If you are craving a dessert that balances creamy richness with the fresh, comforting flavors of fall, this Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe is exactly what you need in your baking repertoire. Imagine a buttery graham cracker crust layered with smooth, luscious cheesecake, topped with tender spiced apples and a golden streusel that adds the perfect hint of crunch. These bars offer the best of cheesecake and apple pie in one irresistible bite, guaranteed to delight friends and family alike whether for holidays, gatherings, or a cozy night in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe lies in its simple, thoughtfully chosen ingredients that each play an important role. From the crumbly crust to the creamy filling, to the warm spiced apple layer and crisp topping, every component combines to create an unforgettable harmony of textures and flavors.
- Graham cracker crumbs: Provide a buttery, slightly sweet foundation that holds the crust together beautifully.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens both the crust and filling while balancing the tartness of the apples.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Binds ingredients and adds a rich flavor to the crust and streusel topping.
- Cream cheese, softened: The star of the cheesecake layer, delivering silky texture and tangy richness.
- Eggs: Help set the cheesecake filling perfectly without cracking.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances sweetness with warm, aromatic notes.
- Medium apples, peeled and diced: Bring freshness and tartness; tart apples like Granny Smith work best.
- Brown sugar: Adds caramel undertones to the apples and streusel topping.
- Ground cinnamon and nutmeg: Fill the bars with classic fall spice flavors that you’ll love.
- All-purpose flour and rolled oats: Combine in the streusel for a crisp, crumbly finish.
How to Make Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press this buttery mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan to create a firm crust. Bake for 8 minutes, which helps it set and develop a slight toasty flavor. When done, set it aside to cool just a little before adding the next layers.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until you get a perfectly smooth and creamy texture with no lumps. Add the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Pour this luscious cheesecake batter evenly over the warm crust, gently smoothing the top so it forms a nice, even layer that will support the apples without collapsing.
Step 3: Add the Apple Layer
In a small bowl, toss the diced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This mixture will infuse the fruit with warm spices and caramel notes, creating a delicious complement to the creamy cheesecake below. Evenly spread the apples on top of the cheesecake batter, gently pressing them down so they stick but remain distinct.
Step 4: Sprinkle the Streusel Topping
To finish, mix the flour, brown sugar, rolled oats, and cinnamon in another bowl. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle this crumbly streusel evenly over the apple layer, creating a beautiful golden topping that will bake into a satisfyingly crispy texture.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake everything for 40 to 45 minutes, checking that the center is set but still slightly jiggly – this ensures the cheesecake layer stays moist. The topping should turn a gorgeous golden brown, signaling the perfect balance between tender and crunchy. Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld and the cheesecake firm up for easier slicing.
How to Serve Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce over your Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe adds an elegant finishing touch. Fresh apple slices or a dollop of whipped cream can elevate the presentation and introduce fresh notes that contrast beautifully with the rich bars.
Side Dishes
Pair these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a simple cup of spiced chai or coffee for an inviting fall dessert experience. The creamy ice cream melts into the bars’ warm spices, making every bite a moment of pure indulgence.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the bars into bite-sized squares for party platters or layer them in parfait glasses with additional whipped cream and chopped nuts for a charming layered dessert. These bars also make an impressive addition to a brunch spread alongside fresh fruit and pastries.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your beautifully baked Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This ensures they retain their creamy texture and fresh-spiced flavor. Just make sure to keep them in an airtight container to avoid any absorption of fridge odors.
Freezing
These bars freeze wonderfully if you want to prepare them in advance. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. They will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat chilled bars briefly in a warm oven (around 300°F) for 5 to 10 minutes if you prefer them warm, or enjoy them straight from the fridge as a cool treat. Avoid microwaving to help maintain the textural integrity of the layers and topping.
FAQs
Can I substitute different types of apples in this recipe?
Absolutely! Tart apples like Granny Smith work best because their slight acidity balances the sweet cheesecake, but you can also try Fuji or Honeycrisp for a sweeter, juicier bite. Just be sure to peel and dice them evenly.
Do I need to use parchment paper in the pan?
While parchment paper is not mandatory, it makes removing the bars from the pan much easier and helps keep the bars intact when slicing. If you don’t have it, make sure to grease your pan well.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can! Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs for the crust and substitute the all-purpose flour in the streusel topping with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure your oats are certified gluten-free if needed.
How do I know when the cheesecake layer is fully baked?
The cheesecake is done when the center is mostly set but still has a slight jiggle when you gently shake the pan. It will firm up further as it cools and chills, ensuring a creamy texture.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Low-fat cream cheese can be used but may affect the texture and richness of the cheesecake layer. Full-fat cream cheese is recommended for the best creamy and smooth results.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe is truly a dessert to cherish and share. With its tender crust, creamy cheesecake, warmly spiced apples, and crunchy streusel, it comes together to create something uniquely comforting and delicious. I can’t wait for you to try making it yourself – it’s one of those treats that brings a little joy in every bite and makes any moment feel special.
Print
Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 12 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these Apple Cheesecake Bars, a perfect fall dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake layer, spiced diced apples, and a crunchy streusel topping. Baked to golden perfection, these bars combine sweet and tart flavors with a rich texture, ideal for any occasion or cozy treat.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake layer:
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the apple layer:
- 2 medium apples, peeled and finely diced
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
For the streusel topping:
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup rolled oats
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Prepare crust: Preheat oven to 350°F and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust. Bake for 8 minutes, then remove from oven and let cool slightly.
- Make cheesecake layer: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time and mix well after each addition, then stir in vanilla extract until fully incorporated. Pour this cheesecake batter evenly over the pre-baked crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Add apple layer: In a small bowl, combine the finely diced peeled apples with brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Spoon this apple mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer, distributing it carefully to cover the surface.
- Prepare streusel topping: In another bowl, mix all-purpose flour, brown sugar, rolled oats, and cinnamon. Pour in melted butter and stir until the mixture becomes crumbly. Evenly sprinkle this streusel topping over the apple layer to create a crunchy finish.
- Bake: Place the assembled pan in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the center is set and the streusel topping is golden brown. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely at room temperature.
- Chill and serve: Once cooled, transfer the bars to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours to set fully. After chilling, slice into 12 bars and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- Use tart apples such as Granny Smith for a pleasant contrast to the sweet cheesecake layer.
- These bars can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to achieve a smooth cheesecake layer without lumps.
