Save A luscious, creamy cheesecake layered with spiced apples and a hint of bourbon, all atop a crisp graham cracker crust—perfect for festive gatherings or a cozy dessert.
I first created this cinnamon apple bourbon cheesecake for a family Thanksgiving, and it quickly became everyone's favorite dessert. Its comforting flavors and impressive appearance always receive rave reviews.
Ingredients
- Crust: 200 g (2 cups) graham cracker crumbs, 80 g (6 tbsp) unsalted butter (melted), 2 tbsp granulated sugar, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- Spiced Apples: 3 medium apples (peeled, cored, diced), 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 3 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, pinch of salt, 2 tbsp bourbon
- Cheesecake Filling: 900 g (32 oz) cream cheese (softened), 200 g (1 cup) granulated sugar, 3 large eggs, 180 ml (3/4 cup) sour cream, 2 tbsp all-purpose flour, 2 tsp vanilla extract, 2 tbsp bourbon
- Topping: Reserved spiced apples, optional whipped cream, optional caramel sauce
Instructions
- Prep Pan:
- Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F). Line bottom of 23 cm (9-inch) springform pan with parchment paper and lightly grease sides.
- Prepare Crust:
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, granulated sugar, and cinnamon until combined. Press firmly into bottom of prepared pan. Bake 10 minutes, then remove and set aside.
- Spiced Apples:
- In skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Cook 5 to 7 minutes until apples softened. Add bourbon, cook 1 minute more. Remove from heat and let cool. Reserve 1/3 for topping.
- Cheesecake Filling:
- In large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Blend in sour cream, flour, vanilla, and bourbon just until combined.
- Fold Apples:
- Gently fold remaining 2/3 spiced apples into cheesecake batter. Pour filling over crust and smooth top.
- Bake:
- Bake 55–60 minutes, until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly. Turn off oven, crack door, and let cheesecake cool inside 1 hour.
- Chill:
- Remove from oven, cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Serve:
- Before serving, top with reserved spiced apples, whipped cream, or caramel sauce as desired.
Save Sharing this cheesecake after a special dinner always sparks lively conversation and joy around the table. Kids love helping with the apple topping, making it a memorable family baking experience.
Required Tools
23 cm (9-inch) springform pan, electric mixer or stand mixer, mixing bowls, skillet, spatula
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cream cheese, butter, sour cream), eggs, gluten (crust), and alcohol (bourbon). Double-check packaged ingredients for nut or gluten traces if allergies are a concern.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 370 calories, 23 g total fat, 34 g carbohydrates, 6 g protein
Save This cheesecake makes for a showstopping dessert at any occasion—don't forget to enjoy each creamy, spiced bite.
Recipe Help
- → Can I substitute bourbon in this dessert?
Yes, you can replace bourbon with apple juice for an alcohol-free version while still preserving the fruity aroma.
- → What type of apples should I use?
Choose firm varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji for ideal texture and balance of sweetness and tartness.
- → How do I ensure my cheesecake is creamy?
Use softened cream cheese, mix until very smooth, and avoid overbaking to retain a silky, moist texture.
- → Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely. Chill the cheesecake overnight for best flavor and structure before adding toppings just before serving.
- → Are there any alternative toppings?
Try whipped cream, caramel sauce, extra spiced apples, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for a different finish.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Cover and refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices and thaw in the fridge.