Apple cinnamon cheesecake delight—creamy, spiced, and layered with cozy fall flavors. A no-bake treat perfect for holidays or family gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With a few pantry staples and clever shortcuts, you’ll find that the magic of this dessert lies as much in its ease as its flavors. Each ingredient plays an essential role in delivering both rich textures and classic tastes that define this crowd-pleaser.
- Cinnamon graham cracker crumbs (2 cups): These set the stage with a crisp, fragrant base that anchors every creamy layer.
- Melted butter (¼ cup): Butter binds the crumbs, bringing richness and a golden hue to the crust.
- No-bake cheesecake filling (1 container): Ready-to-spread and ultra creamy, this cheat makes the dessert a breeze but still swoon-worthy.
- Instant vanilla pudding mix (1 box, 3.4 oz): Adds an extra layer of sweetness and luscious texture beneath the apples.
- Cold milk (1½ cups): Vital for thickening the pudding, making it perfectly spreadable without weighing down the layers.
- Apple pie filling (1 can, 21 oz): Juicy, spiced apples provide instant comfort and vibrant contrast against the creaminess beneath.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): A final dusting infuses the entire dessert with warmth and subtle spice.
- Cool Whip or homemade whipped cream (1 container): Pillow-soft and fluffy, this topping balances sweetness while offering impressive height.
- Cinnamon sugar and crushed graham crackers (for topping): A little crunch and sparkle finish the Apple Cinnamon Cheesecake Delight in style.
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Cheesecake Delight
Step 1: Build the Cinnamon Graham Cracker Crust
Combine your cinnamon graham cracker crumbs with melted butter in a medium bowl, mixing until all the crumbs are evenly moistened. Once the mixture resembles wet sand, press it firmly into the bottom of a 13×9-inch dish. Use the bottom of a measuring cup or glass to get it nice and even. Pop the dish in the refrigerator for 10 minutes — this gives the crust time to set and ensures those crisp, structured layers when sliced.
Step 2: Spread the Cheesecake Filling
After the crust has chilled, scoop out your no-bake cheesecake filling and smooth it over the base with a spatula. Make sure to spread right to the edges for even bites throughout. This layer is the creamy heart of your Apple Cinnamon Cheesecake Delight, anchoring the richer flavors above.
Step 3: Make and Add the Pudding Layer
In a separate bowl, whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix with cold milk by hand for a couple of minutes until thickened. You want it to be soft but sturdy, so it sits right on top of the cheesecake without sinking. Gently spread the pudding over the cheesecake filling, getting all the way to the edges again for a uniform stack of flavors.
Step 4: Add the Apple Pie Filling and Sprinkle Cinnamon
Carefully spoon the luscious apple pie filling over the pudding layer, making sure the apples are distributed fairly evenly. This way every serving gets plenty of sweet-spiced fruit. Sprinkle a teaspoon of ground cinnamon across the top — don’t be shy, the spice is what pulls all the flavors together!
Step 5: Top with Whipped Cream
Dollop your Cool Whip (or homemade whipped cream) generously on top, then use a spatula to spread it into fluffy peaks. This crown of cream will hold its shape beautifully as the dessert chills and offers the perfect light finish to all those rich layers beneath.
Step 6: Chill and Garnish
Cover your Apple Cinnamon Cheesecake Delight and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour — longer if you have the patience! Just before serving, sprinkle with a dusting of cinnamon sugar and a handful of crushed graham crackers for extra crunch and sparkle. Now, stand back and admire your creation before you dive in!
How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Cheesecake Delight
Garnishes
When it’s time to serve, a flourish of cinnamon sugar and a scattering of crushed graham crackers on the top adds a gorgeous finishing touch and a satisfying crunch. For a pop of color, tuck in a few thin slices of fresh apple or a drizzle of caramel sauce. These simple extras take the presentation — and flavor — up a notch for your Apple Cinnamon Cheesecake Delight.
Side Dishes
This dessert is the showstopper of any table, but if you’re hosting a gathering, pair it with fresh berries or a crisp green apple salad for a refreshing contrast. Strong coffee or hot cider alongside will round out the experience, playing up the warm cinnamon and apple notes in every bite. The balance of creamy, fruity, and fresh makes every serving of Apple Cinnamon Cheesecake Delight feel like an occasion.
