Name: Apple Crumble Cheesecake with Vegan Cream Cheese and Spiced Apple Filling Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: PT-497576H7M41S
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 150 g biscoff cookies (or other vegan cookies); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg; ½ teaspoon ground ginger; ¼ teaspoon sea salt; 50 g vegan butter (block-style); 120 g all-purpose flour (plain flour); 50 g light brown sugar; 50 g granulated sugar; ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon; ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg; ½ teaspoon sea salt; 70 g vegan butter (block-style, room temp, cubed); 400 g vegan cream cheese (room temp); 100 g granulated sugar; 50 g light brown sugar (or substitute with granulated sugar); 200 ml vegan heavy cream (room temp); 200 g vegan Greek-style yogurt (room temp); 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 45 g cornstarch; 250 g apples (cored and diced with skin); 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 2 tablespoons light brown sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ½ teaspoon ground ginger; ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg; 2 teaspoons cornstarch

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 42 reviews

If you crave a cozy dessert that feels like a warm hug in every bite, this Apple Crumble Cheesecake with Vegan Cream Cheese and Spiced Apple Filling Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together a buttery, spiced cookie crust, a luxuriously creamy vegan cream cheese filling, and a tangy, fragrant apple layer all crowned with a perfectly crumbly topping. Whether you’re vegan or simply exploring plant-based treats, this cheesecake delivers incredible texture and flavor that will make any special occasion feel like a celebration. Let me share how you can bring this delicious Apple Crumble Cheesecake with Vegan Cream Cheese and Spiced Apple Filling Recipe to your table with straightforward ingredients and a step-by-step guide.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top-down view of a wooden table with various white bowls and glass containers holding baking ingredients arranged neatly. There is a bowl of light beige flour at the top center, a clear glass container filled with white vegan heavy cream next to it, and a small white bowl with creamy vegan yogurt below. A white plastic tray holds smooth white vegan cream cheese beside two whole red apples with yellow accents. Around these are small white bowls containing brown sugar, white sugar, and white cornstarch, plus a clear bowl filled with rectangular brown cookies, a small white dish with light brown spices, another clear bowl with yellow vegan butter, a tiny wooden bowl with white salt, a dark liquid vanilla extract in a small glass, and a half lemon with bright yellow and white inside. All items are placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

You’ll find the ingredients are beautifully simple yet essential for filling your kitchen with inviting aromas and layering flavors that work in perfect harmony. Each component plays a vital role, from the spiced cookie crust that gives structure and crunch to the creamy filling that melts in your mouth, complemented by the warm apple filling and the crisp crumble topping.

Biscoff cookies (150 g): These give the crust a fragrant cinnamon and caramelized sugar flavor, but you can use any vegan cookies you love.
Ground cinnamon (1½ teaspoons): Adds a cozy warmth to crust, filling, and apples.
Ground nutmeg (1 teaspoon): Brings a subtle earthy spice for depth.
Ground ginger (½ teaspoon): Adds a spicy bite that lingers delightfully.
Sea salt (¾ teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances flavors throughout.
Vegan butter (120 g total): Use block-style, softened or melted, essential for both crust and crumble’s rich texture.
All-purpose flour (120 g): The base for the crumble topping’s delicate crispness.
Light brown sugar (100 g total): Offers a molasses-like sweetness for both crumble and filling.
Granulated sugar (100 g total): Sweetens filling and crumble, balancing flavors.
Vegan cream cheese (400 g): The star ingredient creating that classic cheesecake richness without dairy.
Vegan heavy cream (200 ml): Whipped into the filling for a light, airy texture.
Vegan Greek-style yogurt (200 g): Adds tanginess and a lovely creamy body.
Vanilla extract (1 tablespoon): Infuses the filling with sweet aromatic notes.
Cornstarch (45 g + 2 teaspoons): Stabilizes the filling and thickens the apple mixture perfectly.
Apples (250 g): Firm, crisp apples get chopped and spiced to make the delightful fruit layer.
Lemon juice (1 teaspoon): Brightens the apple filling with a fresh zing.

How to Make Apple Crumble Cheesecake with Vegan Cream Cheese and Spiced Apple Filling Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Ingredients

Start by choosing your pan wisely—a 7-inch springform or removable base pan with tall sides works best. This will hold the layers securely as they bake. Let your vegan butter, cream cheese, cream, and yogurt sit at room temperature for about an hour for the smoothest mixing. Preheat the oven to 356°F (180°C), grease and line your pan, then wrap it with foil to prevent leaks. Placing the pan on a baking sheet will make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Make the Spiced Cookie Crust

In a food processor, blitz your biscoff cookies together with cinnamon, nutmeg, sea salt, and softened vegan butter until it clumps together nicely. This is the base that holds all your layers—press it firmly into your prepared pan, up the sides too, creating an even, compact layer. Par-bake this crust for 12 minutes, then let it cool—it’s the foundation you’ll build on, so let it set while you prepare the rest.

