In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, cinnamon (if using), and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture resembles wet sand.
Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, making sure it’s packed tightly and evenly.
Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
2. Cook the Apple Topping:
While the crust is cooling, heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using).
Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until the apples are tender and caramelized. The sugar should dissolve into a syrup. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Set aside to cool.
3. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
Add the brown sugar and vanilla extract, and continue mixing until well combined.
Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Add the sour cream, heavy cream, and flour (if using), and mix until everything is smooth and fully incorporated.
4. Assemble the Cheesecake:
Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled graham cracker crust in the springform pan. Use a spatula to spread the filling evenly.
Place the cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for 55-65 minutes, or until the center is set and only slightly jiggles when gently shaken. The edges should be lightly golden, and a toothpick or knife inserted into the center should come out mostly clean, with just a few moist crumbs.
Once baked, turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for about 1 hour. This helps prevent cracking.
5. Chill the Cheesecake:
After the cheesecake has cooled for an hour, remove it from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow it to fully set.
6. Top with Apples:
Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, carefully remove it from the springform pan.
Spoon the caramelized apple topping over the top of the cheesecake just before serving. You can garnish with additional cinnamon or a dollop of whipped cream if desired.
