Apple Cheesecake Pie is a delectable dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the comforting flavors of spiced apples, all nestled in a yogurt-based pie crust. This dessert is a delightful fusion of two beloved classics – cheesecake and apple pie. The smooth and tangy cheesecake filling, along with the sweet and spiced apple slices, create a harmonious blend of flavors that will satisfy any sweet tooth.

The origins of Apple Cheesecake Pie can be traced back to the United States, where both cheesecake and apple pie are popular and cherished desserts. Combining the two desserts likely arose as a way to offer a unique and innovative twist on traditional apple pie. As the popularity of cheesecake grew over the years, bakers and cooks experimented with incorporating different fruits and flavors into this creamy dessert. The addition of spiced apples to the cheesecake filling and baking it in a pie crust became a delightful way to enjoy the best of both worlds.

This delicious dessert quickly gained popularity, especially during the fall season when apples are abundant and in their prime. Apple Cheesecake Pie became a favorite treat for holiday gatherings, family celebrations, and special occasions.

Today, Apple Cheesecake Pie continues to be a beloved dessert, appreciated for its delightful taste and the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. It is a wonderful addition to any dessert table and a great way to showcase the flavors of the season.

INGREDIENTS

FOR FILLING:

• 6 ounces light or reduced-fat cream cheese, at room temperature
• 1 cup powdered sweetener (e.g., stevia) or additional sugar, to taste
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp maple extract
• 1 large apple, sliced very thinly
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tbs brown sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground ginger

YOGURT PIE CRUST:

• 2 cups flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp sweetener (e.g., sugar or erythritol)
• 4 tablespoons cold butter
• 1 cup low-fat plain yogurt

INSTRUCTIONS

FOR FILLING:

1. In a bowl, stir together the room temperature cream cheese, powdered sweetener, 1 tsp of lemon juice, vanilla extract, and maple extract until smooth and well combined. Set the cheesecake filling aside.
2. In another bowl, combine the thinly sliced apple, 1 tsp of lemon juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and ground ginger. Stir until the spices and sugar are evenly distributed among the apple slices.

YOGURT PIE CRUST:

1. In a bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sweetener, and whisk them together.
2. Add the cold butter to the dry ingredients and work it into the mixture until it forms coarse crumbs.
3. Fold in the low-fat plain yogurt until a dough forms.

FOR ASSEMBLY:

1. Roll the pie dough into a thin rectangle, approximately 8×10 inches in size.
2. Place the rectangle on a flat baking pan and fold the edges to create a barrier for the filling.
3. Spread the prepared cheesecake filling over the dough, making sure it covers the entire surface.
4. Arrange the spiced apple slices on top of the cheesecake filling.
5. Bake the pie at 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius) for 15-20 minutes or until the pie crust turns golden brown and is fully cooked.
6. Allow the Apple Cheesecake Pie to cool before serving.

Enjoy the delightful combination of creamy cheesecake and spiced apples in this scrumptious Apple Cheesecake Pie! It’s the perfect dessert for any occasion, and the flavors will surely impress your taste buds.