As the aroma of cinnamon and baked apples wafted through my kitchen, I couldn’t help but smile—today, I was making a Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake! This delightful dessert strikes the perfect balance between creamy and crunchy, making it a must-try for both seasoned chefs and those newly embracing plant-based cooking. With only 30 minutes of hands-on prep time, this recipe is not just a delight to the senses but also a fantastic choice for anyone looking to impress friends and family. Not only is it a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also a healthier alternative to traditional cheesecakes, ensuring that you can indulge without the guilt. Are you ready to discover how to create this comforting vegan masterpiece that’s sure to elevate any gathering? Let’s dive in!
Why is Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake Irresistible?
Creamy, Dreamy Filling: The combination of silken tofu and vegan yogurt creates a luscious texture that's sure to satisfy your cravings.
Nutritious Indulgence: With only 290 calories per slice, this dessert is a guilt-free way to indulge while enjoying plant-based benefits.
Quick Prep Time: In just 30 minutes, you can have this amazing cheesecake ready to bake, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings or weeknight treats.
Captivating Aroma: The sweet scent of cinnamon and baked apples will make your kitchen feel like a cozy cafe!
Versatile Delight: Perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a festive celebration or a casual get-together, it’s sure to impress!
With so many reasons to love this dessert, you may also want to check out my Vegan Chocolate Mousse or Quick Vegan Brownies for more tasty treats!
Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake Ingredients
For the Crust
• Vegan cookies – 330 g for a crunchy and sweet base that holds everything together.
• Vegan butter – 150 g, melted for perfect binding and rich flavor.
For the Apple Filling
• Apples – 3 diced, bringing natural sweetness and delightful texture.
• Brown sugar – 50 g enhances the apple flavor with a rich, caramel-like sweetness.
• Cornstarch – 260 g thickens the filling for a luscious consistency.
• Cinnamon – 1 teaspoon for a warm and inviting spice that complements the apples.
For the Crumble Topping
• Oats – 250 g adds a wholesome crunch to the topping layer.
• Chopped nuts – ¾ cup for added texture and nutty flavor in the crumble.
• Flour – 150 g gives structure and helps to bind the topping.
• Maple syrup (or sugar) – 50 g for natural sweetness, enhancing the crumble’s flavor.
For the Cheesecake Filling
• Silken tofu – 150 g is the star ingredient providing creaminess without dairy.
• Vegan yogurt – 100 g adds a tangy flavor and a creamy texture to the filling.
• Lemon juice – 1 lemon, juiced, brightens up the flavors and balances sweetness.
• Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon brings a lovely aromatic essence to the cheesecake.
• Salt – 1 teaspoon enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
This Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a picture-perfect dessert for any occasion! Happy baking!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). This step is essential for ensuring your Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake bakes evenly. While the oven heats up, gather your ingredients to prepare the crust.
Step 2: Crush the Cookies
Take your vegan cookies and crush them into fine crumbs using a food processor or a rolling pin. Aim for a texture similar to sand, ensuring the crumbs are consistent. This will form the base of your crust, providing that delicious crunch you crave.
Step 3: Mix Crust Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed vegan cookies with the melted vegan butter. Mix until all the crumbs are coated and the mixture sticks together, resembling wet sand. Ensure everything is well incorporated to create a sturdy crust.
Step 4: Form the Crust
Press the cookie mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan, using the back of a measuring cup to create an even layer. Make sure it's compact and smooth to support the layers above it. Bake this crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
Step 5: Cook the Apples
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cornstarch. Stir frequently for about 8–10 minutes or until the apples have softened and are fragrant. Once cooked, remove from heat and allow them to cool slightly.
Step 6: Prepare Crumble Topping
In another bowl, mix together the oats, chopped nuts, flour, brown sugar, vegan butter, and cinnamon. Use your fingers or a fork to combine until the mixture resembles a crumbly texture. This will create the delightful topping for your Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake.
Step 7: Blend the Cheesecake Filling
In a high-speed blender or food processor, blend the silken tofu, vegan yogurt, maple syrup (or sugar), lemon juice, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed. This luscious filling will bring the cheesecake to life.
Step 8: Assemble the Cheesecake
Pour half of the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan, spreading it evenly. Then, layer the cooked apples on top of this filling, distributing them evenly. Pour the remaining cheesecake filling over the apples, ensuring it covers them completely.
Step 9: Add Crumble Topping
Sprinkle the crumble topping generously over the cheesecake layers. This will add a lovely texture and flavor contrast once baked. Make sure to evenly distribute the crumble for a consistent finish throughout the Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake.
Step 10: Bake the Cheesecake
Place the assembled cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for 55–60 minutes. Look for the edges to be set while the center has a slight jiggle. This visual cue indicates the dessert is perfectly baked and ready for cooling.
Step 11: Cool and Chill
After baking, allow the cheesecake to cool at room temperature for about an hour. This cooling period helps it set up properly. Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight. This step is crucial for the flavors to meld.
Step 12: Serve the Cheesecake
Once the cheesecake is fully chilled and set, carefully remove the sides of the springform pan. Slice into pieces and serve immediately. Each slice of your Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake will be a delight, ready to impress family and friends with its creamy, crunchy goodness!
Make Ahead Options
These Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake preparations are perfect for busy home cooks needing a time-saving dessert solution! You can prepare the crust and crumble topping up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness and prevent sogginess. Furthermore, you can also cook and cool the apple filling up to 3 days ahead of time, just make sure to refrigerate it in a covered container. When you’re ready to bake, layer the cheesecake filling on the crust, add the prepared apples, sprinkle the crumble topping, and bake as directed. By prepping these components in advance, you’ll have a delightful dessert ready with minimal last-minute effort!
