Ingredients
Cookies
Cheesecake
Caramelized Apples
Instructions
Step 1
Cookies: Grind the soft butter with powdered sugar. Add the egg yolk, a pinch of salt, and flour. Mix in a blender. Put the dough in the fridge for 1-2 hours. Chilling the dough helps it hold its shape when baking.
Step 2
Roll out the dough to 0.2 inches thick, chop, and cool in the freezer before baking. Bake for 10-15 minutes at 356°F (180°C). Let the cookies cool.
Step 3
Cheesecake Base: Grind the cookies into small crumbs. Pour the melted butter into the crumbs to form a wet sand texture. Put the mixture in a mold and press it to form a base. Bake for 10 minutes at 356°F (180°C), then let it cool.
Step 4
Cheesecake Filling: In a bowl, combine the cream cheese, sugar, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Pour in the cream and lemon juice, and whisk until smooth. Pour the mixture into the mold over the cookie base.
Step 5
Preheat the oven to 230°F to 266°F (110°C to 130°C). Place the cheesecake in the oven and a separate dish with hot water on the bottom. Bake for 90-120 minutes until the center is slightly jiggly. Allow the cheesecake to cool and refrigerate overnight. The water bath helps prevent cracks.
Step 6
Caramelized Apples: In a dry frying pan, melt the brown sugar until it turns a caramel color. Add the butter and stir. Add the apple slices and cinnamon. Cook, stirring constantly, for about 3-4 minutes, until apples are tender. Keep an eye on the sugar to avoid burning it.
Step 7
Decorate the top of the cheesecake with caramelized apples. Enjoy your delicious homemade cheesecake!
Servings
🍎 **Deliciously Decadent Cheesecake Serving Suggestions** 📜
Hosting a dinner party? Serve this cheesecake with a side of freshly whipped cream for an extra dose of indulgence. If you're having a relaxed family dinner, pair each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream 🍨—the hot caramelized apples melding with the cool ice cream will be a delightful surprise!
Want to add a little crunch? Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top before adding the caramelized apples. For a more festive touch, drizzle caramel sauce over each slice and add a sprinkle of sea salt 🧂.
Don't forget to brew a fresh pot of coffee ☕ or perhaps a warm mug of apple cider—either beverage will complement the rich, creamy cheesecake and the sweet, spiced apples beautifully. Bon Appétit!
Equipment
Perfect for grinding cookies into fine crumbs.
Have a few different sizes handy for various mixing stages.
Essential for rolling out the cookie dough evenly.
This size is crucial to get the right cheesecake height and consistency.
Ensure your delicious baked goods cool evenly and efficiently.
Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
For whipping eggs and other ingredients smoothly.
Keep track of your oven’s temperature for perfect results.
Variations
🥑 **Gluten-Free Variation**
Switch out the flour with a gluten-free flour blend in the cookie base. Ensure the cookies you use are also gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients remain unchanged, so you get the same delicious taste!
🌱 **Vegan Variation**
Swap out the butter for a plant-based alternative 🧈, and use a vegan cream cheese. Replace the eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg). Use coconut cream 🥥 instead of heavy cream.
For the caramelized apples, opt for vegan butter and you're all set to enjoy a plant-based version of this delectable dessert!
Faq
- What if I don't have a springform pan?
You can use a regular cake pan, but make sure to line it well with baking parchment for easier removal.
- Can I use store-bought cookies for the base?
Yes, store-bought cookies will work fine, although homemade cookies offer a unique taste and texture.
- How do I know the cheesecake is baked through?
The center should still have a slight jiggle, but the edges should be set. This can take anywhere from 90 to 120 minutes.
- Why do I need to use a water bath?
A water bath helps bake the cheesecake evenly and prevents cracks on the surface.
- Can I make caramelized apples ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them in advance and reheat slightly before serving for the best texture and flavor.
- How long can the cheesecake be stored?
It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to cover it well to maintain its freshness.
