Ultimate No-Bake Caramel Apple Crumble Cheesecake (Vegan, Gluten-Free & Healthy!)

Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with a dessert that ingeniously combines two beloved classics: the comforting warmth of an apple crisp and the luxurious creaminess of a cheesecake. This **No-Bake Caramel Apple Crumble Cheesecake** is the answer to your dessert dilemmas, offering a healthier twist that doesn’t compromise on flavor or decadence. Imagine layers of a delightful cookie crust, crowned with an incredibly creamy cashew-based cheesecake filling, then generously topped with luscious caramel apples and a perfectly spiced oat crumble. It’s an explosion of textures and flavors in every bite!

What makes this recipe truly special is its commitment to wholesome, plant-based ingredients. It’s crafted **without dairy**, making it a fantastic choice for those following **vegan diets**, and it’s also **refined sugar-free**. Every component, from the rich cashew cream to the naturally sweetened caramel apples, is made with whole-food ingredients, ensuring a dessert that feels indulgent yet supports a healthier lifestyle. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan baker or simply looking for a delicious and accessible dessert for your next gathering, this no-bake wonder is sure to impress.

Creating dessert mash-ups is one of my favorite culinary adventures, and this combination of apple crumble and cheesecake hits all the right notes. Raw vegan cheesecakes were among the first recipes I experimented with when I ventured into whole-foods baking, and they remain a go-to for their simplicity and satisfying results. This recipe builds on that foundation, offering a dessert that feels incredibly special without requiring any oven time.

This no-bake masterpiece starts with a delightful graham cracker-like cookie crust, providing the perfect base for the rich layers to come. Next, a creamy, subtly spiced cashew cheesecake filling is poured, followed by a generous layer of tender, sweet caramel apples. The grand finale is a crunchy, buttery oat crumble, completing the symphony of flavors and textures. Despite its decadent appearance, this **gluten-free, vegan, refined sugar-free, and paleo-friendly** cheesecake is a treat you can feel good about enjoying and sharing.

Watch the Apple Crumble Cheesecake Recipe Video

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Healthy Apple Cheesecake Recipe

This isn’t just another dessert recipe; it’s a culinary experience designed to delight every palate and simplify your baking process. Here’s why this No-Bake Caramel Apple Crumble Cheesecake will become your new favorite:

• A Universal Crowd-Pleaser: This dessert masterfully bridges the gap between different dessert preferences. It will satisfy the most devoted cheesecake enthusiasts, thrill apple crisp and crumble fans with its topping, and even appeal to those who adore classic apple pie. It’s truly a dessert for everyone!
• Incredible Versatility and Customization: While the recipe is perfect as written, it’s also wonderfully adaptable. Feel free to switch up the crust (perhaps a classic graham cracker or a nut-based one), experiment with different spices in the filling, or adjust the sweetness level to your preference. You can even try other fruits!
• Diet-Friendly Decadence: Enjoy a truly indulgent treat that aligns with various dietary needs. This cheesecake is proudly vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, and refined sugar-free. This means no compromise on taste, just wholesome goodness for everyone to enjoy. It’s also suitable for those following a paleo-friendly diet.
• Effortless No-Bake Perfection: Say goodbye to oven failures, cracks, and the dreaded water bath! This cheesecake sets beautifully in the freezer, eliminating the stress of baking. It’s a foolproof method that guarantees a perfect texture every single time, without the need for a traditional pastry pie crust.
• Unforgettable Taste & Texture Profile: Prepare for a symphony of sensations. The cheesecake is **ULTRA creamy** and smooth, bursting with the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg. It’s generously studded with tender apple chunks and topped with a satisfyingly crunchy oat crumble, providing delightful texture in every bite.
• Surprisingly Simple Preparation: Don’t be intimidated by the multiple layers. While there are a few distinct steps, each one is incredibly straightforward and requires minimal effort. If you have a blender and a food processor, you’re halfway there to creating this stunning dessert.
• The Ultimate Make-Ahead Dessert: Planning for a special occasion or simply want to have a delicious treat on hand? This recipe is ideal for making in advance. It requires time to set up and chill in the freezer, making it a perfect, stress-free dessert for fall gatherings, Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any holiday celebration.

