In the midst of a busy week, I found myself craving something warm and cozy, which led me straight to these delightful Apple Cheesecake Crumble Buns. Imagine soft, flaky dough cradling a creamy cheesecake filling and tender apple pieces, all topped with a crunchy oat crumble. This irresistible dessert treat not only elevates any gathering but also satisfies the sweet tooth on a quiet evening at home. Plus, the recipe offers flexible options—swap in pears or mixed berries for a fresh twist, and you can even make it dairy-free without sacrificing flavor. Ready to indulge your senses and impress your loved ones? Let’s dive into making these delightful buns together! Why are these buns so amazing? Irresistible Flavor: The harmonious blend of creamy cheesecake and spiced apples creates a flavor explosion that’s both comforting and joyful. Easy Preparation: Unlike many gourmet treats, these buns are simple to make, ensuring that you’ll impress without the stress. Customizable Options: Whether you prefer pears or mixed berries, this recipe adapts beautifully, making it perfect for any season or mood. Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Serve these buns at gatherings, and watch them disappear—they’re a hit with family and friends! Flexible & Fun: Whether you’re looking for gluten-free or dairy-free alternatives, this recipe has got you covered, so everyone can enjoy a delightful bite. Plus, if you enjoy cozy desserts, be sure to check out our Cinnamon Swirl Apple or Key Lime Cheesecake recipes for more delicious inspiration! Apple Cheesecake Crumble Buns Ingredients For the Dough All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the dough; can be swapped with a gluten-free flour blend for those seeking a gluten-free option. Sugar (1 tbsp + 1/4 cup) – The first adds sweetness in the dough, while the second enhances the cheesecake filling; consider coconut sugar for a lower-glycemic treat. Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Essential leavening agents that help the buns rise beautifully. Salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the buns. Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and tenderness; ensure it’s chilled for flakiness; can be substituted with vegan butter for a dairy-free version. Buttermilk – Moistens the dough and adds a hint of tang; a dairy-free alternative works perfectly here. Apple – Infuses natural sweetness and moisture; feel free to replace it with pears or mixed berries for a delightful variation. Cinnamon – Warms up the dough with a cozy spice; nutmeg or allspice can be delicious substitutes. For the Cheesecake Filling Cream Cheese – Creates the creamy cheesecake filling; consider dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan option. Egg – Binds the filling together and helps it set; for a vegan alternative, use flax seed meal or applesauce. Vanilla Extract – Adds depth and richness to the cheesecake flavor. For the Crumble Topping Rolled Oats – Provide a crunchy texture to the topping; adjust to your preference for more or less crunch. Brown Sugar – Sweetens and creates a beautiful caramel flavor in the crumble; equal parts with oats work best for balance. With these Apple Cheesecake Crumble Buns ingredients at hand, you’re all set to craft an irresistible dessert treat your family and friends will adore! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Cheesecake Crumble Buns Irresistible Dessert Treat Step 1: Prepare the Dough In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Next, cut in the chilled unsalted butter using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the buttermilk, diced apple, and cinnamon; mix until everything is just combined, making sure not to overwork the dough. Step 2: Make Cheesecake Filling In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese and 1/4 cup of sugar together with a hand mixer until smooth and creamy. Add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well incorporated and free of lumps. This delicious filling will give your Apple Cheesecake Crumble Buns their luscious texture, so ensure it’s thoroughly blended together. Step 3: Roll and Shape the Dough On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/2 inch thick. Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the dough into squares, approximately 3 inches each. Place a generous tablespoon of the cheesecake filling in the center of each square, then fold the dough over to encase the filling and seal the edges well, ensuring that they don’t leak during baking. Step 4: Prepare Crumble Topping In a small mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, brown sugar, melted butter, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Use a fork or your hands to mix until you achieve a crumbly texture. This topping is what adds that delightful crunch to your Apple Cheesecake Crumble Buns, enhancing each bite with sweet, oat-infused goodness. Step 5: Bake Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the assembled buns on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a bit apart. Generously sprinkle the crumble topping over each bun, ensuring an even layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the buns are golden brown and the crumble is crisp. Step 6: Cool and Serve Once baked, remove the Apple Cheesecake Crumble Buns from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This resting period helps them firm up a bit. Serve warm, optionally dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with caramel, to truly elevate this irresistible dessert treat. Storage Tips for Apple Cheesecake Crumble Buns Room Temperature: Store any leftover buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their soft texture and flavor. Fridge: If you’d like to keep them longer, you can refrigerate the buns for up to a week; just store them in an airtight container to prevent drying out. Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the Apple Cheesecake Crumble Buns tightly in plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Label and date the packages for easy tracking. Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain that fresh-baked texture. Expert Tips for the Best Apple Cheesecake Crumble Buns • Chill the Butter: Make sure your unsalted butter is well-chilled. This is key for achieving that perfect flaky texture in your Apple Cheesecake Crumble Buns. • Avoid Overmixing: Mix the dough just until combined. Overworking it can lead to chewy buns instead of light and tender ones. • Check Your Oven Temp: Oven temperatures can vary. Keep an eye on your buns during baking to achieve that golden brown color without burning. • Seal Well: When folding over the dough to encase the cheesecake filling, seal the edges tightly to avoid any leaks during baking. • Storage Tips: To keep your buns fresh, store them in an airtight container to maintain their softness and flavor for up to 2 days. • Freeze for Later: If you plan to make a batch ahead of time, tightly wrap plain or filled buns in plastic wrap before freezing to preserve their irresistible taste and texture. Apple Cheesecake Crumble Buns Variations & Substitutions Feel free to explore creative twists and delightful alternatives that will make these buns truly your own! Fruit Swap: Use pears or mixed berries instead of apples for a fresh flavor profile that excites the palate. Just imagine biting into a soft bun bursting with berry goodness! Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute dairy-filled ingredients like unsalted butter and cream cheese with vegan alternatives. You won’t miss the dairy, but you’ll still savor all the rich flavors! Gluten-Free Version: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to dietary needs without losing that lovely texture. Everyone can enjoy these buns together! Flavor Boost: Add a dash of nutmeg or allspice to the dough for an added layer of warm spice. It’s a simple change that turns this treat into a seasonal delight! Cheese Change: Experiment by using mascarpone or ricotta cheese in place of cream cheese for a different creamy filling. Each bite will bring a fresh taste experience! Sweetness Level: Adjust the sugar by trying coconut sugar for a lower-glycemic option that doesn’t compromise on sweetness. Healthy never tasted so good! Crumble Variety: For texture twists, consider adding chopped nuts or seeds to the crumble topping for a satisfying crunch that brings a whole new vibe to every bite. Heat It Up: If you like a little spice in your life, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the cinnamon for a surprisingly delightful kick that warms your soul. Incorporate these variations to make your Apple Cheesecake Crumble Buns unique and savor the excitement! And while you’re at it, don’t forget to check out our delectable Cinnamon Swirl Apple and refreshing Tropical Pineapple Coconut recipes for more delicious inspirations. What to Serve with Apple Cheesecake Crumble Buns Indulge in the comforting warmth and delightful crunch of these sweet treats while pairing them with delicious sides that complete your meal. Fresh Berries: A bowl of mixed berries adds a refreshing, tart contrast, cutting through the sweetness of the buns beautifully. Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream melts deliciously over warm buns, creating a heavenly combination of textures and flavors. Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds a luxurious touch, enhancing the creamy cheesecake filling and making each bite even more decadent. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over the buns intensifies their sweetness and provides an extra layer of indulgence that’s hard to resist. Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: A simple sprinkle of cinnamon sugar elevates the flavor profile and adds a touch of warmth, perfect for cozy gatherings. Herbal Tea: Serve with a soothing cup of herbal tea; its subtle flavors beautifully complement the spiced apple and creamy filling of the buns. Coffee: A rich cup of coffee contrasts nicely with the sweetness, making it an ideal pairing for breakfast or an afternoon treat. Enjoy it black or with cream for extra indulgence! Cheese Platter: An assortment of mild cheeses pairs excellently; their creamy textures balance the sweet and fruity notes of the buns. These delightful Apple Cheesecake Crumble Buns will shine even brighter when thoughtfully paired, ensuring a blissful experience for you and your loved ones! Make Ahead Options These Apple Cheesecake Crumble Buns are an absolute lifesaver for busy home cooks! You can prepare the dough and cheesecake filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate. The filling can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge as well. If you’re short on time, you can even assemble the buns entirely and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days before baking. Just remember to cover them with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, take them out, sprinkle with crumble topping, and pop them in the oven for a freshly baked treat that’s just as delicious as when made from scratch! Apple Cheesecake Crumble Buns Recipe FAQs How can I choose the right apples for my buns? Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, opt for firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They hold their shape well during baking and offer a nice balance of sweetness and tartness. If you prefer a sweeter profile, Fuji apples are a great choice too! What is the best way to store leftover Apple Cheesecake Crumble Buns? To keep your buns fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need them to last longer, placing them in the fridge can extend their life to about a week—just make sure the container is sealed tightly to prevent drying out. Can I freeze Apple Cheesecake Crumble Buns? Yes, you can! For freezing, wrap the baked buns tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil to preserve their texture and flavor. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. What if my dough is too sticky? If your dough becomes too sticky while mixing, don’t worry! Lightly sprinkle some flour on your work surface and on your hands. This will help you maneuver the dough without adding too much flour, which could make the buns dense. Remember to mix until just combined to maintain that tender texture! Are these buns gluten-free? Absolutely! You can easily make gluten-free Apple Cheesecake Crumble Buns by swapping the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that your baking powder and any other ingredients used are also gluten-free. Enjoy a soft, delicious treat that everyone can enjoy! Can I make these buns dairy-free? Very much so! To create a dairy-free version, substitute the unsalted butter for vegan butter and use dairy-free cream cheese in the filling. Additionally, opt for a dairy-free buttermilk made by mixing plant-based milk with a splash of vinegar. Enjoy a delightful dessert that’s friendly for various dietary needs! Apple Cheesecake Crumble Buns Irresistible Dessert Delight Indulge in these Apple Cheesecake Crumble Buns, featuring creamy cheesecake and spiced apples in a flaky dough, topped with a crunchy oat crumble. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsCooling Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr Servings: 12 bunsCourse: DessertCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Dough2 cups all-purpose flour can be swapped with gluten-free flour blend1 tbsp sugar adds sweetness to the dough1/4 cup sugar enhances cheesecake filling1 tbsp baking powder essential leavening agent1 tsp baking soda essential leavening agent1/2 tsp salt enhances flavor1/2 cup unsalted butter chilled, can be substituted with vegan butter1/2 cup buttermilk dairy-free alternative works here1 cup apple can replace with pears or mixed berries1 tsp cinnamon cozy spice, can substitute with nutmeg or allspiceFor the Cheesecake Filling8 oz cream cheese consider dairy-free cream cheese for vegan option1 large egg use flax seed meal or applesauce for vegan1 tsp vanilla extract adds depth to flavorFor the Crumble Topping1 cup rolled oats adjust for desired crunch1/2 cup brown sugar creates caramel flavor Equipment mixing bowlpastry cutterSharp KnifeBaking sheetParchment paper Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.Cut in the chilled unsalted butter using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.Gradually add the buttermilk, diced apple, and cinnamon; mix until just combined.In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese and 1/4 cup of sugar together until smooth and creamy.Add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well incorporated.On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/2 inch thick and cut into squares, approximately 3 inches each.Place a generous tablespoon of the cheesecake filling in the center of each square, then fold over to encase the filling and seal edges.In a small mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon. Mix until crumbly.Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.Arrange the assembled buns on the baking sheet, sprinkle crumble topping over each bun.Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and the crumble is crisp.Remove from oven and allow to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1bunCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 3gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 2gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesStore in an airtight container to maintain softness and flavor for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
