Name: Apple Crisp Cheesecake Bread
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 70 min
Total time: 130 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup light brown sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter (softened); ½ cup milk (or cream); 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ¼ teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 2 cups diced firm apples (like Granny Smith or Honey Crisp); 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 8 ounces cream cheese (softened); ½ cup granulated sugar; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; ½ cup quick-cooking oats; ⅓ cup light brown sugar; ½ teaspoon cinnamon; ⅛ teaspoon nutmeg; ⅓ cup unsalted butter (melted)

As the warm scent of cinnamon and baked apples fills the air, I can’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia wash over me. This Apple Crisp Cheesecake Bread not only combines the best elements of a comforting fall dessert, but it does so with such ease that it’s perfect for any home chef. Each slice is a delightful surprise, revealing tender apple chunks and a luscious cream cheese filling, all topped with a crunchy, golden crisp. What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility—it’s great for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack! Plus, it’s a cinch to whip up, making it ideal for those busy mornings or cozy gatherings. Are you ready to dive into the layers of flavor and elegance this recipe has to offer?

Why Is This Recipe a Must-Try?

Moist and Flavorful: The combination of juicy apples and rich cream cheese filling creates an incredibly moist bread that bursts with flavor.

Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip this up without any advanced baking skills.

Versatile Enjoyment: Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or as a sweet afternoon treat—this bread fits anytime!

Nostalgic Aroma: The warm scents of cinnamon and baked apples will fill your home, making it an instant fall favorite.

Perfect for Sharing: With its delightful layers and crispy topping, it’s sure to impress family and friends at any gathering.

Craving more delicious apple recipes? Try our Apple Brownies Decadent for an extra treat!

Apple Crisp Cheesecake Bread Ingredients

• Dive into the delightful world of flavors with these Apple Crisp Cheesecake Bread ingredients!

For the Bread

Apples – Firm varieties like Granny Smith and Honey Crisp work best for flavor and texture.
All-Purpose Flour – The foundation of the bread’s structure; gluten-free flour could be an option.
Quick-Cooking Oats – Adds chewiness to the topping; rolled oats are a suitable substitute.
Light Brown Sugar – Brings sweetness and moisture; white sugar can be used but alters flavor depth.
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness; margarine or vegan butter can be swapped in.
Cinnamon & Nutmeg – Spices that enhance apple flavor; adjust to your personal taste!
Eggs – Essential for binding; no substitutes recommended for structural integrity.
Milk (or cream) – Provides moisture to the batter; try a non-dairy milk for a different twist.

For the Cheesecake Filling

Cream Cheese – Creates a luscious cheesecake layer; mascarpone can serve as an alternative.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the filling, perfect for balancing flavors; consider coconut sugar as a substitute for a lower glycemic index.

For the Crisp Topping

Light Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and contributes to that delightful crispy layer.
Cinnamon – Enhances the topping with warm notes; feel free to increase for extra spice.
Unsalted Butter – Melts into the topping, helping it crisp up beautifully; margarine can be a good alternative.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Apple Crisp Cheesecake Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Crisp Topping
In a mixing bowl, combine ½ cup flour, ¾ cup quick-cooking oats, ⅓ cup light brown sugar, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, and ⅛ teaspoon nutmeg. Pour in ⅓ cup melted unsalted butter, mixing until crumbly. Place the crisp mixture in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to set while you prepare the bread batter.

Step 2: Make the Bread Dough
In a large bowl, cream together ½ cup unsalted butter and 1 cup light brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add in 2 large eggs and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, mixing until well incorporated. Gradually fold in 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and ½ teaspoon salt, alternating with ½ cup milk until just combined. Set the dough aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a medium bowl, beat together 8 ounces of softened cream cheese and ½ cup granulated sugar until smooth. Add 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, mixing well. Finally, blend in 1 egg until the mixture is creamy and fully combined, creating the luscious cheesecake layer for your Apple Crisp Cheesecake Bread.

Step 4: Toss Apples
In another bowl, add 2 cups of diced firm apples (like Granny Smith or Honey Crisp). Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon cinnamon and 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, tossing gently to coat each apple piece evenly. This step will enhance the fruit’s flavor and complement the other layers of the Apple Crisp Cheesecake Bread.

Step 5: Assemble Bread in a Prepared Loaf Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-cup loaf pan and layer half of the bread dough on the bottom. Spread half of the apple mixture evenly over the dough, followed by the cheesecake filling. Add the remaining bread dough on top, followed by the last of the apples. Finish by sprinkling the chilled crisp mixture over the entire top for that delightful crunch.

Step 6: Bake
Place the assembled Apple Crisp Cheesecake Bread in the preheated oven and bake for 55-70 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. If the top browns too quickly, tent with foil during the last 15 minutes of baking to ensure the inside cooks perfectly.

Step 7: Cool & Glaze
Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 20-30 minutes. Carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. While it cools, prepare a simple glaze with 1 cup of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 2-3 tablespoons of milk, then drizzle over the cooled Apple Crisp Cheesecake Bread for a sweet finishing touch.

What to Serve with Apple Crisp Cheesecake Bread

As you savor the delicious layers of this delightful bread, it’s time to create a memorable meal that complements each bite beautifully.

