We are not really dessert lovers, and most days the closest we come to indulging in something sweet is by having what I call a “night cookie,” a small treat before calling it a night. Still, and I know we are in the minority, every so often a dessert recipe catches my attention enough to make me expand my horizons by adding a true dessert to satisfy that sweet craving. This Creamy Apple Crumble Cheesecake is one of those recipes. I read the recipe several times before committing to making it, thinking about what a wonderful combination of flavors and textures it promised.
This new Creamy Apple Crumble Cheesecake has a rustic, homey twist that makes it feel special while still being comforting and festive. At its heart is a silky cream cheese filling layered with tender baked apples, all topped with a buttery crumble that delivers just the right amount of crunch. It is indulgent without being overwhelming, and it has the added benefit of being a do-ahead dessert, which means you can prepare it in advance and free up your time for dishes that require more attention on the day of your celebration.
When I finally decided to make the recipe, I simplified the process by substituting my own cream cheese filling from my Black and Blue Buttermilk Tart and used a store-bought apple pie filling, which turned out to be excellent. I baked it during the week a couple of weeks ago, and it quickly became our ‘night cookie’ until the very last slice was gone. It was so delicious that I added it to my list of tried-and-true desserts, and it has become my answer to the classic Thanksgiving pie.
I highly recommend this recipe and hope you consider adding it to your list of favorite recipes and maybe even substitute the tradiational pie on your Thanksgiving menu this year. It brings warmth, flavor, and a touch of indulgence to the table, and it might just become your new favorite tradition.
