No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake: Easy Fall Dessert Recipe

This No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake combines the creamy, rich flavor of cheesecake with the cozy, spiced taste of apple pie, making it the ideal dessert for fall gatherings. Easy to make, no baking required (except for the crust), and packed with seasonal flavors, this dessert will become a holiday favorite. Whether you’re preparing for Thanksgiving, Friendsgiving, or just a cozy evening at home, this recipe is the perfect treat to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Why You’ll Love This No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake

This No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake is an absolute game-changer. The best part? You don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen. With a simple graham cracker crust, a smooth, creamy cheesecake filling, and a flavorful apple topping, it offers the best of both worlds—apple pie and cheesecake in one indulgent dessert. The combination of cinnamon, apples, and cream cheese creates a rich, mouthwatering experience, and it’s all made without the hassle of baking.

Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it as an evening treat, this no-bake cheesecake will surely impress. And, the optional homemade caramel sauce and vanilla ice cream will take this dessert to the next level of deliciousness.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to create your No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake:

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

• Graham crackers: Provide the perfect crunchy base for the cheesecake.
• Unsalted butter: Helps to bind the crust together while adding richness.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the crust just enough.
• Ground cinnamon: Adds a warm, aromatic flavor to the crust.

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• Philadelphia Cream Cheese: The main ingredient that makes the filling rich and creamy.
• Lite Cool Whip: Adds fluffiness and lightness to the cheesecake filling.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling and balances the tang of the cream cheese.
• Ground cinnamon: Complements the apple topping with a warm spice flavor.

For the Apple Pie Topping:

• Unsalted butter: For sautéing the apples and creating a smooth sauce.
• Apples: Gala apples are preferred for their mild sweetness, but any variety works.
• Water: Used to dissolve the cornstarch for a smooth topping.
• Cornstarch: Thickens the apple topping.
• Light brown sugar: Adds a subtle caramel flavor to the apples.
• Ground cinnamon: Enhances the autumn spices in the topping.
• Vanilla extract: Adds depth to the apple topping.

Optional Caramel Sauce & Vanilla Ice Cream:

• Granulated sugar: The base for the caramel sauce.
• Unsalted butter: Creates a smooth caramel.
• Heavy whipping cream: Makes the caramel creamy and indulgent.
• Vanilla ice cream: For serving and adding extra richness.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking to tweak the recipe for dietary preferences or ingredient availability, here are a few substitutions:
• Graham crackers: Swap with gluten-free graham crackers for a gluten-free crust.
• Cool Whip: Use whipped heavy cream if you prefer a more natural option.
• Apples: Use Granny Smith apples for a tart contrast to the sweetness of the cheesecake.
• Caramel sauce: If you’re short on time, store-bought caramel sauce can be a convenient alternative.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust: Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a mixing bowl, combine crushed graham crackers, melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake the crust for 12 minutes or until golden brown, then set it aside to cool.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat softened Philadelphia Cream Cheese and Cool Whip on medium speed. Gradually add sugar and cinnamon until the mixture is smooth. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled graham cracker crust and refrigerate for at least 3 ½ hours, or overnight for best results.
3. Prepare the Apple Pie Topping: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chopped apples and cook for 6-8 minutes until tender. In a small bowl, mix water and cornstarch, then add it to the apples. Stir in the brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes until it thickens. Let the topping cool for 5 minutes before pouring it over the chilled cheesecake.
4. Optional Caramel Sauce: To make the caramel sauce, heat sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Once it starts to melt and brown, whisk in butter until smooth. Slowly pour in heavy whipping cream, whisking constantly. Remove from heat and allow to cool for 10 minutes. Drizzle over individual slices of cheesecake and top with vanilla ice cream.

Tips & Tricks

• Chill the cheesecake thoroughly: For the best texture, make sure the cheesecake is fully set before serving. Let it chill in the fridge for at least 3 ½ hours, or even overnight.
• Texture checks: The cheesecake filling should be smooth and thick, while the apple topping should have a syrupy consistency that clings to the apples.
• Caramel sauce: For a smoother caramel sauce, be sure to stir constantly when adding the heavy cream, as it can separate if not combined properly.
• Storage: The cheesecake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, while the caramel sauce will last for up to 2 weeks.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

This No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake is delicious on its own, but here are a few ideas to elevate your dessert experience:
• Side dishes: Serve with a warm cup of spiced cider or coffee for a cozy autumn treat.
• Toppings: Try a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of chopped pecans for added texture.
• Variations: For a more decadent version, drizzle additional caramel sauce over the entire cheesecake before serving.
• Make-ahead tip: You can assemble the cheesecake and refrigerate it the day before your event, saving you time on the big day.

Why This No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake is a Fall Must-Have

Perfect for Thanksgiving or any autumn celebration, this No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake combines the best flavors of the season. The rich creaminess of the cheesecake, paired with the spiced apple topping, creates a dessert that’s both comforting and indulgent. With minimal prep time and no baking (aside from the crust), it’s a simple yet impressive treat that will have everyone asking for seconds. Try this dessert at your next gathering—you won’t regret it!

Conclusion

This No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake is a deliciously easy way to combine two classic desserts into one irresistible treat. Perfect for any fall occasion, from Thanksgiving to casual family dinners, this dessert offers the warm, comforting flavors of apple pie and the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake. With minimal effort, you can create a show-stopping dessert that’s sure to impress your guests. Whether served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of homemade caramel sauce, it’s the ideal way to close any meal with a sweet note.

Try this recipe today, and experience the magic of autumn in every bite. It’s simple, indulgent, and the ultimate crowd-pleaser!

Frequently Asked Questions

More Relevant Recipes

• Apple Pie Snickerdoodles: These soft, cinnamon-sugar-coated cookies capture the essence of apple pie in every bite. With a hint of apple flavor and plenty of spice, they’re a perfect complement to your No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake, offering a portable and fun take on the same fall flavors.
• Easy Apple Crisp Bars: For another apple-inspired treat, these Apple Crisp Bars feature a crunchy oat topping over a sweet, cinnamon-spiced apple filling. They’re perfect for anyone who enjoys the warm, comforting flavors of apple pie but wants something a little different from traditional pie or cheesecake.
• No-Bake Peppermint Cheesecake: If you love no-bake cheesecakes, this peppermint version adds a festive twist to the classic recipe. With a creamy, minty filling and a crunchy chocolate crust, it’s an ideal alternative if you’re looking to switch up the flavors while maintaining the same no-bake convenience.

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