Creative Ways to Present
For a playful twist, try assembling your Apple Cinnamon Cheesecake Delight in individual mason jars or parfait glasses for parties or picnics. You could even layer the elements in tall glasses for a trifle effect. If you’re feeling extra festive, pipe the whipped cream on top and sprinkle a touch of edible gold dust for sparkle — it’s a guaranteed conversation starter!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Apple Cinnamon Cheesecake Delight keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to three days. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap, or store individual slices in airtight containers. Chilling preserves those distinct layers, and the flavors actually meld and deepen by the next day, making leftovers even more irresistible.
Freezing
If you want to prepare in advance, you can freeze the Apple Cinnamon Cheesecake Delight before adding the whipped cream topping and garnishes. Wrap tightly in plastic and foil, and freeze for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then add the whipped cream and final toppings before serving for best results.
Reheating
There’s no need for reheating this dessert, as it’s meant to be served chilled. However, if you find the apples are a little too firm from the refrigerator, let the dessert stand at room temperature for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This takes the chill off and brings out the flavors even more.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cheesecake filling instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! If you love making cheesecake from scratch, you can whip up your own no-bake cheesecake base. Just use a combination of softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, a splash of vanilla, and a touch of lemon juice for brightness. Spread it over the crust and proceed as usual.
Is it possible to make Apple Cinnamon Cheesecake Delight gluten-free?
Sure thing! Just substitute gluten-free graham crackers for the crust, and make sure your instant pudding and other ingredients are certified gluten-free. The rest of the recipe works seamlessly for gluten-free guests.
How far ahead can I assemble this dessert?
You can make Apple Cinnamon Cheesecake Delight up to a day in advance, keeping it well-covered in the refrigerator. Just hold off on garnishing with cinnamon sugar and graham cracker crumbs until shortly before serving to maintain that lovely crispy finish.
Can I swap the apple pie filling for another fruit?
Definitely! While apple pie filling is classic and cozy, peach or cherry pie filling would also work splendidly for a seasonal twist. Just be sure to adjust the spices to complement whatever fruit you choose.
Why isn’t the dessert setting properly?
If your layers seem too runny or soft, check that the pudding was fully thickened before spreading and that the crust was adequately chilled. Chilling the assembled dessert for at least an hour (or longer) is key to firming up those layers and achieving that perfect slice of Apple Cinnamon Cheesecake Delight.
Final Thoughts
With layers of comfort and bursts of cinnamon-apple cheer, there’s simply no reason not to treat yourself (and your loved ones) to Apple Cinnamon Cheesecake Delight. Whether it’s a holiday, a potluck, or a Tuesday night that needs a little lift, this dessert promises smiles all around. Give it a try and see just how deliciously simple your new go-to favorite can be!
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Apple Cinnamon Cheesecake Delight Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Apple cinnamon cheesecake delight—creamy, spiced, and layered with cozy fall flavors. A no-bake treat perfect for holidays or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 cups cinnamon graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Cheesecake Layer
- 1 container no-bake cheesecake filling (store-bought, near the cream cheese section)
Pudding Layer
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 1/2 cups cold milk
Apple Layer
- 1 (21 oz) can apple pie filling
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Topping
- 1 container Cool Whip or homemade whipped cream
- Cinnamon sugar (for garnish)
- Crushed graham crackers (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, mix together the cinnamon graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand and is fully combined.
- Chill the Crust: Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 13×9-inch baking dish to form an even layer. Refrigerate for about 10 minutes so the crust can set.
- Add Cheesecake Layer: Evenly spread the no-bake cheesecake filling over the chilled graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to smooth it out, making sure to reach all the edges.
- Make the Pudding: In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk. Whisk for about 2 minutes until the pudding thickens.
- Spread the Pudding Layer: Gently spread the thickened vanilla pudding over the cheesecake layer in the dish, smoothing it out evenly.
- Add Apple Pie Filling: Spoon the apple pie filling evenly over the pudding layer, spreading it to cover.
- Sprinkle with Cinnamon: Evenly sprinkle the ground cinnamon over the top of the apple layer for a warming flavor boost.
- Top with Whipped Cream: Spread a generous layer of Cool Whip or homemade whipped cream over the apple layer, covering completely.
- Chill the Dessert: Place the dessert in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until fully set and cold throughout.
- Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, garnish the top with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar and a handful of crushed graham crackers. Slice and enjoy!
Notes
- Chill longer for cleaner slices; overnight is ideal if you have time.
- You can substitute homemade whipped cream for Cool Whip if preferred.
- Try using low-fat cream cheese filling and light whipped topping for a lighter version.
- Use fresh cinnamon apples instead of canned pie filling for a homemade twist.
- Best served chilled and enjoyed within 2-3 days for ultimate freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/12th of recipe
- Calories: 390 kcal
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 340mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 51g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 25mg