If you’re looking for a dessert that perfectly balances creamy richness and fruity freshness, Bavarian Apple Cheesecake is the answer. With its buttery crust, silky cream cheese filling, and caramelized apple topping, this classic treat brings Bavarian charm to your table. Here's how you can make it step-by-step.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuits)
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
For the filling:
- 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
For the apple topping:
- 3 medium apples (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch dissolved in 2 tablespoons water
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Instructions
1. Prepare the crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until evenly combined.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch (23 cm) springform pan to form a firm crust.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool while you prepare the filling.
2. Make the cheesecake filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream until fully incorporated.
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
3. Bake the cheesecake:
- Place the springform pan in a water bath (a larger pan filled with hot water to halfway up the cheesecake pan) to prevent cracking.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the center is just set but still slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven, crack the door slightly, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour to prevent sudden temperature changes.
4. Prepare the apple topping:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the apple slices and sauté for 3–5 minutes until softened.
- Sprinkle the sugar and cinnamon over the apples and stir to coat. Cook for another 2 minutes.
- Add the lemon juice and dissolved cornstarch. Stir until the sauce thickens and coats the apples.
5. Assemble and chill:
- Once the cheesecake has cooled to room temperature, spoon the apple topping evenly over the surface.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to let the flavors meld.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve your Bavarian Apple Cheesecake chilled, garnished with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for added elegance.
- Pair it with a cup of coffee or a glass of Riesling for a true Bavarian-inspired experience.
Tips for Success
- Use room-temperature ingredients for the filling to ensure a smooth, lump-free mixture.
- If you don’t have a water bath, place a pan of water on the lower rack of your oven to create steam.
- For extra indulgence, drizzle caramel sauce over the apple topping before serving.
Enjoy this Bavarian Apple Cheesecake as a centerpiece for your next gathering or a delightful dessert to end a special meal. It's a recipe you'll want to make again and again!
