– For the Crust:
– 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– For the Cheesecake Filling:
– 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– ¾ cup apple cider
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
– For the Topping:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– ¼ cup powdered sugar
– Ground cinnamon for dusting
– Caramel sauce (optional)
Creating the Apple Cider Cheesecake can be simple by following these easy steps:
1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon. Mix well until crumbs are fully coated.
3. Press the Crust: Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and set aside to cool.
4. Make the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Slowly add sugar and mix until well combined.
5. Add Apple Cider and Eggs: Gradually mix in the apple cider, followed by the eggs, one at a time. Then, add the vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until just combined.
6. Pour Filling: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
7. Bake: Place the cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. The edges should be set, while the center may slightly jiggle.
8. Cool the Cheesecake: Once done, turn off the oven and crack the door. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for about 1 hour to prevent cracking.
9. Chill: Remove from the oven and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or preferably overnight for the best texture.
10. Prepare Topping: When ready to serve, beat the heavy whipping cream in a mixing bowl until soft peaks form. Add the powdered sugar and mix until combined.
11. Top the Cheesecake: Spread the whipped cream over the top of the chilled cheesecake. Optionally, drizzle with caramel sauce and sprinkle with ground cinnamon.
By following these steps, you’ll create a delicious Apple Cider Cheesecake that will leave everyone coming back for seconds.