If you’re looking for a dessert that perfectly captures the cozy, spiced magic of autumn, Apple Butter Cheesecake is an absolute must-try. This cheesecake combines the creaminess you love with the deep, caramelized sweetness of apple butter and a warming blend of fall spices. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a luscious apple butter-infused filling, and plenty of ways to dress it up, this dessert is destined to become the star of any gathering. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday feast or simply treating yourself, every bite tastes like a delicious celebration of the season!

Apple Butter Cheesecake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of classic ingredients, this Apple Butter Cheesecake comes together beautifully. Each one plays a vital role, from the crust’s crunch to the dreamy, spiced filling that melts in your mouth.

Graham cracker crumbs: The base of our crust, these bring a toasty flavor and satisfying crunch that perfectly complements the creamy filling.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens both the crust and the filling, balancing the tang of the cream cheese and the richness of the apple butter.
Unsalted butter (melted): Binds the crust together and adds a delicious, buttery note to every bite.
Cream cheese (softened): The heart of any cheesecake, its creamy texture is essential for that smooth, luxurious filling.
Large eggs: These bind everything together and give the cheesecake its signature structure.
Apple butter: The star ingredient, bringing deep apple flavor and a hint of spice—homemade or store-bought both work wonders.
Sour cream: Adds tang and keeps the filling extra smooth and velvety.
Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors and enhances the warmth of the spices.
Cinnamon: Infuses the cheesecake with classic fall spice and warmth.
Nutmeg: Adds a subtle, nutty spice that pairs perfectly with apple flavors.
Optional toppings: More apple butter, whipped cream, crushed graham crackers, or candied pecans make for a gorgeous and delicious finish.

How to Make Apple Butter Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Preheat

Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F. Grease a 9-inch springform pan and wrap the bottom in foil to prevent any leaks. This extra step ensures an easy release and a picture-perfect dessert later on.

Step 2: Make the Graham Cracker Crust

In a medium bowl, stir together the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until the mixture looks like damp sand. Press it firmly and evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly while you prep the filling. This crust will hold everything together and add a lovely, buttery crunch to every forkful.

Step 3: Mix the Apple Butter Cheesecake Filling

Grab a large bowl and beat the softened cream cheese until completely smooth—no lumps allowed! Add in the sugar and beat until it’s well combined and creamy. Mix in the eggs one at a time, blending slowly and scraping down the sides so everything’s incorporated. Now comes the magic: stir in the apple butter, sour cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. The filling should be silky and flecked with those beautiful spices.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Pour the cheesecake filling over your cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until the center is set but still has a slight jiggle. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for an hour. This gentle cool-down helps prevent cracks and keeps the texture ultra-creamy.

Step 5: Chill and Top

Once your Apple Butter Cheesecake has cooled, transfer it to the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight. When you’re ready to serve, spread extra apple butter over the top and finish with whipped cream, crushed graham crackers, or candied pecans if you’re feeling fancy. Every slice will look as irresistible as it tastes!

How to Serve Apple Butter Cheesecake

Garnishes

The right garnish can take your Apple Butter Cheesecake from wonderful to show-stopping. A generous swirl of apple butter on top adds shine and amplifies those cozy apple flavors. For extra flair, dollop on whipped cream, sprinkle with crushed graham crackers, or add a handful of candied pecans for crunch and a touch of elegance.

Side Dishes

Since this cheesecake is rich and full of spice, consider serving it with something light and refreshing on the side. A simple fruit salad, a few crisp apple slices, or even a mug of hot tea or apple cider makes a delightful pairing without overshadowing the main event.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining or just want to impress, try slicing the cheesecake into small bars for a dessert platter, or use mini springform pans to create adorable individual Apple Butter Cheesecakes. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a dusting of cinnamon sugar can make each serving look bakery-worthy—let your creativity run wild!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Apple Butter Cheesecake keeps beautifully in the fridge! Cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh and creamy for up to 4 days—if it lasts that long!

Freezing

This cheesecake is freezer-friendly, making it a great make-ahead dessert. Simply wrap the cooled, un-topped cheesecake (or individual slices) tightly in foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

Cheesecake is usually best enjoyed chilled, but if you prefer a slightly warmer slice, let it sit out at room temperature for 30 minutes. Avoid the microwave, as it can alter the texture—just let the natural creaminess shine!

FAQs

Can I use homemade apple butter in this recipe?

Absolutely! Homemade apple butter brings even more depth and freshness to your Apple Butter Cheesecake, but a good-quality store-bought version works beautifully too.

What’s the best way to prevent cracks in my cheesecake?

Letting your cheesecake cool gradually in the oven with the door cracked open is the secret to a smooth top. Also, avoid over-mixing the eggs, which can add air bubbles that cause cracks as the cheesecake bakes.

How do I know when my cheesecake is done baking?

The center should look set but still have a slight jiggle when you gently shake the pan. It will continue to firm up as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems a bit soft straight out of the oven.

Can I make Apple Butter Cheesecake ahead of time?

Yes, and it actually tastes even better after chilling overnight. You can make it up to two days in advance, making it perfect for parties and holiday gatherings.

Is it possible to make this cheesecake gluten-free?

Definitely! Just substitute your favorite gluten-free graham crackers for the crust, and you’ll have a delicious, gluten-free Apple Butter Cheesecake everyone can enjoy.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about the combination of spiced apple butter and creamy cheesecake. If you’re ready to fall in love with a new favorite, give this Apple Butter Cheesecake a chance to shine on your dessert table. I can’t wait for you to take that first forkful—you’re in for a treat!

Apple Butter Cheesecake Recipe

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4.9 from 17 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes (plus chilling time)
Yield: 12 slices 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Apple Butter Cheesecake is a luscious and creamy dessert perfect for fall and holiday gatherings. Featuring a buttery graham cracker crust and a spiced apple butter-infused filling, it delivers cozy flavors with a smooth, velvety texture. Optional toppings of whipped cream and candied pecans add a delightful finishing touch.

Ingredients

Scale

For the crust:

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the filling:

24 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 cup apple butter
1/2 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

For the topping (optional):

1/2 cup apple butter
Whipped cream
Crushed graham crackers or candied pecans

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Instructions

Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F. Grease a 9-inch springform pan and wrap the bottom with foil to prevent leaks during baking.
Make the crust: In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove and allow it to cool slightly.
Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth using a mixer. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until fully incorporated. Add eggs one at a time while mixing on low speed, scraping down the sides as needed. Fold in apple butter, sour cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg, blending until the filling is creamy and smooth.
Assemble and bake: Pour the cream cheese filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 55 to 65 minutes, until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
Cool the cheesecake: Turn off the oven and crack the door open. Let the cheesecake cool inside the oven for 1 hour to prevent cracking. Then transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to set completely.
Add toppings and serve: Before serving, spread the remaining apple butter over the top. Garnish with whipped cream and sprinkle with crushed graham crackers or candied pecans if desired for extra texture and flavor.

Notes

For a stronger spice flavor, add a pinch of ground cloves to the filling mixture.
This cheesecake can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
You may use either homemade or store-bought apple butter according to convenience; both work beautifully.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American