Expert Tips for Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake
• Perfect Crust: Ensure you press the cookie mixture firmly into the pan to avoid a crumbly base. A tight crust creates a solid foundation for your Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake.
• Even Cooking: Slice your apples uniformly to ensure they cook evenly. This not only enhances the texture but also delivers a more delightful flavor in every bite.
• Chill Time Counts: Resist the temptation to skip refrigeration! Chilling the cheesecake for at least 4 hours (or overnight) allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring a rich taste.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter cheesecake, feel free to add a little more maple syrup or sugar to the filling. Just remember to balance flavors carefully to keep it divine.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cheesecake as it bakes; the edges should be set but the center may still wiggle a bit. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture, so check it closely.
How to Store and Freeze Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to keep it fresh and delicious.
Freezer: You can freeze the Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Thawing: To enjoy, simply transfer the cheesecake to the fridge to thaw overnight. It’s perfect for making ahead of time!
Reheating: If desired, you can serve slices cold or gently warm them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds for a cozy treat.
What to Serve with Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake
The joy of enjoying a Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake is best amplified with delightful pairings that enhance its flavors and textures.
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Fresh Berries: Ripe strawberries or blueberries provide a burst of natural sweetness, balancing the richness of the cheesecake. Their vibrant colors also make for a beautiful presentation!
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Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, this creamy topping adds a tropical touch that complements the warm spices beautifully. It's the perfect dairy-free addition to enhance the cheesecake's decadent experience!
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Minty Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens and a simple lemon vinaigrette contrasts the cheesecake's sweetness and adds a refreshing crunch. The mint elevates the flavor and brightness of your meal.
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Spiced Chai Tea: The comforting spices in chai tea resonate perfectly with the cinnamon notes in the cheesecake, creating a cozy drink that warms your soul on chilly evenings.
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Charcuterie Board: Pairing with a small selection of nuts and dried fruits will elevate your presentation and provide a delightful textural contrast to the cheesecake. It also makes for a great appetizer before diving into dessert!
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Classic Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream served alongside the cheesecake enhances the dessert experience with its creamy coldness—truly a match made in heaven!
Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you adapt this delightful dessert to suit your taste!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute traditional flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix for a chewy, inclusive crust.
- Nut-Free: Use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds to replace the nuts in the topping, ensuring everyone can enjoy this treat.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ground ginger to the apple filling for an unexpected flavor twist that warms the soul.
- Fruit Fusion: Swap apples with pears or peaches to change the seasonal vibe—every fruit brings its unique sweetness!
- Maple Goodness: Drizzle extra maple syrup over the top before serving for added sweetness and a lovely finishing touch.
- Decadent Chocolate: Incorporate chocolate chips into the crumble topping or the cheesecake filling for a rich, indulgent experience everyone will love.
- Zesty Citrus: Add orange zest to the filling for a refreshing citrus note that brightens each bite.
- Heightened Heat: If you enjoy some spice, a dash of cayenne pepper or fresh ginger in the filling can elevate the experience with a warming kick.
With these variations, there’s no limit to how you can make this Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake your own! For another delicious treat, don’t miss my Vegan Chocolate Mousse that’s perfect for pairing with this dessert!
Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right apples for the filling?
Absolutely! You'll want to choose apples that are firm and sweet for the best texture and flavor. Varieties like Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Granny Smith are perfect for baking, providing a lovely balance of sweetness and tartness. Avoid apples that have dark spots or are overly soft, as they won't hold their shape when cooked.
How should I store leftovers of the Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake?
Very simple! Store any leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you notice the crust getting too soft, you can re-crisp it slightly by warming slices in the oven for a few minutes.
Can I freeze Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake?
Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. It will maintain its deliciousness for up to 3 months. I often make a larger batch and freeze some for special occasions!
What should I do if my cheesecake cracks while baking?
Don’t worry, it happens! To minimize cracks, ensure you don’t overmix the filling or overbake it; the center should still have a slight jiggle when you take it out of the oven. If it cracks, just enjoy the deliciousness as it is; you can cover it with the crumble topping for a charming rustic look!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! This Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake is dairy-free, which is great for those with lactose intolerance. However, if you're concerned about allergies, be sure to check the labels on your vegan cookies and nuts, as they may contain gluten or other allergens. Always choose ingredients that meet your dietary needs.
How long do I need to chill the cheesecake before serving?
It’s crucial to chill the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or, preferably, overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and gives the filling time to set completely. Patience is key here, as the result is a creamy texture that will wow everyone!
Indulge in Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Crush the vegan cookies into fine crumbs.
- Mix crushed cookies with melted vegan butter until well combined.
- Press the cookie mixture into the bottom of a springform pan.
- Bake the crust for 10 minutes and let it cool.
- In a saucepan, combine diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cornstarch, and cook until soft.
- Mix oats, chopped nuts, flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon for the crumble topping.
- Blend silken tofu, vegan yogurt, maple syrup, lemon juice, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and salt until creamy.
- Pour half of the cheesecake filling into the crust, add the apples, and top with remaining cheesecake filling.
- Sprinkle crumble topping over layers.
- Bake for 55-60 minutes until the edges are set.
- Cool at room temperature for 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
- Carefully remove the sides of the springform pan, slice, and serve.
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