If you’re searching for that one dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds, look no further than the Bester Apfel Käsekuchen mit Keksboden und Streusel Recipe. This apple cheesecake combines a crunchy, buttery cookie crust with a creamy, tangy cheese filling and tender chunks of cinnamon-spiced apples, all topped off by irresistibly crumbly streusel. It’s a celebration of textures and flavors that feels both comforting and indulgent, perfect for cozy gatherings or whenever you want to treat yourself to something truly special. Once you taste it, you’ll understand why this recipe holds a special place in many hearts.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the spice-kissed cookie base to the luscious cheese filling and the sweet apple topping. Each component works in harmony to create that perfect balance of flavor and texture.
- 160 g Spekulatius or Lotus Biscoff cookies: These spiced cookies give the crust a rich, deep flavor and wonderful crunch.
- 70 g melted butter: Binds the cookie crumbs together and adds richness to the crust.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances the sweetness and flavors overall.
- 3 tart apples: Necessary for that bright, fresh fruitiness that cuts through the creaminess.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Keeps the apples from browning and adds a subtle tang.
- 3 tablespoons sugar: Sweetens the apple mixture just right.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: Infuses the apples with classic warmth and spice.
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg: Adds a hint of nutty complexity to the apple topping.
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch: Helps thicken the apple mixture for perfect texture.
- 2 tablespoons water or rum (Calvados or Amaretto): Enhances flavor and softens the apples slightly.
- 2 packs (360 g) full-fat cream cheese: The creamy heart of the cheesecake that gives it richness and smoothness.
- 120 g sour cream (Schmand): Adds a luscious tangy depth to the cheese filling.
- 2 medium eggs: Bind the filling together while keeping it airy.
- 110 g sugar: Sweetens the cheese mixture without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings a delicate aromatic sweetness.
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch: Stabilizes the filling to keep it from being too soft.
- 90 g flour: Base for the streusel, giving structure to the topping.
- 45 g rolled oats: Adds a lovely chew and rustic texture to the streusel.
- 90 g brown sugar: Gives the streusel a deep, caramel-like sweetness.
- 60 g cold butter: Cut into the dry ingredients for that crumbly streusel topping.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: Perfectly spices the streusel for warmth and aroma.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweet streusel flavors.
How to Make Bester Apfel Käsekuchen mit Keksboden und Streusel Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Boden (Crust)
Start by finely grinding the Spekulatius or Lotus Biscoff cookies until they resemble fine crumbs full of spices and caramel notes. Stir in the melted butter and a pinch of salt to create a compact, buttery mixture. Press this firmly into the base of a springform pan and then pop it into the fridge for a quick chill. This chilling helps the crust set so it stays firm under the creamy filling.
Step 2: Cooking the Apples
While the crust chills, dice the tart apples into cozy little pieces. Toss them in a saucepan with the lemon juice, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cornstarch, and your choice of water or a splash of rum (Calvados or Amaretto work beautifully for an adult twist). Gently simmer just until the mixture thickens nicely but the apples keep their shape—you want tender apple chunks, not mush! These fruit pieces will lend bursts of flavor and texture that’s impossible not to love.
Step 3: Whipping the Cheese Filling
In a large bowl, beat the full-fat cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the sugar and mix gently, then incorporate the eggs one at a time, making sure each is well blended before adding the next. Stir in the sour cream, vanilla extract, and cornstarch to create a velvety, lightly sweet filling. Be careful not to overmix here; the goal is creamy texture without air pockets or cracks during baking.
Step 4: Making the Streusel
Combine the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Toss in cold butter cubes and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to crumble everything together until large crumbs form. This streusel topping will bake to a golden, buttery crown that adds crunch and a caramelized sweetness your guests will rave about.
Step 5: Assembling the Kuchen
Spread the cheese filling evenly over the chilled cookie crust. Dollop the warm apple mixture on top and swirl gently into the cheesecake layer if you like a marbled effect, or leave it in soft mounds—the choice is yours! Then generously sprinkle the streusel all over. Don’t be shy; the streusel is just as important as what’s beneath it for that perfect bite.
Step 6: Baking to Perfection
Bake your masterpiece at 160 °C with fan (Umluft) for about 55 to 65 minutes. Keep an eye on the streusel during the last 15 minutes; if it starts to brown too quickly, carefully place a loose tent of foil over the top to protect it. After baking, turn off the oven and leave the cake inside with the door slightly open to cool down slowly—this prevents cracking and helps settle the flavors beautifully.
How to Serve Bester Apfel Käsekuchen mit Keksboden und Streusel Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of extra cinnamon on top enhances the rustic look and flavor without overpowering the cake. Fresh apple slices or a dollop of whipped cream on the side are lovely touches for a pretty presentation and added indulgence.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake shines on its own, but a cup of strong coffee or a warmly spiced tea complements the cinnamon and creamy cheese beautifully. For something more festive, a glass of sweet Riesling or a chilled glass of apple cider pairs wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving slices with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a spoonful of homemade vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience. For a brunch twist, cut into mini servings and top each with a tiny mint leaf or a sprinkle of crushed nuts to add texture and a burst of color.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It stays delicious for up to 4 days while maintaining that lovely texture. The flavors actually deepen and meld together as it rests!
