VEGAN APPLE CRUMBLE CHEESECAKE

If you’re looking for a dessert that combines creamy decadence with the comforting flavors of fall, then our Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake is just what you need. This delightful recipe brings together a luscious cashew-tofu filling, sweet cinnamon-spiced apples, and a crunchy biscoff crust, making it an absolute favorite in my kitchen. It’s perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply wanting to treat yourself after a long week.

What makes this cheesecake even more special is how simple it is to prepare. You can whip it up on a busy weeknight or make it ahead for those special gatherings. Trust me; everyone will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Creamy: The combination of cashews and silken tofu creates a rich and creamy filling that rivals traditional cheesecake!
• Easily Customizable: Add your favorite nuts or spices to make this cheesecake uniquely yours.
• Family-Friendly: Even non-vegans will love this dessert. It’s sure to please everyone at the table!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and let the flavors meld overnight for an even tastier treat.
• Simple Ingredients: With easy-to-find ingredients, you won’t have to search far to create this delicious dessert.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll gather:

For the Crust

• 330 g vegan-friendly cookies (e.g., Biscoff cookies)
• 150 g vegan butter/margarine or coconut oil (melted)

For the Apple Filling

• 3 large apples (peeled and diced)
• 50 g brown sugar (¼ cup)
• 1 tsp cinnamon powder
• 2 tsp cornstarch

For the Crumble Topping

• 68 g all-purpose flour (½ cup + 1 tbsp)
• 50 g brown sugar (¼ cup)
• 70 g vegan butter or coconut oil
• 40 g oats (6½ tbsp)
• ½ cup chopped nuts
• ¼ tsp cinnamon powder

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 260 g cashews (unsalted and preferably raw)
• 250 g firm silken tofu
• ½ cup maple syrup or sugar
• ¾ cup vegan yogurt (or more silken tofu, blended)
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp salt

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to experiment with different flavors and textures.

• Try Different Fruits: Swap apples for pears or berries for a unique twist on the classic flavor.
• Add Spices: A pinch of nutmeg or ginger can add warmth and depth to the filling.
• Nut-Free Option: Use sunflower seeds instead of nuts in the crumble topping for a nut-free version.
• Swap Sweeteners: Play around with different sweeteners like agave syrup or coconut sugar.

How to Make VEGAN APPLE CRUMBLE CHEESECAKE

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Crush your vegan cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a ziplock bag and smashing them with a rolling pin. Combine these crumbs with melted vegan butter until well mixed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan. This crust will provide a delicious base that holds everything together beautifully.

Step 2: Make the Apple Filling

In a medium bowl, toss your diced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon powder, and cornstarch. This not only adds sweetness but also helps thicken the filling as it cooks. Spread this mixture evenly over your prepared crust.

Step 3: Create the Crumble Topping

In another bowl, mix together flour, brown sugar, melted butter or coconut oil, oats, chopped nuts, and cinnamon powder until crumbly. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the apple filling; this topping adds texture and flavor that complements the smooth cheesecake layer perfectly.

Step 4: Blend the Cheesecake Filling

In your blender or food processor, combine soaked cashews, silken tofu, maple syrup (or sugar), vegan yogurt, lemon juice, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend until completely smooth; this is where all that creamy goodness comes from! Pour this filling over the apple crumble layers in the pan.

Step 5: Bake Your Creation

Bake in your preheated oven for about 75 minutes until set and lightly golden on top. Let it cool down before refrigerating it for several hours—or overnight—for best results. This patience allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully!

Enjoy every slice of your Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake! It’s not just dessert; it’s a heartfelt experience shared with loved ones.

Pro Tips for Making VEGAN APPLE CRUMBLE CHEESECAKE

Making a Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake is a delightful experience, and with a few simple tips, you can elevate your baking game even further!

• Choose the right apples: Opt for a mix of sweet and tart apples, like Granny Smith and Fuji. This balance will create a more complex flavor profile in your cheesecake.

• Soak cashews ahead of time: Soaking cashews in water for at least 4 hours (or overnight) will help achieve that ultra-creamy texture in your cheesecake filling. The smoother the blend, the better!

• Let it chill: After baking, allow your cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating it. Chilling not only helps set the cheesecake but also enhances the flavors.

• Don’t skip the lemon juice: Adding lemon juice to your filling brightens up the flavors beautifully. It cuts through the creaminess and adds a refreshing tang.

• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings! Consider adding vegan whipped cream or fresh fruit to make each slice extra special.

How to Serve VEGAN APPLE CRUMBLE CHEESECAKE

Serving this Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake is just as important as making it. Presentation can turn an already delicious dessert into an unforgettable experience!

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and nuttiness.
• Vegan whipped cream: A dollop of homemade or store-bought vegan whipped cream can enhance the creamy texture and add an extra layer of indulgence.
• Fresh apple slices: Thinly sliced apples arranged on top not only look beautiful but also echo the flavors within the cheesecake.

Side Dishes

• Vegan vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vegan ice cream complements the warm flavors of the cheesecake perfectly and adds a delightful contrast in temperature.
• Coconut yogurt: Serve alongside a small bowl of coconut yogurt for a refreshing side that balances the richness of the cheesecake.
• Fruit salad: A light fruit salad with seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the dense cheesecake and adds a burst of color to your plate.
• Herbal tea: Pairing this dessert with a soothing cup of herbal tea, like chamomile or peppermint, can provide a calming finish to your meal.

Enjoy serving this delightful Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake at your next gathering or simply treat yourself after a long day!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it ahead of time, making it an ideal dessert for gatherings or a special treat during the week. Here’s how to store and enjoy your cheesecake over time:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cheesecake to cool completely before storing.
• Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• Slice the cheesecake into individual portions for easy thawing.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best quality, consume within 1 month.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw the cheesecake slices in the refrigerator overnight.
• Enjoy cold, or warm them up slightly in a microwave on low power (about 10-15 seconds) if you prefer a warmed dessert.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about our Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake that might help you out!

Can I make this Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your cookies are also gluten-free.

How do I know when the cheesecake is done baking?

The cheesecake is done when the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. It will firm up as it cools.

Can I use different fruits instead of apples?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with other fruits like pears or berries. Just adjust sweetness according to your taste preference.

What is the shelf life of Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake?

When stored properly in the fridge, this cheesecake lasts about 5 days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to make this Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake as I am! It’s such a delightful combination of flavors and textures that everyone will love—vegan or not. Enjoy crafting this delicious dessert, and let it bring joy to your table. Don’t forget to share your creations; I would love to hear how yours turned out!