Prepare the Crust:
Preheat the oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
Make the crust:
In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the springform pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let it cool.
Prepare the Apple Pie Filling:
Cook the apples:
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cornstarch, lemon juice, and water. Stir frequently and cook for about 8-10 minutes, until the apples are softened and the mixture has thickened. Let it cool.
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
Beat the cream cheese:
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream.
Swirl cinnamon (optional):
If you like, you can mix 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon into the cheesecake batter for a slight cinnamon swirl.
Assemble the Cheesecake:
Layer the apple pie filling:
Pour half of the cheesecake filling over the graham cracker crust. Gently spoon half of the apple pie filling on top of the cheesecake batter.
Add the second layer:
Pour the remaining cheesecake filling over the apples and then spoon the remaining apple pie filling on top. You can swirl the apple mixture lightly into the cheesecake batter using a knife or leave it as is.
Bake:
Bake the cheesecake:
Wrap the bottom of the springform pan with aluminum foil to prevent water from leaking in. Place the cheesecake in a large roasting pan and add hot water to the pan, about halfway up the sides of the springform pan (water bath method). Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the center is just set and slightly jiggly.
Cool the cheesecake:
Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake in the oven with the door slightly open for 1 hour. Then remove the cheesecake and let it cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Serve:
Slice and enjoy:
Once chilled, slice and serve this decadent Apple Pie Stuffed Cheesecake, combining the best of apple pie and creamy cheesecake in one indulgent dessert!