Nickie's Apple-Pecan Cheesecake

Recipe View 5 mins Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Line a 9x13 inch baking dish with aluminum foil, extending the foil sheets over the sides of the dish. (5 minutes)

Recipe View 10 mins To make the crust, in a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 2 tablespoons of brown sugar. Mix well until evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly and evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish. (10 minutes)

Recipe View 15 mins To make the filling, in a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, 1 cup of brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Beat in the sour cream until well combined. On low speed, add the eggs one at a time, mixing just until each egg is incorporated. Be careful not to overmix. Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the prepared crust. (15 minutes)

Recipe View 10 mins To make the apple-pecan topping, in a separate bowl, combine the chopped apples, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, chopped pecans, and ground cinnamon. Toss gently to ensure the apples are evenly coated. (10 minutes)

Recipe View 5 mins Carefully spoon the apple-pecan mixture evenly over the cheesecake filling. (5 minutes)

Recipe View 1 hrs Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes, or until the center is almost set but still has a slight jiggle. (60 minutes)

Recipe View 1 hrs Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour. This helps prevent cracking. (60 minutes)

Recipe View 30 mins Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. (30 minutes)

Recipe View 4 hrs Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the cheesecake to set completely. (240 minutes)

Recipe View 30 mins Before serving, let the cheesecake sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to soften slightly. Lift the cheesecake from the baking dish using the extended aluminum foil, transfer it to a cutting board or serving plate, and carefully remove the foil. Cut into 16 squares and serve.