If you’re craving the flavors of fall in a dessert that’s as easy as it is impressive, look no further than this No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake. Imagine a luscious, creamy cheesecake filling perched on a buttery graham crust, crowned with sweet apple pie topping and just a hint of cinnamon. All that classic apple pie nostalgia, fused with the simplicity of a no-bake cheesecake—no oven required! It’s the perfect treat for cozy family gatherings, potlucks with friends, or any day you want a little something extra special to end your meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
You won’t believe how effortlessly you can bring this showstopper together with just a handful of pantry staples and fridge favorites. Every ingredient truly has its moment to shine in this No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake, giving you that perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, and spiced sweetness.
- Graham cracker crumbs: The foundation of your cheesecake, providing that iconic cookie crunch and mild, honeyed flavor.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the crust just right, balancing out the creaminess of the filling.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Acts as the glue for your crust, bringing everything together with rich, buttery goodness.
- Cream cheese, softened: The star of the filling—make sure it’s softened so your cheesecake turns out ultra smooth and lump-free.
- Powdered sugar: Gives sweetness to the filling without any grit, for that classic velvety cheesecake bite.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a mellow, aromatic warmth that lifts the whole dessert.
- Heavy whipping cream: When whipped, it creates a light, airy texture that makes the filling almost cloud-like.
- Apple pie filling: Instant apple pie flavor, complete with tender apples and syrupy sauce; feel free to use your favorite homemade version!
- Ground cinnamon: Just a sprinkle infuses the apples with cozy, comforting spice that tastes like autumn in every bite.
- Caramel sauce (optional): A decadent finishing touch—drizzle generously for true caramel apple bliss.
How to Make No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake
Step 1: Build the Buttery Graham Crust
Start by combining your graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar in a medium bowl—the texture should be even, with no big clumps. Add the melted butter and stir until everything’s fully moistened, much like damp sand on a summer day at the beach. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan; use the flat bottom of a measuring cup for the most even layer. Slide the pan into the refrigerator, allowing the crust to chill and set while you get going on your dreamy cheesecake filling.
Step 2: Whip Up the Creamy Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, grab your softened cream cheese and give it a good beating until it’s super smooth—lumps are the enemy here! Next, mix in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until everything is silky and thoroughly combined. This forms the tangy-sweet backbone of your cheesecake. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form; you want more structure than soft peaks, so the filling stands up proudly when sliced. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, being careful not to overmix (you want it fluffy, not deflated!). Spread this billowy layer evenly over your chilled crust.
Step 3: Top with Apple Pie Filling and Cinnamon Spice
Now for the part that gives your No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake its unmistakable autumn personality: Stir the ground cinnamon into your apple pie filling for an extra boost of cozy flavor. Spoon the spiced apples evenly over the cheesecake layer, letting a bit of the syrup swirl into the filling if you’re feeling extra decadent. Cover the pan and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or, for the very best texture, overnight. The wait is worth it!
Step 4: Finishing Touches
Just before serving, unleash your inner dessert artist and drizzle caramel sauce over the apple topping, letting it ripple down the sides for that irresistible look. If you want to add crunch, sprinkle over a handful of toasted pecans—totally optional, but absolutely delicious. And that’s it: You have a beautiful No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake ready to wow everyone at the table.
How to Serve No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake
Garnishes
There’s nothing quite like finishing off your masterpiece with a few eye-catching—and flavor-boosting—garnishes. A generous drizzle of caramel sauce is always a crowd-pleaser, especially as it pairs so well with the apple and cinnamon notes. For texture, try adding a handful of chopped toasted pecans or even a sprinkle of extra graham cracker crumbs. A little dollop of whipped cream on the side never hurts, and if you really want a restaurant-style look, a dusting of ground cinnamon right before serving gives it that special touch.
Side Dishes
This No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake is rich enough to stand on its own, but if you’re planning a big get-together, consider serving it alongside lighter, palate-cleansing options. Fresh fruit like sliced strawberries, crisp grapes, or even a tart apple salad add contrast and keep things feeling bright. For a full-on fall feast, offer coffee or spiced apple cider for sipping—each complements the flavors of the cheesecake in a cozy, satisfying way.
Creative Ways to Present
You can lay out this cheesecake as a classic springform pan showpiece, but why not get playful? Divide the crust, filling, and toppings among mini jars or glasses for individual no-bake cheesecakes—ideal for parties or potlucks! You could also use a square pan, slice into bars, and serve on a platter for a pass-around dessert. Or, for a rustic twist, mound the cheesecake filling in tart shells and top each with a spoonful of the apple pie mixture. However you serve it, you’ll capture the cozy spirit of homemade pie and cheesecake all in one delicious bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake keeps beautifully in the refrigerator, making it perfect for prepping in advance or sneaking a late-night treat. Simply cover your cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days, and the flavors actually deepen as they chill, making your next slice even better than the first.
Freezing
If you need to plan way ahead, this dessert also freezes like a dream. Wrap the entire cheesecake (or individual slices) securely in plastic wrap, then in foil, and pop it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight. Just keep in mind that the apple topping may get a little softer after freezing, but the taste will still be divine.
Reheating
No reheating is needed for No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake—that’s the beauty of this recipe! Serve it chilled straight from the fridge for the best texture. If it’s been frozen, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator. If you like your cheesecake closer to room temperature, let it sit out for 15 to 20 minutes before slicing for a creamier, silkier bite.
FAQs
Can I use homemade apple pie filling for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’ve got a batch of homemade apple pie filling, use 2 to 2 1/2 cups in place of the canned version. Fresh apples, extra cinnamon, and your favorite spices will make your No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake even more special.
What if I don’t have a springform pan?
No worries at all. You can build your cheesecake in a standard 9-inch pie dish or even an 8×8 baking pan. Just line the pan with parchment for easier removal, and note that the slices may be a little less tall but every bit as delicious.
Can I make No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, and it’s actually best when made ahead! Chilling for at least 4 hours (or overnight) helps the flavors meld and allows the cheesecake to set for clean, picture-perfect slices.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can easily swap out regular graham crackers for your favorite gluten-free brand. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free, so you’ll still get the full cheesecake experience without any gluten worries.
Is there a way to reduce the sweetness?
If you prefer a less sweet dessert, use a low-sugar or unsweetened apple pie filling and reduce the powdered sugar in the cheesecake filling by a few tablespoons. The tanginess of the cream cheese will stand out even more, and you’ll still get all that apple pie flavor.
Final Thoughts
With its delightful layers and irresistible apple-caramel combination, this No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake is guaranteed to be the star of any dessert table. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite way to enjoy both apple pie and cheesecake, all with almost no effort at all. Invite friends, grab a fork, and let the compliments roll in!
Print
No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (includes chilling)
- Yield: 10 slices 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delicious fusion of apple pie and cheesecake with this easy no-bake recipe. Creamy cheesecake filling atop a graham cracker crust, topped with cinnamon-spiced apple pie filling and a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Ingredients
Graham Cracker Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
Topping:
- 1 can (21 ounces) apple pie filling
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Caramel sauce for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
- Graham Cracker Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar. Stir in melted butter until mixture resembles wet sand. Press firmly into a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust. Chill in the refrigerator.
- Cheesecake Filling: Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract; beat until well combined. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream to stiff peaks. Gently fold whipped cream into cream cheese mixture until smooth. Spread filling over chilled crust.
- Topping: Stir ground cinnamon into apple pie filling. Spoon over cheesecake layer. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
- Before serving, drizzle with caramel sauce if desired.
Notes
- For extra crunch, sprinkle chopped toasted pecans on top before serving.
- Use homemade apple pie filling if preferred.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 19g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
