Apple Butter Cheesecake Recipe
Introduction
Apple Butter Cheesecake is a delightful dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the warm, spiced flavor of apple butter. It’s a perfect treat for fall gatherings or any time you crave a comforting sweet.
Ingredients
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup apple butter
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and prepare your crust in a 9-inch springform pan.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the apple butter and sugar and mix until well combined.
- Step 3: Add the eggs one at a time, beating gently after each addition until just incorporated.
- Step 4: Pour the batter evenly over the prepared crust.
- Step 5: Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly golden.
- Step 6: Remove from the oven and let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Tips & Variations
- Use a water bath to bake the cheesecake for a smoother texture and to prevent cracking.
- Try adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to complement the apple butter’s flavor.
- For a gluten-free option, use a graham cracker crust made from gluten-free cookies.
Storage
Store the cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften slightly. You can also freeze the cheesecake for up to 2 months; thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use homemade apple butter for this cheesecake?
Yes, homemade apple butter works beautifully and adds a personal touch. Just ensure it’s smooth and well-cooked to avoid excess moisture in the cheesecake.
What can I use instead of apple butter?
If you don’t have apple butter, you can substitute with apple sauce or a fruit preserve like spiced pear or pumpkin for a similar seasonal flavor.
PrintApple Butter Cheesecake Recipe
This Apple Butter Cheesecake combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the warm, spiced flavor of apple butter, creating a perfect dessert for fall or any time you crave a fruit-infused treat. The smooth, luscious filling sits atop a buttery crust, baked to perfection until set and ready to impress your guests or family.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup apple butter
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix well until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create the crust layer.
- Make the filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add sugar and continue to beat until well combined. Mix in the apple butter until fully incorporated. Add eggs one at a time, beating gently after each addition until the batter is smooth and homogeneous.
- Pour the batter over the crust: Carefully spread the apple butter cheesecake batter over the prepared crust in the springform pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake the cheesecake: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Place the cheesecake in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is just slightly jiggly but not liquid. Avoid overbaking to keep the cheesecake creamy.
- Cool and chill: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow it to set fully before serving.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs to ensure a smooth batter without lumps.
- Do not overmix the batter to avoid incorporating too much air, which can cause cracks.
- A water bath can be used during baking to prevent cracking, but is optional.
- Apple butter adds sweetness and spice; you may adjust sugar to taste.
- For easy removal, run a knife around the edge of the pan before unlocking the springform.
Keywords: Apple Butter Cheesecake, cheesecake recipe, fall dessert, creamy cheesecake, apple dessert
