VEGAN APPLE CRUMBLE CHEESECAKE

Indulge in our Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake, a delightful blend of creamy cashew-tofu filling, cinnamon-spiced apples, and a crunchy biscoff crust. This dessert is perfect for any occasion, from celebrations to cozy family dinners. Its unique flavor profile and texture make it a standout choice for those seeking a delicious vegan treat that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spiced apples and creamy filling creates a rich taste that satisfies every sweet tooth.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps, this recipe is accessible even for beginner bakers looking to impress.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for holidays, parties, or just a cozy night at home; enjoy it anytime!
• Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients like nuts and fruits, this cheesecake is not only tasty but also nutritious.
• Dairy-Free Delight: Enjoy all the creaminess of cheesecake without any dairy products, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Mixing bowls
• 9-inch springform pan
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Essential for blending cashews and tofu into a smooth filling.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for combining ingredients efficiently without mess.
• 9-inch springform pan: Ideal for easy removal of your cheesecake once it’s set.
• Whisk: Helps in thoroughly mixing dry ingredients and achieving smooth textures.

Ingredients

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

How to Make VEGAN APPLE CRUMBLE CHEESECAKE

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a food processor, blend the vegan cookies until they resemble fine crumbs.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cookie crumbs with melted vegan butter until well mixed.
4. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased springform pan to form an even layer.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes. Remove and let cool.

Step 2: Make the Apple Filling

1. In a medium bowl, mix diced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon powder, and cornstarch until evenly coated.
2. Set aside to allow flavors to meld while you prepare the crumble topping.

Step 3: Prepare the Crumble Topping

1. In another mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, brown sugar, vegan butter or coconut oil, oats, chopped nuts, and cinnamon powder.
2. Use your fingers or a fork to mix until crumbly.

Step 4: Blend the Cheesecake Filling

1. Drain and rinse cashews before adding them to a food processor with firm silken tofu.
2. Add maple syrup (or sugar), vegan yogurt (or extra silken tofu), lemon juice, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and salt.
3. Blend until completely smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Assemble Your Cheesecake

1. Spoon half of the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust.
2. Layer with spiced apple filling evenly across the top.
3. Add remaining cheesecake filling on top of the apples.
4. Sprinkle crumble topping generously over everything.

Step 6: Bake Your Cheesecake

1. Place your assembled cheesecake in the oven at 160°C (320°F).
2. Bake for approximately 75 minutes or until set but slightly jiggly in the center.
3. Turn off the oven but leave cheesecake inside with door ajar for about an hour to cool gradually.

Step 7: Chill Before Serving

Refrigerate your cheesecake for at least four hours—or overnight—for best results before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake!

How to Serve VEGAN APPLE CRUMBLE CHEESECAKE

Serving your Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake can elevate the dessert experience. Here are some delightful ways to present this creamy and fruity treat.

Classic Presentation

• Serve chilled slices of the cheesecake accompanied by a dollop of vegan whipped cream for added creaminess.

Fresh Fruit Garnish

• Top each slice with fresh apple slices or berries for a pop of color and extra flavor.

Drizzle of Maple Syrup

• A light drizzle of maple syrup enhances sweetness, making each bite even more indulgent.

Scoop of Vegan Ice Cream

• Pair with your favorite vegan ice cream for a delicious contrast in temperature and texture.

Crumble Topping

• Sprinkle additional crumble topping over each slice to add a crunchy element that complements the creamy filling.

Coffee or Tea Pairing

• Serve alongside a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea to balance the sweetness and enrich the dessert experience.

How to Perfect VEGAN APPLE CRUMBLE CHEESECAKE

Perfecting your Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake can make all the difference. Here are some tips to ensure it turns out just right.

• Use high-quality ingredients: Opt for organic apples and raw cashews for the best flavor and texture in your cheesecake.
• Soak cashews: Soaking cashews in water for at least 4 hours will help achieve a smoother, creamier filling.
• Chill properly: Allow the cheesecake to chill in the refrigerator overnight for optimal firmness and flavor development.
• Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on your cheesecake while baking; overbaking can lead to cracks in the surface.
• Let it cool gradually: After baking, let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar to prevent sudden temperature changes that cause cracking.

Best Side Dishes for VEGAN APPLE CRUMBLE CHEESECAKE

Pairing side dishes with your Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake can enhance its flavors. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Coconut Cream: Light and fluffy, coconut cream adds a tropical twist that complements the apple flavors beautifully.
2. Mixed Berry Compote: A tangy berry compote can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cheesecake.
3. Chia Seed Pudding: This healthful option offers a nutty flavor and creamy texture that pairs well with dessert.
4. Vegan Chocolate Sauce: A rich chocolate sauce drizzled over each slice adds decadence that’s hard to resist.
5. Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit salad brings freshness and balances sweetness with its natural acidity.
6. Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts offer crunch and an unexpected savory touch that enhances overall taste.
7. Granola Clusters: Crunchy granola clusters can act as an excellent topping or side, adding texture and flavor contrasts.
8. Herbal Tea Blend: A calming herbal tea can cleanse the palate between bites, making every taste memorable.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating a Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake can be simple, but there are common missteps that can affect the final outcome.

• Using the wrong type of cookies: Not all cookies are vegan. Ensure you choose vegan-friendly options like Biscoff to maintain the integrity of your dessert.
• Skipping the soaking of cashews: If you don’t soak cashews beforehand, they won’t blend smoothly, resulting in a grainy texture. Soak them for at least 4 hours or overnight.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science; even slight variations can alter the flavor and texture. Use kitchen scales for precise measurements.
• Overbaking the apples: Cook apples just until softened to avoid mushiness in your cheesecake. Keep an eye on them during cooking to achieve the right consistency.
• Neglecting to chill properly: Failing to let your cheesecake set in the fridge will result in a less firm texture. Chill it for several hours or overnight for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Ensure it’s completely cooled before placing it in the fridge.

Freezing VEGAN APPLE CRUMBLE CHEESECAKE

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating VEGAN APPLE CRUMBLE CHEESECAKE

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm slices for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30-45 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place on low heat in a non-stick pan, cover, and warm slowly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about making and enjoying our Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake.

Can I make VEGAN APPLE CRUMBLE CHEESECAKE gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour blends for a delicious gluten-free option.

How long does VEGAN APPLE CRUMBLE CHEESECAKE last?

When stored properly, this cheesecake will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator or 3 months in the freezer.

Can I use different fruits in this cheesecake?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other fruits like pears or berries for different flavors.

What can I substitute for cashews?

If you have nut allergies or prefer not to use cashews, try using soaked sunflower seeds as an alternative.

Final Thoughts

The Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake is not only creamy and delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize it by adding different fruits or nuts based on your preferences. This delightful dessert is sure to impress anyone who tries it, so don’t hesitate to give it a try!