Dreamy Apple Cider Cheesecake Recipe for Fall Sweetness

Indulge in the ultimate autumn dessert that blends creamy richness with the warm, spiced notes of apple cider cheesecake.

Seasonal baking reaches new heights with this delectable treat that captures the essence of crisp fall days.

Smooth cream cheese mingles with the subtle tang of apple cider, creating a dessert that’s both comforting and sophisticated.

The graham cracker crust provides a perfect crumbly foundation for this luscious cheesecake.

Aromatic spices weave through each decadent bite, promising a sensory journey that delights from the first forkful.

You’ll fall in love with this show-stopping dessert that turns an ordinary evening into a celebration of autumn’s finest flavors.

Get ready to impress with a cheesecake that’s sure to become your new seasonal favorite.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 70 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes

Calories: 410 kcal

Servings: 13

Apple Cider Cheesecake Ingredients

• Graham Cracker Crumbs: Provides crispy, sweet foundation with rich, buttery texture perfect for holding cheesecake layers.
• Brown Sugar: Adds deep caramel undertones and helps bind crust ingredients together.
• Melted Butter: Creates cohesive, compact crust with golden, rich flavor and smooth consistency.

• Cream Cheese: Delivers smooth, luxurious base with tangy richness and creamy texture.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens filling and balances cream cheese's tanginess.
• Reduced Apple Cider: Infuses intense, concentrated apple essence with complex, caramelized notes.
• Sour Cream: Enhances silky texture and adds subtle tang to complement sweet flavors.
• Vanilla Extract: Provides warm, aromatic depth and rounds out overall flavor profile.
• Eggs: Binds ingredients, creates structure, and contributes to smooth, custardy consistency.

• Cinnamon: Adds warm, cozy spice with rich autumnal character.
• Apple Cider: Brings bright, fresh apple essence and concentrated sweetness.
• Butter: Creates glossy, golden finish and adds rich, indulgent flavor.
• Granulated Sugar: Provides sweet, sparkling topping with delicate crunch.

Tools to Make Apple Cider Cheesecake Smooth

• Springform Pan: 9-inch essential for removing cheesecake cleanly.
• Mixer: Stand or hand mixer needed for smooth, creamy filling.
• Saucepan: Medium-sized for reducing apple cider.
• Measuring Cups: Precise measurements for ingredients.
• Roasting Pan: Large enough to hold water bath for even baking.
• Aluminum Foil: For wrapping springform pan to prevent water leakage.
• Parchment Paper: Prevents crust from sticking to pan.
• Butter Knife: For swirling cinnamon filling into cheesecake batter.
• Wire Rack: For cooling cheesecake after baking.
• Small Bowls: Multiple needed for mixing different components.
• Fork: For mixing crust and other ingredients.

Preparing Apple Cider Cheesecake at Home

• Cider Concentration

Simmer apple cider in a saucepan until it reduces to half its original volume. Let the liquid cool down completely before using.

• Cracker Foundation

Prepare a springform pan by lightly spraying and adding parchment paper. Mix graham cracker crumbs with brown sugar and butter, then press firmly into the pan’s bottom and sides. Bake the crust briefly to set its structure.

• Creamy Filling Preparation

Blend cream cheese and sugar until silky smooth. Incorporate reduced cider, sour cream, and vanilla. Gently fold in eggs one at a time, ensuring a uniform mixture without overmixing.

• Water Bath Technique

Wrap the springform pan in aluminum foil to prevent water seepage. Place the pan inside a larger roasting dish filled with hot water, creating a gentle steaming environment for even baking.

• Baking Performance

Pour cheesecake batter into the prepared crust. Sprinkle cinnamon mixture across the top and create swirling patterns using a knife. Bake until edges are firm and center slightly jiggles.

• Cooling Sequence

Allow cheesecake to rest in the oven after turning off heat. Transfer to a cooling rack, then refrigerate for several hours until completely chilled.

• Finishing Touch

Brush the chilled cheesecake with a blend of melted butter and cider. Dust generously with cinnamon sugar for a sparkling, sweet exterior.

Flavor Tips for Apple Cider Cheesecake

• Swap graham crackers with gingersnaps or shortbread cookies for a different flavor profile that complements the apple cider essence.
• Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing to achieve a smooth, lump-free cheesecake filling without overbeating.
• Create more dramatic cinnamon swirls by using a toothpick or skewer to create intricate patterns across the cheesecake surface before baking.
• Experiment with different apple cider varieties like spiced or unfiltered to enhance the cake's depth of flavor and add unique undertones.
• Prepare the cheesecake up to three days in advance, keeping it refrigerated and adding the cinnamon-sugar topping just before serving for maximum freshness.

