Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 6 medium apples (about 3 lbs), peeled, cored, and sliced
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter
  • 3 (8-ounce/225g each) packages cream cheese, softened
  • 1 1/4 cups (250g) granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 large eggs

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into the bottom of the springform pan. Chill for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
  2. Make the Apple Pie Filling: Sauté sliced apples with butter, sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice until softened and slightly caramelized. Set aside to cool slightly.
  3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add sour cream and vanilla extract. Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
  4. Assemble the Cheesecake: Pour half of the cheesecake filling over the graham cracker crust. Top with the apple pie filling. Pour the remaining cheesecake filling over the apples.
  5. Bake the Cheesecake: Wrap the bottom of the springform pan tightly with aluminum foil (to prevent water from seeping in). Place the springform pan in a larger baking sheet. Fill the baking sheet with hot water to create a water bath. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 60-75 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight wobble.
  6. Cool the Cheesecake: Turn off the oven and crack the oven door slightly. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour. Remove from the oven and water bath. Cool completely on a wire rack.
  7. Chill the Cheesecake: Cover the cheesecake and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
  8. Serve: Run a thin knife around the edge of the pan to loosen the cheesecake. Remove the sides of the springform pan. Slice and serve.