Creamy Apple Cider Cheesecake Recipe
This Apple Cider Cheesecake combines the rich, creamy texture of classic cheesecake with the warm, spiced flavor of apple cider, creating a seasonal dessert perfect for fall gatherings. The smooth cream cheese filling is lightly sweetened and infused with apple cider, baked atop a crisp crust until set to perfection.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
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 (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until well combined. Slowly blend in the apple cider, eggs, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the chilled crust in the springform pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for about 55-65 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Avoid overbaking to maintain creamy texture.
- Cool and Chill: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool at room temperature for about an hour. Then, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set and enhance flavors.
- Serve: Carefully remove the sides of the springform pan, slice, and serve chilled. Optionally, garnish with whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon before serving.
Notes
- For a firmer crust, bake the crust alone at 350°F (177°C) for 8 minutes before adding filling.
- Use fresh apple cider for the best flavor; avoid concentrate or sweetened versions.
- Allow cream cheese to soften at room temperature for easier mixing and smoother filling.
- If the cheesecake cracks, cover with whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce to mask imperfections.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Keywords: apple cider cheesecake, fall dessert, cream cheese dessert, baked cheesecake, apple inspired dessert
