0.5cupunsalted butter, melted (plus extra for greasing)
0.25cupbrown sugar (for crust)
28-ounce packagescream cheese, softened to room temperature
1cupgranulated sugar
1teaspoonpure vanilla extract
2largeeggs, at room temperature
2cupsapples, peeled, cored, and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
1teaspoonground cinnamon
0.25teaspoonground nutmeg
1tablespoonfresh lemon juice
1cupold-fashioned oats
0.25cupall-purpose flour
0.25cupbrown sugar (for topping)
0.25teaspoonsalt
Instructions
Prepare the Crust: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup brown sugar. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated and moistened.
Press the Crust: Grease the sides of a 9-inch springform pan with a little butter. Firmly press the crumb mixture into the bottom of the pan to create a compact, even layer. Place it in the oven and bake for 10 minutes, then remove and let it cool slightly.
Make the Apple Filling: In a separate medium bowl, toss the diced apples with ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice until well coated. Set this mixture aside to allow the flavors to meld.
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to mix until homogenous. Add the eggs one at a time, blending well after each addition.
Combine the Mixtures: Gently fold the spiced apple mixture into the cream cheese batter, ensuring even distribution without overmixing.
Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust in the springform pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the edges are set while the center remains slightly jiggly.
Prepare the Crisp Topping: In a separate bowl, mix together oats, flour, 1/4 cup brown sugar, and salt. Drizzle in the remaining melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add the Topping: After 45 minutes of baking, carefully sprinkle the crisp topping evenly over the surface of the cheesecake. Return the cheesecake to the oven and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the topping is golden and bubbly.
Cool and Chill: Once baked, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for about 1 hour. For optimal flavor and texture, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Serve: Once chilled, release the sides of the springform pan. Slice the cheesecake into wedges and serve cold, optionally garnished with freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special touch.
Notes
For an elegant touch, drizzle with caramel sauce and sprinkle with cinnamon before serving.