How to Serve Apple Cider Cheesecake Nicely

• Craft a Rustic Autumn Dessert Spread: Arrange slices of the cheesecake on a wooden board with fresh apple wedges, cinnamon sticks, and a small pitcher of warm apple cider for a cozy farmhouse-style presentation.
• Create Caramel Drizzle Delight: Enhance each slice with a smooth caramel sauce and a sprinkle of toasted pecans to add extra richness and crunch that complements the apple cider flavors.
• Pair with Warming Beverages: Serve alongside a hot cup of spiced apple tea or a rich bourbon-spiked cider to elevate the dessert experience and bring out the deep autumn notes of the cheesecake.
• Add Fresh Garnish Finish: Top each slice with a light dusting of ground cinnamon, a few thin apple chips, or a small dollop of whipped cream to add visual appeal and extra flavor complexity.

Storing Apple Cider Cheesecake for Another Slice

• Refrigerate Wisely: Store the apple cider cheesecake in an airtight container or wrapped tightly with plastic wrap for up to 5 days in the refrigerator. Keep it away from strong-smelling foods to maintain its delicate flavor profile.
• Freeze for Future Enjoyment: Slice the cheesecake into individual portions before freezing. Wrap each slice securely in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Frozen cheesecake can last up to 2 months without losing its creamy texture.
• Thaw with Care: Remove frozen cheesecake slices from the freezer and let them defrost in the refrigerator overnight. This slow thawing process helps preserve the cake's smooth consistency and prevents moisture buildup.
• Serving Smart: For the best taste and texture, remove the cheesecake from the refrigerator 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to develop and the texture to soften slightly, creating a more enjoyable dessert experience.

Smooth Apple Cider Cheesecake Recipe

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4.6 from 12 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
• Yield: 13 1x

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Description

Scrumptious apple cider cheesecake blends autumnal spices with creamy richness. Warm cinnamon and tart apples create a delightful dessert you cannot resist.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 24 oz (680 g) cream cheese (room temperature)
• 4 large eggs (room temperature)
• 2 cups apple cider (reduced to ½ cup)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup sour cream (room temperature)
• 2 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 2 sleeves)
• 10 tbsps unsalted butter (melted)
• 1/8 cup brown sugar (packed light or dark)
• ¼ cup brown sugar (packed light or dark)
• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tbsp melted butter
• 1 tbsp apple cider
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tsps ground cinnamon
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 tbsp apple cider
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Reduction Preparation: Simmer apple cider in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat until liquid concentrates, approximately 10-15 minutes. Cool to room temperature.
2. Oven Setup: Preheat to 325°F (160°C). Prepare a 9-inch springform pan with nonstick spray and parchment paper lining.
3. Crust Formation: Combine graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and melted butter until mixture resembles wet sand. Press firmly into pan bottom and sides using a measuring cup for even compaction.
4. Crust Baking: Bake crust for 12 minutes, then cool completely at room temperature.
5. Filling Development: Whisk brown sugar, flour, ground cinnamon, apple cider, and melted butter until smooth. Refrigerate to set.
6. Cream Cheese Mixture: Beat cream cheese and granulated sugar on high speed until silky. Integrate reduced apple cider, sour cream, and vanilla extract on medium speed.
7. Egg Incorporation: Add eggs individually on low speed, ensuring complete blending and scraping bowl sides between additions.
8. Water Bath Preparation: Wrap springform pan in aluminum foil or place inside a larger pan. Position in a roasting pan filled with hot water reaching halfway up sides.
9. Assembly and Swirling: Pour cheesecake batter over crust, distribute chilled cinnamon filling, and create elegant swirls with a butter knife.
10. Baking Process: Bake 70-80 minutes until edges set and center gently wobbles. Turn off oven, open door slightly, and let cheesecake cool inside for 30 minutes.
11. Cooling and Chilling: Transfer to wire rack, cool completely, then cover and refrigerate for minimum 6 hours.
12. Finishing Touch: Mix melted butter with apple cider. Combine granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Remove cheesecake from pan, brush top with butter-cider mixture, and dust generously with cinnamon-sugar blend.

Notes

• Prevent Cracking Technique: Slow cooling in the oven prevents sudden temperature changes that cause surface cracks, ensuring a smooth, professional-looking cheesecake.
• Water Bath Essential: Using a water bath creates gentle, even heat distribution, preventing the cheesecake from baking too quickly and developing unsightly cracks or dry edges.
• Chill for Perfect Texture: Allowing the cheesecake to rest in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours helps set the filling completely and enhances the depth of apple cider flavors.
• Mixing Pro Tip: Beat cream cheese at room temperature and incorporate eggs one at a time to create a silky, lump-free batter that ensures a creamy, luxurious cheesecake texture.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 70 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 13
• Calories: 410
• Sugar: 30 g
• Sodium: 290 mg
• Fat: 25 g
• Saturated Fat: 15 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 39 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Cholesterol: 100 mg