If you love the comforting flavors of apple pie but want a refreshing twist that’s easy to make, you are going to adore this No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe. It combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the warm, spiced sweetness of apple pie in a single, luscious dessert. No oven needed means it’s perfect for when you want something dreamy without the heat or fuss, and it truly hits that cozy spot with every bite. Whether for a family gathering, a potluck, or just a special treat to share with friends, this recipe is about to become your new favorite indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe is how simple yet purposeful each ingredient is. Every component plays its part, from the buttery graham cracker crust providing a crunchy base to the perfectly spiced apple topping that makes this dessert feel like fall in a bite.
- Graham cracker crumbs: This is the foundation of the crust, offering a sweet crunch that holds everything together.
- Granulated sugar: Adds just enough sweetness to balance the crust’s flavor.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Brings moisture and richness, helping the crust firm up perfectly.
- Cream cheese, softened: The star ingredient for a smooth, creamy filling with that signature tangy cheesecake taste.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens and blends seamlessly into the cream cheese for silky texture.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor, adding warmth and depth.
- Heavy whipping cream: Whipped to stiff peaks, it lightens the filling, making it fluffy and airy.
- Apples, peeled and diced: Using tart varieties like Granny Smith keeps the topping bright and flavorful.
- Butter: Used to sauté the apples, enriching their natural sweetness.
- Brown sugar: Gives the apple topping a deep molasses sweetness that complements the spices.
- Ground cinnamon: A key spice that brings that classic apple pie flavor.
- Ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle warmth that balances the cinnamon perfectly.
- Lemon juice: Introduces a fresh zing to brighten the apple topping.
- Cornstarch: Thickens the apple mixture so it holds beautifully atop the cheesecake.
- Water: Helps dissolve the cornstarch for a smooth fruit glaze.
How to Make No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Make the Crust
Start by combining your graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter in a medium bowl. Mix until everything is evenly moistened and crumbly. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create an even layer. Pop the crust into the refrigerator to chill while you get started on your luscious cheesecake filling. This chilling step helps the crust set so it will hold together perfectly when you slice.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
Next, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s completely smooth and creamy—no lumps allowed! Adding powdered sugar and vanilla extract turns it into a sweet but tangy base that’s pure cheesecake bliss. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, which adds the fluffiness that makes this cheesecake so light. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture with care, preserving all those airy bubbles. Pour this dreamy filling over your chilled crust and smooth the surface. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours to let it set into that perfect cheesecake texture.
Step 3: Make the Apple Pie Topping
While the cheesecake chills, turn your attention to the apple pie topping, the magical finishing touch. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and then add diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Let the apples cook down for 5 to 7 minutes until tender but still holding their shape. To thicken, stir together cornstarch and water, then mix it in, cooking for another minute or two until the topping becomes glossy and just thick enough to spoon over the cheesecake. Set aside and allow to cool completely—this ensures your topping won’t melt into the cheesecake when added.
Step 4: Assemble the Cheesecake
Once your cheesecake has set and the apple topping has cooled, it’s time to bring everything together. Spoon the apple pie topping generously over the cheesecake layer, spreading it evenly for a beautiful presentation. Chill briefly if needed. Then slice yourself a piece, and get ready to enjoy all the creamy, spiced, buttery goodness in one wonderful dessert.
How to Serve No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your presentation by adding a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans on each slice. A light dusting of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce also complements the apple pie topping beautifully, creating layers of flavor that your guests will love.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake shines best on its own but pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot coffee or spiced chai tea, especially on chilly afternoons. For an extra special touch, serve alongside cinnamon-spiced baked apples or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to turn your dessert into a decadent feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe in individual mini jars or clear glasses for a charming, rustic look perfect for parties. You can also layer the filling and apple topping in parfait-style servings for a playful twist that lets every bite show off that delicious contrast of creamy cheesecake and warm apples.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your cheesecake, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to four days, keeping the flavors vibrant and the texture smooth. Be sure to cover the top well so the cheesecake doesn’t absorb other fridge aromas.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this cheesecake freezes beautifully. Wrap the whole cake or individual slices tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When frozen properly, it can last up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving for best results.
Reheating
Since this is a no-bake chilled cheesecake, reheating isn’t necessary or recommended. Simply take it out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 to 15 minutes before slicing—this makes each bite even creamier and more delicious.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of crust for this recipe?
Absolutely! While graham cracker crust is classic and delicious, you can use crushed digestive biscuits, ginger snaps, or even a nut-based crust for added texture and flavor. Just make sure to mix with butter to help it set properly.
What kinds of apples work best for the apple topping?
Tart and firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal because they hold their shape well during cooking and offer a nice balance of sweet and tangy flavors that complement the creamy cheesecake filling.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?
It’s a bit tricky due to the cream cheese and heavy cream, but you can experiment with dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream for the filling. Keep in mind the texture might vary, but the flavors can still be fantastic with some tweaks.
How long should I chill the cheesecake before adding the apple topping?
Chilling the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, helps it firm up perfectly. This way, the apple topping won’t sink in or make the filling runny once assembled.
Can I prepare the apple pie topping ahead of time?
Yes! The apple pie topping can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just be sure it cools completely before covering and chilling to maintain its perfect consistency when added to the cheesecake.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about this No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe that feels like a warm hug in dessert form. It’s simple enough to make on a busy day yet impressive enough for special occasions. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how the creamy cheesecake and spiced apple topping come together in every irresistible bite. Trust me, it’s a dessert that will keep everyone asking for seconds!
Print
No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake combines the creamy richness of a classic cheesecake with the warm, spiced flavors of apple pie. Featuring a crunchy graham cracker crust and a luscious cream cheese filling, topped with tender cinnamon-spiced apples, this dessert is perfect for any occasion and requires no oven baking.
Ingredients
Graham Cracker Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
Apple Pie Topping
- 3 large apples, peeled and diced (such as Granny Smith)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until the mixture is evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust layer. Place the crust in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the cheesecake filling.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly until combined. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture. Pour the filling over the chilled crust and smooth the surface with a spatula. Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or until fully set.
- Make the Apple Pie Topping: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples become tender. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then stir it into the apple mixture. Continue cooking for another 1 to 2 minutes until the topping thickens. Remove from heat and let the topping cool completely.
- Assemble the Cheesecake: Once the cheesecake has set, spoon the cooled apple pie topping evenly over the surface. Slice and serve chilled, enjoying the perfect blend of creamy cheesecake and warm apple pie flavors.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a balanced sweet-tart flavor.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the cheesecake filling.
- The cheesecake needs to refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
- Allow the apple topping to cool completely before adding it to prevent melting the cheesecake filling.
- For a firmer crust, you can chill it in the freezer for 15 minutes before adding the filling.
