Are you ready to experience the ultimate fall dessert? This Apple Butter Cheesecake recipe brings together the creamy richness of classic cheesecake with the spicy-sweet flavor of homemade apple butter. Each bite of this dessert is a deliciously comforting blend of tangy, creamy cheesecake and the autumnal warmth of spiced apples. If you love cheesecake and apple pie, you're in for a treat! Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about making this incredible Apple Butter Cheesecake from scratch, and don’t forget to check out our serving and presentation tips to wow your guests!

What is Apple Butter Cheesecake?
Apple Butter Cheesecake is a luscious dessert made by layering a creamy cheesecake with spiced apple butter. Apple butter, a concentrated form of apples cooked down with sugar and spices, adds a flavorful and slightly tangy note that contrasts beautifully with the smooth, creamy texture of the cheesecake. The result is a dessert that’s not overly sweet but deeply satisfying, perfect for fall gatherings, holiday meals, or simply when you want a special treat.
Ingredients List for Apple Butter Cheesecake
Before we dive into the detailed instructions, it’s important to gather all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for the crust, filling, and topping:
For the Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 16 full sheets of graham crackers)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, but recommended for extra flavor)
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 24 ounces (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ cup apple butter (store-bought or homemade)
For the Apple Butter Topping:
- 1 cup apple butter
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional, for a bit more sweetness)
For Garnish (Optional but Highly Recommended):
- Whipped cream or crème fraîche
- A sprinkle of ground cinnamon
- Thin apple slices for decoration
Substitutions and Variations
Here are a few ideas if you need to make substitutions or want to try variations on this Apple Butter Cheesecake recipe:
- Crust Substitutes: Instead of graham crackers, you could use ginger snaps or even digestive biscuits for a different flavor profile. Crushed oatmeal cookies also make a great alternative.
- Cream Cheese Alternatives: If you want a lighter version, you can substitute part of the cream cheese with Neufchâtel cheese, which has less fat but still maintains the cheesecake’s creamy texture.
- Apple Butter Variations: You can use store-bought apple butter, but if you have the time, making your own apple butter from scratch can elevate the recipe. You could also try a pear butter for a unique twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free graham crackers or cookies for the crust to make this recipe gluten-free.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s get into the process of making this delectable Apple Butter Cheesecake. Make sure to follow these steps carefully to achieve the best results.
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and set it aside.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. If using, stir in the cinnamon. Mix until the crumbs are well coated.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the springform pan, creating an even layer. You can use the bottom of a flat measuring cup to press the crust down firmly.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove and let cool while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.
- Add in the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the sour cream and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Gently fold in the apple butter until it’s fully incorporated into the cheesecake batter.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Place the springform pan in a large roasting pan. Carefully pour boiling water into the roasting pan until it reaches about halfway up the sides of the springform pan (this is known as a water bath and helps prevent the cheesecake from cracking).
- Bake the cheesecake for 55-65 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour with the door slightly ajar. This slow cooling process helps prevent cracks.
- After cooling in the oven, transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best results.
Step 4: Add the Apple Butter Topping
- Once the cheesecake is completely chilled, spread a generous layer of apple butter on top.
- Sprinkle with a bit of cinnamon and, if you like, drizzle a bit of maple syrup for added sweetness and shine.
How to Cook Apple Butter Cheesecake: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking this Apple Butter Cheesecake involves multiple steps that you need to pay attention to for the best results. First, ensuring your ingredients (especially the cream cheese) are at room temperature will help create a smooth, lump-free filling. Second, don’t skip the water bath—this step ensures that the cheesecake bakes evenly and helps avoid cracks. Finally, remember to cool the cheesecake slowly in the oven and then chill it thoroughly in the fridge to allow it to set completely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Water Bath: This might lead to a cracked surface. The water bath keeps the heat gentle and even.
- Overbeating the Batter: Mixing too much can incorporate air into the cheesecake batter, which may cause it to rise and crack.
- Not Chilling Long Enough: Cheesecake needs time to set properly. Rushing this step will result in a soft, runny cheesecake.
- Cutting It Too Early: Always chill the cheesecake for at least 4 hours before serving, but overnight chilling yields the best texture.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Apple Butter Cheesecake is as visually appealing as it is delicious. To make it look as good as it tastes, follow these serving and presentation tips:
How to Serve Apple Butter Cheesecake
- Use a hot knife (dip the knife in hot water, then dry it) to slice the cheesecake for clean, precise cuts.
- Serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or crème fraîche for added richness.
- For extra flair, dust a little cinnamon or nutmeg over the top of the cheesecake.
Presentation Ideas for Apple Butter Cheesecake
- Garnish the top with thinly sliced fresh apples, arranged in a fan shape or as a border around the edge.
- A drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of crushed candied nuts can elevate the appearance and add complementary flavors.
- Serve on a white plate to contrast the rich, dark color of the apple butter topping.
Apple Butter Cheesecake Recipe Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure all your cold ingredients, like cream cheese and eggs, are at room temperature. This ensures smooth mixing.
- Homemade Apple Butter: If you want to go the extra mile, making homemade apple butter is simple and adds a personalized touch to your cheesecake.
- Water Bath: Wrapping the springform pan in aluminum foil before placing it in the water bath helps prevent water from seeping into the cheesecake.
- Overnight Chill: For the best texture and flavor, let your cheesecake chill overnight in the fridge.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I freeze Apple Butter Cheesecake?
Yes! After the cheesecake has cooled and set in the refrigerator, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
2. What can I use if I don’t have a springform pan?
You can use a deep dish pie pan, but you won’t be able to remove the sides as easily. Just be sure to grease the pan well and serve the slices directly from the pan.
3. Can I use a different type of butter for the crust?
Yes, you can use salted butter if that’s what you have on hand, but reduce the added sugar slightly to compensate for the extra salt.
4. How do I know when the cheesecake is done baking?
The edges should be set, but the center should still have a slight jiggle. It will firm up as it cools.
Conclusion
This Apple Butter Cheesecake is the perfect fall dessert that combines the best of both cheesecake and apple pie flavors. Its creamy texture and spiced apple topping make it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Whether you're hosting a holiday meal or simply indulging in a weekend baking project, this recipe is sure to impress. Be sure to follow the steps carefully, take your time with the water bath and chilling, and don't forget to add your personal touch with garnish and presentation. Enjoy!
PrintApple Butter Cheesecake Recipe
This Apple Butter Cheesecake recipe blends the rich flavors of spiced apple butter with creamy cheesecake, creating a perfect fall dessert. With ingredients like cream cheese, apple butter, and a buttery graham cracker crust, this cheesecake is simple yet irresistible. Enjoy this dessert for holidays or any cozy night in.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 5 hours (includes chilling time)
- Yield: 10-12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Butter
- Cream cheese
- Sugar
- Apple butter
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- Cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare the graham cracker crust by mixing crumbs and butter.
- Press the mixture into a springform pan and bake briefly.
- In a bowl, blend cream cheese, sugar, and apple butter until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla and cinnamon.
- Pour the filling over the crust and bake until set.
- Let cool, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
Notes
- Chill for at least 4 hours for best results.
- Optional: garnish with caramel or whipped cream for extra sweetness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cheesecake)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 280mg
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