Name: Apple Cider Cheesecake Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 10 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups digestive cookies or graham crackers (270g); ½ cup butter, melted (113g); 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 3 cups fresh apple cider (honeycrisp cider is more tart!); mulled spices; 3 cream cheese bricks (227g each), softened and at room temperature; 1 cup brown sugar (220g); ½ teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 1 cup sour cream (240g); 1/3 cup reduced apple cider from above; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 3 large eggs; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

If you’re on the lookout for the ultimate autumn dessert, this Apple Cider Cheesecake is simply bursting with fall flavors and creamy decadence. Imagine the tang of spiced apple cider reduced to a syrup, swirling through a cloud of cheesecake atop a buttery, crispy crust—every bite is a celebration of cozy, orchard-fresh goodness. Whether you’re serving it at a festive gathering or treating yourself on a chilly night, this comforting cheesecake will quickly become your go-to recipe for savoring the best tastes of the season.

Apple Cider Cheesecake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays an essential role—adding depth, richness, or that signature burst of apple flavor. With thoughtful selection, you’ll transform simple staples into an unforgettable Apple Cider Cheesecake that truly tastes like fall.

Digestive cookies or graham crackers (2 cups, 270g): The classic foundation for our crust, lending a nutty sweetness and satisfying crunch.
Butter, melted (1/2 cup, 113g): Holds the crust together while adding buttery richness and golden color.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon for crust, 1/2 teaspoon for filling): Just a pinch brightens all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Powdered sugar (2 tablespoons): Adds just enough sweetness to the crust for a well-rounded flavor.
Fresh apple cider (3 cups): Choose a tart variety like Honeycrisp for the best apple flavor in every bite.
Mulling spices: Infuses the cider reduction with warm, aromatic spices—think cinnamon, clove, and allspice.
Cream cheese bricks (3 bricks, 227g each): This is the secret to ultra-smooth, luscious cheesecake filling.
Brown sugar (1 cup, 220g): Deepens the sweetness with notes of caramel and molasses.
Pure vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Rounds out the edges and brings all the flavors together.
Sour cream (1 cup, 240g): Adds a light tang and extra creaminess to the filling.
Reduced apple cider (1/3 cup, from above): Intensifies the apple flavor and gives the cheesecake a magical hint of orchard vibes.
Cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Lends a cozy, spice-kissed aroma that tastes like fall in every mouthful.
Large eggs (3): Provide structure and velvety texture to your cheesecake.
All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Gives stability, ensuring your cheesecake slices neatly and holds its shape.

How to Make Apple Cider Cheesecake

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

Pour your fresh apple cider into a large pot, toss in your favorite mulling spices, and turn the heat up high. Let it boil away for about one hour, checking occasionally, until it’s been transformed into a thick, glossy syrup with only 1/3 cup remaining. This reduction packs all that bright apple flavor into a few concentrated spoonfuls—the secret of this stunning Apple Cider Cheesecake. Set aside and let it cool while you move on to your crust.

Step 2: Make the Crust

Pulse your digestive cookies or graham crackers in a food processor until they’re finely ground, almost sandy. Add melted butter, a touch of salt, and powdered sugar. Pulse it again until the mixture comes together in soft, damp crumbs. Press these evenly into the bottom and slightly up the sides of a prepared springform or cake pan. Bake at 350 F for 10 minutes for that needed crunch, then let the crust cool and chill to set its structure perfectly before the filling goes in.

Step 3: Beat the Cheesecake Filling

Reduce your oven heat to 325 F. In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the softened cream cheese and brown sugar together until completely smooth and lump-free. Patience is key here—scrape the bowl a few times to ensure that silky texture. Next, incorporate the sour cream, vanilla, salt, cinnamon, and the magical reduced apple cider syrup. Mix until everything is luscious and homogenous. Finally, gently add the eggs and flour, mixing just to combine and not a second more—overbeating can make your cheesecake tough, and you want it dreamy!

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Place your cooled crust in a 13×9-inch roasting pan and carefully pour in your cheesecake batter. This Apple Cider Cheesecake loves gentle baking, so fill the roasting pan with hot water halfway up the sides of your cheesecake pan to create a steamy water bath. Bake for about 90 minutes—just until the outer edges are puffed and set, but the center still wobbles slightly. Resist peeking! When time’s up, turn off the oven, crack the door open with a wooden spoon, and let the cheesecake cool gently for 30 minutes, then close the door and wait another 15. This slow approach keeps your masterpiece free from cracks.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Now for the hardest part—waiting. Let the cheesecake finish cooling completely on your counter, then transfer it to the fridge for at least 8 hours or overnight. This patience pays off: the flavors meld, the texture firms up, and your Apple Cider Cheesecake slices like a dream when it’s finally time to unveil your creation.

How to Serve Apple Cider Cheesecake

Garnishes

For a spectacular finish, dress your Apple Cider Cheesecake with fresh whipped cream, thin slices of crisp apple, and a sprinkle of cinnamon or crushed gingersnaps. A drizzle of extra cider syrup gives it that irresistible bakery look and makes every slice truly decadent.

Side Dishes

Let your cheesecake shine beside cozy hot drinks like spiced chai, mulled cider, or strong black coffee. For a full dessert spread, pair small portions of cheesecake with spiced caramel popcorn or roasted nuts to balance the creaminess with crunch and a bit of salt.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual slices on rustic wooden boards for autumn gatherings, or cut the cheesecake into small bars for an elegant finger-food dessert tray. For an extra wow factor, top each slice with a candied apple chip or swirl of spiced caramel—perfect for making the Apple Cider Cheesecake the star of your dessert table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Apple Cider Cheesecake tightly covered in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh and flavorful for up to five days. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, so slicing into a chilled leftover piece is an autumnal treat all over again.

Freezing

This cheesecake freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices or the whole cake in plastic and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When stored properly, your Apple Cider Cheesecake can last up to two months—simply thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

For best results, allow cheesecake slices to gently come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving—this brings out the creamy texture and lets those spicy apple aromas shine. Avoid reheating in the microwave, which can ruin the silky structure.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought apple cider for this recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought apple cider works perfectly for the recipe. If you can find a tart, unfiltered variety like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith, your Apple Cider Cheesecake will have a wonderfully fresh apple flavor. Just avoid apple juice, which is usually too sweet and lacking in depth.

What are mulling spices and can I use a pre-made blend?

Mulling spices typically include a mix of cinnamon, cloves, allspice, and sometimes nutmeg or orange peel. Using a pre-made blend is completely fine and saves time—just add it to your cider as you reduce it for maximum flavor.

Why do I need to use a water bath for baking?

Baking your cheesecake in a water bath surrounds the pan with gentle, steamy heat, which helps the cheesecake cook evenly and prevents cracks. This technique is especially helpful for dense, custardy desserts like Apple Cider Cheesecake.

How do I know when the cheesecake is finished baking?

You’ll know it’s perfect when the outer 2 to 3 inches look set but the center still jiggles like soft-set jelly when you gently shake the pan. This ensures a creamy, luscious texture once chilled and sliced.

Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?

Definitely! Simply swap out the digestive cookies or graham crackers for your favorite gluten-free variety. Just make sure they’re finely crushed so the crust holds together beautifully.

Final Thoughts

If you love all things cozy, spiced, and a little bit magical, this Apple Cider Cheesecake is your new best baking friend. Invite your loved ones to the table, slice into this gorgeous cheesecake, and savor every autumn-inspired bite—you may just find yourself making it all year round!