How to Make Caramel Apple Crumble Cheesecake: Your Step-by-Step Guide

Crafting this delightful no-bake cheesecake is simpler than you might think. While the full measurements and detailed recipe are available in the recipe card at the bottom of this post, let’s walk through the process and highlight the essential tools that will make your cheesecake journey smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools Needed for Success

Having the right kitchen tools can make all the difference in achieving that perfect cheesecake texture and presentation. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 9″ Springform Pan: This is arguably the most crucial tool for a beautiful cheesecake. Its removable sides allow for effortless release, ensuring your cheesecake comes out with clean, smooth edges and a professional shape. While you *can* use a regular round cake pan lined with parchment paper, it won’t yield the same pristine result or ease of removal. A springform pan is a worthwhile investment for any cheesecake lover!
• High-Powered Blender: For an ultra-creamy, silky-smooth cheesecake filling, a high-powered blender is essential. I’ve personally relied on my Vitamix for years, and it consistently delivers the creamiest results for cashew-based cheesecakes. A less powerful blender might require more soaking time for cashews or result in a slightly grainier texture.
• Food Processor: Another workhorse in my kitchen, a food processor makes quick work of preparing both the crust and the crumble topping. It ensures a consistent crumb texture for the base and perfectly combines the oat crumble ingredients with minimal effort.

Wholesome Ingredients for a Guilt-Free Treat

Every ingredient in this no-bake cheesecake serves a purpose, contributing to its incredible flavor and texture while keeping it healthy and diet-friendly. Here’s a closer look at the stars of the show:

• Cashews: These are the magical base of our cheesecake, transforming into an unbelievably creamy and rich filling once soaked and blended. For the silkiest texture, even with a powerful blender, I highly recommend soaking them first.
• Apples: The heart of our crumble! I often opt for Opal apples because they are wonderfully crisp and sweet, and they resist browning after being cut, maintaining their appealing color. Other crisp, slightly tart apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith would also work beautifully.
• Coconut Yogurt: This provides a lovely tang and additional creaminess to the cheesecake filling. It’s crucial to use a **THICK** coconut yogurt (or Greek yogurt if not strictly vegan) to maintain the right consistency. Brands like Cocojune or Culina are excellent choices.
• Canned Coconut Milk: For the ultimate richness, we use the thick, creamy solid part from the top of a can of full-fat coconut milk. Chilling the can overnight helps separate the cream from the liquid. Don’t discard the leftover liquid; it’s perfect for smoothies!
• Organic Rolled Oats: These wholesome oats are a key component of our crunchy crumble topping. They can also be used to create a delicious homemade crust if you prefer a less processed option.
• Maple Syrup: Our primary natural sweetener, maple syrup lends a beautiful depth of flavor that complements the apples and spices. You can easily substitute it with agave nectar or honey (if not strictly vegan).
• Cinnamon, Vanilla, Sea Salt, Nutmeg: These aromatic spices and flavor enhancers are non-negotiable! Cinnamon and nutmeg bring that quintessential warm, cozy apple pie flavor, while vanilla adds sweetness and depth. A pinch of sea salt perfectly balances all the flavors, preventing the dessert from being overly sweet.
• Coconut Oil: Used in both the crust and the filling, melted coconut oil acts as a binder and helps the cheesecake set firmly. If you prefer, you can substitute it with avocado oil or a high-quality vegan butter.
• Simple Mills Toasted Pecan Cookies: For convenience and a delicious graham cracker-like taste, these cookies make an ideal crust. They save time and effort without sacrificing flavor. However, if you’re inclined to make a homemade crust, a blend of pecans, dates, and oats is a fantastic whole-food alternative (details in the notes section).

Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting Your Caramel Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Follow these simple steps to assemble your incredible no-bake caramel apple crumble cheesecake. Remember, patience with the freezing time is key to perfection!

1. Prepare Your Cashews for Optimal Creaminess

• Start by soaking your raw cashews. Place them in a small pot and cover them with water, ensuring there are about two inches of water above the cashews.
• Bring the water to a rolling boil. Once it reaches boiling point, immediately turn off the heat.
• Let the cashews soak in the hot water for 20-30 minutes. This softens them significantly, ensuring an incredibly smooth and creamy cheesecake filling when blended.

2. Assemble the Flavorful Cookie Crust

• In a food processor, combine your Simple Mills toasted pecan cookies (or similar) and the melted coconut oil.
• Process for about a minute, or until the mixture forms a fine, crumbly texture that holds together when pressed.
• Firmly press this mixture into the bottom of your 9-inch springform pan, creating an even layer. This will form the sturdy and delicious base of your cheesecake.

3. Blend the Silky Cheesecake Filling

• Drain the soaked cashews thoroughly.
• Add all the cheesecake filling ingredients (drained cashews, coconut yogurt, coconut cream, maple syrup, lemon juice, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, melted coconut oil, and a pinch of sea salt) into a high-powered blender.
• Blend for several minutes until the mixture is completely smooth and free of any cashew bits. Stop and scrape down the sides as needed. Taste the mixture and adjust spices or sweetness if desired.
• Pour the velvety cheesecake filling evenly over your prepared crust.
• Carefully place the pan in the freezer for at least 1-2 hours to allow the filling to firm up before adding the caramel apple layer.

