If you love desserts that combine fruity flavors with a creamy texture, then you are in for a treat! The Gin-soaked Blackberry & Apple Cheesecake Crumble is a delightful dessert that offers a perfect balance of sweetness and a hint of tartness. With layers of juicy blackberries, tender apples, and a creamy cheesecake filling, all topped with a crunchy crumble, this dessert will surely impress your friends and family.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is not only delicious but also simple to make. It’s a fantastic way to use seasonal fruits like blackberries and apples. The addition of gin provides a unique twist that enhances the flavor of the blackberries. Whether you are hosting a gathering or just want to indulge in a comforting dessert at home, this cheesecake crumble is sure to satisfy your sweet cravings.
How to Make Gin-soaked Blackberry & Apple Cheesecake Crumble
Ingredients:
- 200g blackberries
- 100ml gin (or sloe gin)
- 2 tbsp sugar (omit if using sloe gin)
- 500g cooking apples (like Braeburn), peeled, cored, and diced
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 50g light brown sugar
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 50ml water
- 200g light brown sugar for crumble
- 220g plain flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 100g porridge oats
- 200g slightly salted butter, melted
- Flaked almonds for topping
- 250g cream cheese, softened
- 25g icing sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Directions:
- Macerate the blackberries: Toss the blackberries with gin and sugar, and let them soak for a while. After soaking, strain out the gin.
- Prepare the apples: Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F). In a saucepan, combine the diced apples, water, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and brown sugar. Simmer for 5 minutes. Mix cornstarch with a little water, add it to the apples, then stir in the leftover gin, and simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Make the crumble: In a bowl, mix the light brown sugar, flour, baking powder, and oats. Add the melted butter until it looks sandy. Reserve one-third of this mixture for topping, and press the rest into a prepared baking tin.
- Make the cream cheese filling: In another bowl, beat the cream cheese, icing sugar, egg, vanilla, and lemon juice until smooth. Spread this mixture over the crumble base.
- Assemble the slice: Scatter the macerated blackberries over the cream cheese filling. Spoon the cooked apple mixture on top, and sprinkle the reserved crumble and flaked almonds.
- Bake and cool: Bake in the oven for 20 minutes. After that, add the flaked almonds and bake for another 10 minutes. Let it cool in the tin for 1 hour, then refrigerate for a few hours before slicing into squares.
How to Serve Gin-soaked Blackberry & Apple Cheesecake Crumble
This dessert is best served chilled. You can have it as it is or add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side to make it even more indulgent.
How to Store Gin-soaked Blackberry & Apple Cheesecake Crumble
To store your cheesecake crumble, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days. You can also freeze it sliced for up to a month. Just remember to wrap it well!
Tips to Make Gin-soaked Blackberry & Apple Cheesecake Crumble
- Use ripe and juicy blackberries for the best flavor.
- Don’t skip the chilling step; letting the dessert cool improves its texture.
- Feel free to adjust the sweetness by using more or less sugar based on your taste.
Variation
You can substitute gin with lemon juice or apple cider for a non-alcoholic version. Also, you can mix in other berries like raspberries or blueberries for a berry medley!
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen blackberries?
Yes, you can use frozen blackberries. Just thaw them and drain any excess liquid before using.
2. What can I substitute for cream cheese?
You can use mascarpone cheese or Greek yogurt as a substitute for cream cheese.
3. Can I make this dessert in advance?
Absolutely! This dessert can be made a day before serving. Just make sure to refrigerate it properly.
Now you’re ready to create this mouth-watering Gin-soaked Blackberry & Apple Cheesecake Crumble! Enjoy making and sharing this delicious treat!