Freezing
If you want to prepare ahead, the cheesecake freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. It keeps beautifully for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for best flavor and texture.
Reheating
This cake is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, but if you prefer it slightly warm, briefly heat individual slices in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds. Avoid overheating to keep the perfect creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use regular biscuits for the crust instead of Spekulatius?
Absolutely! While Spekulatius adds a special spiced note, you can substitute with Lotus Biscoff, graham crackers, or even digestive biscuits for a deliciously crunchy base with a milder flavor.
Is it okay to use low-fat cream cheese or quark?
For the richest and creamiest texture, full-fat cream cheese is recommended. Using low-fat versions or quark may result in a less creamy filling and could affect baking stability.
How can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
Substituting dairy ingredients is possible but challenging due to the cheesecake’s creamy nature. Plant-based cream cheese and sour cream alternatives, along with flax eggs, can work, but results may vary. It’s worth experimenting if you’re experienced with vegan baking.
Can I prepare the apple topping in advance?
Yes! You can cook the apple mixture a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just bring it back to room temperature before assembling the cake to ensure even baking and the best texture.
Why did my streusel become soggy?
Soggy streusel usually happens if added too early or if there is excess moisture from the filling. Make sure to spread streusel just before baking and use the exact proportions of ingredients to keep that crunchy finish.
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve discovered how to make the Bester Apfel Käsekuchen mit Keksboden und Streusel Recipe, I encourage you to dive in and bake this gem yourself. It’s not just a dessert but an experience loaded with fruity freshness, cozy spices, and creamy indulgence that will brighten any occasion. Have fun with it, share it generously, and enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Delicious Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German
Description
Dieser köstliche Apfel Käsekuchen verbindet eine knusprige Keksbodenbasis mit einer cremigen Frischkäsefüllung, fruchtigen Apfelstücken und süßen Streuseln. Perfekt für alle Kaffeetafeln, vereint er klassische Aromen mit einer angenehmen Textur in einem unverwechselbaren Dessert.
Ingredients
Keksboden
- 160 g Spekulatius oder Lotus Biscoff
- 70 g Butter, geschmolzen
- Prise Salz
Apfelfüllung
- 3 säuerliche Äpfel
- 1 EL Zitronensaft
- 3 EL Zucker
- 1 TL Zimt
- ¼ TL Muskatnuss
- 2 TL Speisestärke
- 2 EL Wasser oder Rum (Calvados oder Amaretto)
Käsefüllung
- 2 Pck (360 g) Frischkäse, vollfett
- 120 g Schmand
- 2 Eier (Größe M)
- 110 g Zucker
- 1 TL Vanilleextrakt
- 2 TL Speisestärke
Streusel
- 90 g Mehl
- 45 g Haferflocken
- 90 g brauner Zucker
- 60 g kalte Butter
- 1 TL Zimt
- 1 Prise Salz
Instructions
- Boden vorbereiten: Kekse fein mahlen und mit der geschmolzenen Butter sowie einer Prise Salz gut vermengen. Die Masse gleichmäßig in eine Springform drücken und für kurze Zeit kalt stellen.
- Apfelfüllung kochen: Äpfel würfeln und mit Zitronensaft, Zucker, Zimt, Muskatnuss, Speisestärke und Wasser oder Rum in einem Topf kurz köcheln lassen, bis die Mischung leicht andickt, dabei Apfelstücke nicht zerfallen lassen.
- Käsefüllung zubereiten: Frischkäse cremig rühren, Zucker einrühren und anschließend die Eier einzeln unterrühren. Danach Schmand, Vanilleextrakt und Speisestärke hinzufügen und alles vorsichtig vermengen, ohne zu stark zu mixen.
- Streusel herstellen: Mehl, Haferflocken, braunen Zucker, Zimt und Salz zusammengeben und mit kalter Butter zu Streuseln verkneten.
- Kuchen zusammensetzen: Die Käsemasse auf dem Keksboden verteilen, die Apfelmasse darauf geben und optional leicht in der Käsemasse verteilen. Die Streusel großzügig darüberstreuen.
- Backen: Den Kuchen bei 160 °C Umluft für etwa 55–65 Minuten backen. Wenn die Streusel zu dunkel werden, den Kuchen locker mit Alufolie abdecken. Anschließend im ausgeschalteten Ofen mit leicht geöffneter Tür langsam abkühlen lassen.
Notes
- Für den Boden eignen sich Gewürzkekse wie Spekulatius oder Lotus Biscoff besonders gut.
- Die Äpfel sollten säuerlich sein, um einen schönen Geschmackskontrast zur süßen Füllung zu bieten.
- Die Apfelstücke sollen beim Köcheln nur leicht andicken und nicht zerfallen, um Stückigkeit im Kuchen zu behalten.
- Die Käsefüllung nicht zu stark mixen, damit sie cremig bleibt und keine Luftbläschen entstehen.
- Beim Backen Streusel im Auge behalten, damit sie nicht zu dunkel werden – bei Bedarf Alufolie verwenden.
- Der Kuchen schmeckt nach dem Abkühlen am besten, da die Aromen durchgezogen sind.
