Description
Apple Delight is a luscious layered dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth cream cheese cheesecake layer, a warm spiced apple topping, and a fluffy whipped cream finish. This dessert balances creamy, fruity, and sweet flavors, perfect for a special occasion or cozy gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Cheesecake Layer:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipped topping or freshly whipped cream
Apple Topping:
- 4 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons water
Whipped Cream Topping:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form the crust. Bake for 8-10 minutes until set and slightly golden. Remove from oven and let cool completely before adding the next layer.
- Make the Cheesecake Layer: In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the whipped topping or freshly whipped cream to maintain lightness. Spread this cheesecake mixture evenly over the cooled crust. Place in the refrigerator to chill while preparing the apple topping.
- Cook the Apple Topping: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the diced apples, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and water. Stir to combine and cook for 8-10 minutes until the apples soften and become tender, and the mixture forms a syrupy glaze. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.
- Whip the Cream Topping: In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. This will be the luscious topping to finish your dessert.
- Assemble: Once the apple topping is fully cooled, spread it evenly over the cheesecake layer in the baking dish. Dollop or spread the whipped cream topping over the apple layer. Optionally, garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon, crushed graham crackers, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra flair.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to set properly. Serve chilled and enjoy a delightful combination of creamy, fruity, and spiced goodness.
Notes
- Make sure the crust is completely cooled before spreading the cheesecake layer to prevent melting or mixing.
- You can substitute the whipped topping with homemade whipped cream for a fresher taste.
- Adjust spices like cinnamon and nutmeg based on your preference for a milder or stronger flavor.
- This dessert is best served chilled but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a dairy-free option, consider using vegan cream cheese and coconut cream alternatives.
