Gin-soaked Blackberry & Apple Cheesecake Crumble Slice

The Gin-soaked Blackberry & Apple Cheesecake Crumble Slice is a delightful dessert that combines the tangy sweetness of blackberries and apples with a smooth cheesecake filling, all topped with a crunchy crumble. This recipe offers a unique twist with the addition of gin, enhancing the flavors and making it a perfect treat for gatherings or a cozy night in.

Why Make This Recipe

This cheesecake crumble slice is easy to make and showcases seasonal fruits, making it not only delicious but also visually appealing. The layers of flavor and texture come together beautifully, satisfying any sweet tooth. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging, this dessert will impress your friends and family.

How to Make Gin-soaked Blackberry & Apple Cheesecake Crumble Slice

Ingredients:

200g blackberries
100ml gin (or sloe gin)
2 tbsp sugar
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
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 tbsp lemon juice

Directions:

Step 1: In a container, toss the blackberries with gin and sugar. Let them soak for a few hours, then strain.

Step 2: Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Line a 20cm square baking tin with parchment paper. In a saucepan, combine the diced apples, water, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and brown sugar. Simmer for 5 minutes. Mix cornstarch with water, add to the apples, stir in the leftover gin, and simmer for another 5 minutes.

Step 3: In a bowl, mix the brown sugar, flour, baking powder, oats, and melted butter until the mixture resembles sandy crumbs. Reserve 1/3 of this mixture for the topping. Press the remaining 2/3 into the bottom of the prepared baking tin.

Step 4: Beat the cream cheese with icing sugar, egg, vanilla, and lemon juice until smooth. Spread this mixture over the crumble base.

Step 5: Scatter the soaked blackberries over the cream cheese layer, then add the cooked apples on top. Finally, sprinkle the reserved crumble and flaked almonds over everything.

Step 6: Bake for 20 minutes, then add the flaked almonds and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden. Cool for 1 hour and refrigerate before slicing into squares.

How to Serve Gin-soaked Blackberry & Apple Cheesecake Crumble Slice

Serve the cheesecake crumble slice chilled, cut into neat squares. It pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.

How to Store Gin-soaked Blackberry & Apple Cheesecake Crumble Slice

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. You can also freeze slices; simply thaw them in the fridge before serving.

Tips to Make Gin-soaked Blackberry & Apple Cheesecake Crumble Slice

Make sure to let the blackberries soak long enough to absorb the flavors of the gin.
For a richer flavor, you can use a flavored liqueur instead of gin.
For easier slicing, allow the cheesecake crumble slice to chill in the fridge before cutting.

Variation

For a different flavor, consider using seasonal fruits such as peaches or blueberries instead of blackberries, or swap gin for another spirit like rum.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen blackberries?
A: Yes, you can use frozen blackberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them before using in the recipe.

Q: Is it okay to skip the gin?
A: Absolutely! You can omit the gin if you prefer a non-alcoholic version, and the dessert will still taste great.

Q: How can I make this gluten-free?
A: You can substitute the plain flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free.

This Gin-soaked Blackberry & Apple Cheesecake Crumble Slice is sure to be a hit. With its fruity flavors and creamy texture, it’s a dessert worth making for any occasion!