Warm Spiced Apple Cider: A fragrant cup of warm spiced apple cider echoes the flavors of the cheesecake bread while adding a cozy touch, perfect for fall gatherings.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream balances the sweetness and adds a lovely contrast to the warm bread. Drizzling caramel sauce over the top enhances this dessert-style pairing.
Homemade Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, fresh whipped cream provides an airy contrast to the dense bread, making it a decadent addition to any slice.
Candied Pecans: These sweet and crunchy nuts introduce a delightful textural element that perfectly complements the moist bread, enhancing its nutty undertones.
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: The smooth, savory flavors of this soup provide a lovely counterbalance to the sweetness of the apple crisp cheesecake bread. It’s a warming option to start off your meal beautifully.
Fruity Salad: A bright fruit salad with citrus elements adds a refreshing pop that cuts through the richness of the bread, making it a light and joyful companion.
Earl Grey Tea: The bergamot notes in Earl Grey tea create a sophisticated pairing that complements the spices in the bread, making it a delightful afternoon treat.
Chai Latte: Warm and spiced, a chai latte enhances the comforting flavors of fall and makes for an enjoyable sip alongside your bread.

By serving these delicious accompaniments, you’ll create a full experience that celebrates the delightful flavors of the Apple Crisp Cheesecake Bread!

Make Ahead Options

These Apple Crisp Cheesecake Bread are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the crisp topping by mixing the dry ingredients and melted butter up to 3 days in advance; store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its crunch. Additionally, the apple mixture can be tossed and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply make the bread dough and cheesecake filling, layer everything in your prepared loaf pan, and pop it in the oven. You’ll enjoy the same delicious flavors with minimal effort, making this delightful treat perfect for any occasion!

Expert Tips for Apple Crisp Cheesecake Bread

Choose the Right Apples: Use firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honey Crisp for the best flavor. Avoid overly soft apples, which can turn mushy during baking.
Keep Ingredients Cold: For a crisp topping, ensure the butter is chilled before mixing. This helps create that delightful crunch on top of your bread.
Avoid Overmixing: When combining the bread dough, mix until just incorporated to keep the loaf tender. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
Temperature Matters: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking throughout the Apple Crisp Cheesecake Bread and prevents sogginess.
Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check the center; if it comes out clean, your bread is done. If it takes longer than 70 minutes, don’t rush it!
Cooling Is Key: Let the bread cool in the pan to set and prevent crumbling. This extra time makes a huge difference in texture.

Apple Crisp Cheesecake Bread Variations

Feel free to play around with this delightful recipe and make it your own!

Other Fruits: Swap out apples for pears or peaches for a fruity twist. Each fruit brings its own sweetness and can transform the loaf completely. Try mixing these fruits together for an unexpected flavor burst!
Ricotta Filling: Replace cream cheese with ricotta for a lighter cheesecake layer. This variation introduces a creamy texture with a subtle flavor, giving a fresh spin to the classic bread.
Muffin Bites: Transform the bread into muffins for an easy, handheld treat. Just adjust the baking time to around 20-25 minutes for perfectly portable bites.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans into the crisp topping for an extra layer of texture. The nuts add both crunch and a delightful nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the bread.
Spiced Up: Increase the cinnamon and nutmeg for a bolder flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, throw in a pinch of cayenne for a gentle warmth that’ll keep your taste buds excited.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cooled bread for a decadent touch. The richness of the chocolate complements the sweetness of the apples beautifully.
Dairy-Free Delight: Use a plant-based cream cheese alternative and almond milk for a fully dairy-free version. This keeps all the richness without compromising on flavor.
Sweet Maple Glaze: Replace the vanilla frosting with a maple glaze made from powdered sugar, maple syrup, and milk. This brings a cozy autumn flavor that is simply irresistible!

Want to indulge in more recipes? Try our Oatmeal Apple Breakfast for a wholesome start to your day!

Storage Tips for Apple Crisp Cheesecake Bread

Room Temperature: Allow the bread to cool completely and store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain moisture.

Fridge: Due to the cream cheese filling, keep the bread in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 5 days when wrapped tightly.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bread for up to 3 months. Wrap it well in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: To enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes for that freshly baked taste.

Apple Crisp Cheesecake Bread Recipe FAQs

What types of apples work best for this recipe?
Absolutely! Firm varieties like Granny Smith, Honey Crisp, or Fuji are perfect for this Apple Crisp Cheesecake Bread. They hold their shape while baking and offer a lovely balance of tartness and sweetness. However, feel free to use any apples you have on hand!

How should I store leftover Apple Crisp Cheesecake Bread?
Very well! To keep your bread fresh, store it in the refrigerator due to the cream cheese filling. It will stay delicious for up to 5 days when wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or placed in an airtight container to maintain its moisture.

Can I freeze Apple Crisp Cheesecake Bread?
Definitely! For long-term storage, wrap the bread well in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, and freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight, and reheat slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for that freshly-baked flavor.

What if my bread comes out too dense?
Oh dear! If your Apple Crisp Cheesecake Bread turns out dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter. Make sure to mix just until the ingredients are combined. Also, using fresh ingredients like baking powder can help provide a lighter texture.

Can I substitute any ingredients for dietary reasons?
Absolutely! If you have dietary restrictions, you can make several substitutions. Use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour, non-dairy milk for milk, and consider replacing cream cheese with mascarpone for a lighter filling. If you’re vegan, flax eggs can work as a binder in place of regular eggs.

How long should I cool the bread before glazing it?
You should allow the bread to cool in the pan for 20-30 minutes after baking. This cooling period helps it set properly and makes it easier to transfer to a wire rack without crumbling. After it has cooled completely, drizzle with glaze, and enjoy!