Apple Crisp Mini Cheesecakes

By Lily | Last modified on Dec 14, 2025

Featured in: Desserts

Experience the perfect blend of creamy, tangy cheesecake filling paired with warm, spiced apples and a crunchy oat streusel topping in these charming mini desserts. Apple Crisp Mini Cheesecakes capture the essence of fall in each bite, evoking memories of cozy gatherings and festival flavors.

Individually portioned and beautifully layered on a buttery graham cracker crust, these cheesecakes promise to delight guests and family alike. The caramel drizzle and whipped cream topping balance the tart apples with a touch of indulgence, making them a festive and irresistible treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect size for portion control and elegant presentation at any event.
Combines the rich creaminess of cheesecake with the warm, cozy spices of autumn apples.
Features a buttery oat streusel topping that adds satisfying crunch and texture.
Easy to prepare ahead and store for convenient serving during busy occasions.

Ingredients

Graham Cracker Crumbs: Provides a sweet, buttery base with a crisp texture for the crust, essential for structure and flavor.
Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness to both crust and filling, balancing the tartness of the apples.
Cinnamon: Infuses warm, fragrant spice throughout the crust, apple topping, and streusel crumb.
Unsalted Butter: Melted and used in crust and streusel to bind ingredients while giving richness and moisture.
Cream Cheese: Softened to creamy perfection, it forms the rich, smooth body of the cheesecake filling.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances the cheesecake filling with aromatic sweetness and depth of flavor.
All-Purpose Flour: Stabilizes the cheesecake filling and helps create the crumbly streusel topping.
Egg: Binds the cheesecake filling, allowing it to set with a creamy yet firm texture.
Apples: Peeled and finely chopped for an even texture; their natural tartness brightens the filling.
Fresh Lemon Juice: Prevents the apples from browning and adds a refreshing tang to balance sweetness.
Light Brown Sugar: Adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness to the apple mixture and streusel topping.
Cornstarch: Thickens the apple topping, so it holds together beautifully without becoming runny.
Quick-Cooking Oats: Provide a hearty, chewy texture in the streusel topping for a satisfying crunch.
Nutmeg: Lends subtle warmth and complexity in the apple mixture and streusel flavors.
Caramel Sauce: Optional finishing drizzle that adds indulgent sweetness and pairs wonderfully with the spiced apples and creamy cheesecake.

Instructions

Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, cinnamon, and sugar. Pour in melted butter and stir until crumbs are evenly coated. Press about 2 tablespoons of this mixture firmly into each cupcake liner using your fingers or the back of a spoon. Chilling the crust helps it set, ensuring a sturdy base to hold the cheesecake filling properly.
Make the Streusel Topping: In another bowl, mix together flour, brown sugar, oats, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Add melted butter and stir until coarse crumbs form. Refrigerate the streusel while you prepare the filling to keep it firm and prevent it from melting during baking, which preserves the desired crunchy texture.
Mix the Cheesecake Filling: Beat softened cream cheese with granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and flour until smooth and creamy. Add the egg last and mix just to combine, taking care to avoid overmixing which can cause cracks during baking. This results in a silky, dense filling with ideal texture.
Assemble the Cheesecakes: Spoon the cheesecake filling evenly over each crust, filling them about two-thirds full. This ensures room for the apple topping and streusel layers without overflowing while baking. Smooth the surface gently for even coverage.
Prepare the Apple Topping: Toss finely chopped apples with lemon juice, brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and nutmeg to coat evenly. This combination prevents browning and thickens the topping as it bakes, infusing the apples with warm, sweet spice.
Add Apples and Streusel: Spoon the seasoned apple mixture atop each cheesecake, gently pressing down slightly with your palm to compact it. Generously sprinkle the chilled streusel over the apples, creating a visually appealing and crunchy topping that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy filling below.
Bake to Perfection: Bake the assembled mini cheesecakes at 325°F (163°C) for 28-30 minutes until the edges are set and the center is just slightly jiggly. This careful timing guarantees a creamy interior with a firm crust and properly cooked fruit topping.
Cool and Chill: Allow cheesecakes to cool in the pan for 30 minutes, then transfer them to the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours. Chilling helps the cheesecake fully set and the flavors meld, resulting in a luscious texture and intensified taste.
Serve with Caramel Drizzle: Before serving, top each mini cheesecake with whipped cream and a generous drizzle of caramel sauce. This finishing touch adds irresistible sweetness and a smooth finish that pairs beautifully with the fall spices and tangy apples.

You Must Know

Choose Golden Delicious apples for the perfect balance of sweetness and firmness; they maintain their shape without turning mushy.
Avoid overmixing the cheesecake batter after adding the egg to prevent cracks during baking.
Dice apples uniformly small (about 1/4-inch pieces) for even cooking and consistent texture.
Keep the streusel mixture chilled until ready to use to maintain an appealing crumbly texture and prevent it from melting too quickly.
Cheesecakes can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator for convenience.
These mini cheesecakes freeze well for up to 3 weeks; thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Storage Tips

Store leftover mini cheesecakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. For longer storage, freeze wrapped tightly and thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these mini cheesecakes chilled or at room temperature with a dollop of whipped cream and caramel drizzle for extra indulgence. They are perfect as a charming dessert for holiday dinners, parties, or cozy evenings at home.

Professional Tips

Press the crust firmly but gently to avoid crumbling during baking yet keep it tender.
Use softened cream cheese at room temperature to ensure a smooth, lump-free filling without overworking the batter.
Allow cheesecakes to cool gradually to prevent sudden temperature changes that may cause cracks or sinking.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple?: Yes, however, firmer, sweeter varieties like Golden Delicious or Fuji work best to hold shape without becoming mushy.
How far in advance can I prepare these mini cheesecakes?: You can make them up to 3 days ahead and refrigerate them covered, or freeze for up to 3 weeks for convenience.
Can I omit the caramel sauce?: Absolutely, the cheesecakes are delicious on their own, but caramel adds a lovely richness and complementary sweetness.
Is there a way to make these gluten-free?: Substitute gluten-free graham cracker crumbs and use gluten-free flour in the streusel to adapt the recipe accordingly.
What’s the best way to prevent cracks in the cheesecake?: Avoid overmixing after adding the egg and bake at a consistent, moderate temperature to reduce the risk of cracking.