Step 3: Adjust Oven and Create Crumble Topping

Turn your oven down to 320°F (160°C) and add a pan of boiling water on the bottom rack for gentle steaming that will keep the cheesecake creamy. For the crumble, combine flour, sugars, spices, salt, and cubed vegan butter. Rub the butter in with your fingertips until you achieve a variety of crumb sizes—some fine, some chunky. Pop this chill time in the fridge so it stays ready for topping later.

Step 4: Whip Up the Silky Vegan Cream Cheese Filling

Beat your vegan cream cheese until it’s fluffy using an electric or stand mixer. Slowly incorporate granulated and brown sugars in batches, then drizzle in the vegan cream while mixing continuously for that airy whipped texture. Add yogurt and vanilla next, finishing with cornstarch to help the filling set just right. This filling is what brings luscious, tangy softness that cheesecake lovers live for.

Step 5: Prepare the Spiced Apple Filling

Dice apples with skins left on for texture and nutrients, then toss with lemon juice to stop browning. Stir in brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cornstarch. This mix packs punchy, spiced sweetness that perfectly balances the creamy cheesecake and crunchy topping.

Step 6: Assemble Your Cheesecake

On your cooled crust, spread half of the cream cheese mixture. Layer roughly a third of the apple filling on top, then put on the remaining cream cheese mixture and smooth it out. Scatter the leftover apples over the surface, and finally, sprinkle your chilled crumble topping generously. Some big crumbles add charming texture and a rustic look.

Step 7: Bake and Chill

Bake for 60 to 75 minutes until the crumble is golden and the cheesecake edges appear set with a slight jiggle in the center. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door closed for one hour—this gentle finishing step ensures tenderness. Once out, cool completely and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight to let the flavors meld and texture perfect.

Step 8: Serve with Care

Run a knife around the edges before carefully releasing from the pan. Use a serrated knife to slice through the crumb topping cleanly, wiping between cuts for the neatest slices. Now you’re all set to enjoy this indulgent, plant-based Apple Crumble Cheesecake with Vegan Cream Cheese and Spiced Apple Filling Recipe.

How to Serve Apple Crumble Cheesecake with Vegan Cream Cheese and Spiced Apple Filling Recipe

A round cake with three visible layers sits on a white plate on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is a dark brown crust with a firm texture. The middle layer is thick, creamy, and pale beige, with bits of apple inside. The top layer is a golden crumbly streusel, with a rough and uneven texture covering the entire surface. In the background, slightly blurred, are three red and yellow apples. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A dusting of powdered cinnamon or a handful of toasted pecans on top will add extra warmth and crunch. Fresh apple slices glazed with a touch of maple syrup make a lovely match, while a drizzle of vegan caramel sauce takes it over the top with a sweet, buttery finish.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream or a dollop of coconut whipped cream for a luscious contrast. A bright, tart berry compote can also complement the spices and sweetness in the cheesecake, creating a balanced flavor experience that everyone will love.

Creative Ways to Present

Try individual mini cheesecakes in glass jars or ramekins for personalized servings that look elegant and inviting. Layered parfaits using leftover crumble, cream cheese filling, and apple mix also make a fun and easy dessert alternative with the same flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your cheesecake fresh by storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This allows the flavors to mature even further, and the texture stays wonderfully creamy and moist.

Freezing

You can freeze individual cheesecake slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight. This method is perfect for preparing ahead or if you want to save some for later indulgence without compromising taste or texture.

Reheating

Cheesecake is best served chilled, so simply let it come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before slicing and serving after refrigeration or thawing. Avoid microwaving as it can alter the texture, but a brief warm plate or spoon of warm sauce makes a nice touch.

FAQs

Can I use other types of vegan cream cheese?

Yes, any good-quality vegan cream cheese works, but choosing one with a mild flavor ensures the spices and apples shine through in this Apple Crumble Cheesecake with Vegan Cream Cheese and Spiced Apple Filling Recipe.

What kind of apples are best for the filling?

Firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape well and add a lovely tartness, balancing the sweet crumble and creamy filling perfectly.

Is it necessary to use vegan heavy cream and yogurt?

Both help with the creaminess and texture. If you don’t have vegan heavy cream, you can substitute with full-fat coconut milk whipped until fluffy. Greek-style vegan yogurt adds acidity and thickness crucial for that authentic cheesecake feel.

Can I make this cheesecake nut-free?

Absolutely! The recipe is naturally nut-free if you use nut-free biscuits and plant-based creams. Just double-check labels to avoid hidden nuts if allergies are a concern.

How long does it take to bake and chill this cheesecake?

After a 1 to 1.25 hour bake, the cheesecake requires at least 6 hours chilling, preferably overnight, to set properly—so plan ahead for best results with this Apple Crumble Cheesecake with Vegan Cream Cheese and Spiced Apple Filling Recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Crumble Cheesecake with Vegan Cream Cheese and Spiced Apple Filling Recipe is a celebration of fall flavors and creamy indulgence that you can enjoy any time of the year. It’s the kind of dessert that invites smiles, conversation, and heartfelt compliments. If you love a cheesecake that feels both decadent and wholesome, this recipe is a must-try—bring it to your next gathering or treat yourself on a cozy night in. You won’t regret making this delightful, plant-based masterpiece your new favorite dessert.