4. Create the Irresistible Caramel Apples

• Dice your apples into small, uniform cubes.
• In a small pan, combine the diced apples, 2 teaspoons of coconut oil (or a quick spray of oil), and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon.
• Cook over medium heat for approximately 5 minutes, or until the apples have softened slightly but still retain a bit of their bite. Turn off the heat and set them aside to cool slightly.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the cashew butter, maple syrup, coconut oil, sea salt, vanilla extract, and a touch more cinnamon until you achieve a smooth, creamy caramel sauce.
• Gently fold the softened apples into the caramel mixture.
• Once your cheesecake layer is firm to the touch, carefully spoon the caramel apple topping over it, spreading it out evenly to cover the entire surface.

5. Sprinkle on the Perfect Crumble Topping

• In a large bowl, combine the organic rolled oats, chopped pecans, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and cinnamon for the crumble topping. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and have a crumbly texture.
• Generously sprinkle the crumble mixture over the caramel apple layer of your cheesecake. Gently press it down lightly to ensure it adheres to the caramel.

How to Serve and Store Your No-Bake Cheesecake

To enjoy this no-bake caramel apple crumble cheesecake at its absolute best, a little preparation before serving goes a long way. This ensures the creamiest, most delightful texture.

• Serving: Once you remove the cheesecake from the freezer, allow it to thaw on the counter for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This brief thawing period softens the cheesecake to its optimal creamy consistency, similar to a traditional baked cheesecake. For an extra touch of elegance, you can garnish individual slices with a dusting of cinnamon, a dollop of vegan whipped cream, or a few extra toasted pecans.
• Storing: This cheesecake is an excellent make-ahead dessert! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer. When properly stored, it will last for up to 1-2 months. For easier portioning and serving, you can slice the entire cheesecake after it’s fully set and store the individual slices wrapped in parchment paper and then in an airtight container. This allows you to grab a single slice whenever a craving strikes. If storing in the refrigerator, it will last for about 5-7 days, though the freezer provides the best long-term freshness and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About No-Bake Cheesecake

Here are some common questions you might have when making this delicious no-bake treat:

• Do you have to soak the cashews? While a super powerful blender (like a Vitamix) *might* get away without soaking, I highly recommend soaking your cashews. Soaking ensures the cashews break down completely, resulting in an incredibly smooth, lump-free, and ultra-creamy cheesecake filling – truly indistinguishable from a dairy-based one. It’s a simple step that yields significant benefits in texture! You can easily do this while you’re preparing the crust.
• Can this cheesecake be baked? Unfortunately, no, this specific cheesecake recipe was meticulously formulated to be a no-bake dessert that sets perfectly in the freezer. The ingredients and their ratios are designed for this chilling process, not for oven baking, which would alter the texture and likely lead to a very different (and probably not ideal) result.
• How long does this cheesecake last? When stored properly in an airtight container in the freezer, this no-bake cheesecake will maintain its quality for 1-2 months. In the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for about 5-7 days.
• Can I use different types of fruit? Absolutely! While caramel apples are a classic, you can get creative. Other fruit options for the topping could include a berry compote, peaches, or even a different fall fruit like pears. Just be mindful of their water content and adjust accordingly.
• What are your tips for perfect slices? For clean, professional-looking slices, make sure the cheesecake is thoroughly frozen. Before slicing, run a sharp knife under hot water and wipe it clean between each cut. This helps glide through the layers effortlessly.

More Delicious Vegan & Gluten-Free Desserts You’ll Love!

If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to explore more of our healthy and delicious plant-based dessert creations:

• Vegan Snickers Cheesecake
• Caramel Pumpkin Pecan Cheesecake (Paleo, Vegan)
• Strawberry Cheesecake Yogurt Parfait
• Healthy Protein Cheesecake Jars
• Chocolate Covered Creamy Cheesecake Bites

A Quick Note on Recipe Evolution: Over time, recipes can evolve for the better! I’ve recently updated this recipe slightly. I found a quicker caramel recipe that’s just as delicious and have come to prefer the convenience and taste of the Simple Mills cookie crust, as it genuinely mimics the flavor of graham crackers. However, for those who prefer a completely homemade, whole-food option, I’ve included instructions for a delicious pecan-date-oat crust in the recipe notes below.