiced, giving this cheesecake its signature taste and creamy texture. Using regular apples will change the texture and flavor quite a bit, so apple butter is best for this recipe.

Do I need a springform pan to make this cheesecake?

A springform pan is highly recommended because it makes removing the delicate cheesecake much easier without damaging the crust or filling. If you don’t have one, consider lining a regular pan with parchment paper for easier removal.

Why do I need to bake the crust before adding the filling?

Baking the crust helps it set firmly so it won’t become soggy once you add the filling. It also enhances that delicious toasty flavor that contrasts perfectly with the creamy cheesecake.

How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?

To avoid cracks, bake the cheesecake at a steady, moderate temperature and avoid overmixing. The gradual cooling step inside the turned-off oven is also crucial to prevent sudden temperature changes that cause cracks.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?

For best results, stick with full-fat cream cheese. Low-fat versions tend to have more water content, which can affect the texture and richness of your cheesecake. The full-fat version gives you that classic, creamy mouthfeel.

Final Thoughts

There’s something wonderfully comforting and festive about this Apple Butter Cheesecake Recipe that makes it the perfect dessert to share with loved ones. Its rich, creamy texture paired with the warm, spiced apple butter flavor is an absolute crowd-pleaser that’s both simple to make and beautifully impressive. Give it a try, and I’m sure it’ll become a delicious tradition you’ll look forward to baking year after year.

Apple Butter Cheesecake Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.2 from 89 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Apple Butter Cheesecake combines the warm flavors of apple butter and classic spices with a creamy cheesecake texture, all nestled on a buttery graham cracker crust. It’s a perfect dessert for fall gatherings or any time you crave a comforting, spiced treat with a smooth, rich finish.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
½ cup unsalted butter, melted

Filling

1 cup apple butter
16 oz cream cheese, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 tsp vanilla extract
3 large eggs, room temperature
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground nutmeg

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the crust and filling.
Prepare Crust: In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until the mixture is well combined and holds together when pressed.
Form Crust: Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to form an even layer that will serve as the cheesecake’s base.
Bake Crust: Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes until it turns golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely before adding the filling.
Beat Cream Cheese: Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy, creating a lump-free base for the cheesecake filling.
Add Flavorings: Add granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and apple butter to the cream cheese. Mix until all ingredients are fully incorporated and creamy.
Incorporate Eggs: Add eggs one at a time on a low mixer speed to avoid lumps, gently blending each egg fully before adding the next.
Assemble Cheesecake: Pour the prepared filling evenly over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula for an even surface.
Bake Cheesecake: Bake for 50-60 minutes until the edges are set but the center remains slightly jiggly, indicative of a perfect cheesecake texture.
Cool Cheesecake: Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside to cool gradually for about an hour, which helps prevent cracking.
Remove and Chill: After cooling in the oven, remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and refrigerate until fully chilled and firm for serving.

Notes

Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs to ensure smooth mixing and prevent lumps.
Do not overbake; the slight jiggle in the center is key for a creamy texture after chilling.
Allow the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven to reduce the chance of cracks on the surface.
Apple butter adds moisture and flavor; substitute with spiced pumpkin butter for a seasonal twist.
Refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight for best texture and flavor.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American