Deliciously creamy, delightfully crunchy, and irresistibly sweet, Apple Crisp Mini Cheesecakes combine the comforting warmth of apple pie with the rich indulgence of cheesecake. These individual-sized treats are the perfect fusion of two classic desserts, offering the buttery crisp topping of a traditional apple crumble layered over a smooth cheesecake base—all nestled inside a graham cracker crust. Whether you’re planning a cozy autumn gathering, looking for a festive holiday dessert, or simply craving something special, these mini cheesecakes deliver both flavor and charm in every bite.

They’re easy to make ahead, store well, and portioned just right for serving at parties or enjoying solo. The sweet-tart flavor of the apples pairs beautifully with the creamy filling and the spiced oat topping, creating a multi-textured experience that feels like a celebration in every mouthful. Plus, they’re baked in muffin tins, so no fancy pans or springforms needed. If you love apple crisp and you’re a cheesecake fan, this dessert might just become your new favorite. Get ready to wow your guests—and yourself—with these bite-sized autumn-inspired treats!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Two Desserts in One – It combines classic apple crisp with creamy cheesecake in a portable, fun-sized form.
Perfect for Entertaining – Individual portions make them ideal for parties, holidays, or bake sales.
Make-Ahead Friendly – They store well and taste even better the next day, making them a stress-free option for busy hosts.
Warm Spices + Creamy Texture – The contrast between the spiced apples, crunchy topping, and smooth cheesecake is irresistibly delicious.
Customizable – Easy to adapt with different toppings or crusts to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Ingredients

Graham crackers
Butter
Cream cheese
Sugar
Eggs
Vanilla extract
Apples
Brown sugar
Cinnamon
Nutmeg
All-purpose flour
Rolled oats

Variations

Gluten-Free Option

Use gluten-free graham crackers and a gluten-free flour blend to make these suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Caramel Drizzle

Add a decadent touch by drizzling caramel sauce over the top before serving.

Nutty Crunch

Mix chopped pecans or walnuts into the crisp topping for added texture and flavor.

Spice it Up

Enhance the fall flavors by adding cloves or allspice to the apple mixture.

Crust Alternatives

Swap graham crackers for crushed gingersnaps or vanilla wafers for a flavor twist.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Combine crushed graham crackers and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a lined muffin tin to form the crust. Bake for a few minutes until set.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Spoon the mixture over the crusts.

Step 3: Cook the Apples

Peel and dice the apples, then sauté them with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until tender and syrupy.

Step 4: Prepare the Crisp Topping

Mix oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter together to form a crumbly topping.

Step 5: Assemble

Top each cheesecake with a spoonful of the cooked apples, followed by the oat crumble.

Step 6: Bake

Bake until the centers are set and the topping is golden brown. Allow them to cool completely, then chill in the refrigerator.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
Use a Muffin Liner: Makes removing and serving much easier.
Chill Thoroughly: Let the cheesecakes chill at least 2–3 hours, or overnight, for best texture.
Uniform Size: Dice apples evenly so they cook at the same rate.
Avoid Overmixing: Too much mixing can incorporate air, causing the cheesecakes to crack.

How to Serve

Serve chilled or at room temperature. Add a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce on top for extra flair. These are perfect as a dessert centerpiece, on a holiday buffet, or as a sweet bite with coffee or tea.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover cheesecakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen over time, making them even more delicious!

Freezing

Wrap each mini cheesecake individually and store them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Reheating

These are best enjoyed cold, but if you prefer them warm, microwave on low in short intervals. Just note that the cheesecake texture may soften.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned apple pie filling instead of fresh apples?

Yes, but fresh apples provide a better texture and flavor.

2. Do I need a water bath for baking mini cheesecakes?

No, since they’re baked in a muffin tin, a water bath isn’t necessary.

3. What kind of apples work best?

Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness are great choices.

4. Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! They taste even better after a night in the fridge.

5. How long do they need to chill?

At least 2–3 hours, but overnight is ideal.

6. Can I make this into a full-size cheesecake?

Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the baking time and use a springform pan.

7. How do I prevent cracks in the cheesecake?

Don’t overmix and avoid sudden temperature changes after baking.

8. Are these suitable for kids?

Definitely! They’re sweet, mild, and perfectly portioned for little hands.

9. Can I omit the oat topping?

You can, but the crisp adds a lovely texture contrast.

10. What’s the best way to crush graham crackers?

A food processor works best, or place them in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin.

Conclusion

Apple Crisp Mini Cheesecakes are a show-stopping dessert that delivers big flavor in a small package. With the cozy warmth of spiced apples and the silky richness of cheesecake, they offer a comforting and satisfying bite that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Get creative with toppings, enjoy the make-ahead convenience, and savor the seasonal goodness in every forkful.