Name: Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 medium apples (peeled, cored, and finely diced); 1 tablespoon butter; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes

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If you’re searching for a cozy dessert that wraps the creamy decadence of cheesecake and the warm, spicy sweetness of baked apples into every bite, Apple Cheesecake Bars are about to become your new obsession. Marrying a buttery graham cracker crust, lush cheesecake filling, tender cinnamon apples, and a buttery streusel on top, this treat delivers everything you love about autumn baking (plus the joy of easy-to-eat bars!). Whether you’re making them for a holiday spread, weeknight treat, or just because, these Apple Cheesecake Bars will bring big smiles from the very first slice.

Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best parts about Apple Cheesecake Bars is that every ingredient plays an important role—from the crisp crust to the creamy filling and crumbly streusel. Each layer is simple, but together they build a symphony of flavors and textures that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds.

Graham cracker crumbs: These form the irresistible, slightly crunchy base and soak up the buttery goodness.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens both the crust and cheesecake layers, balancing the tang of the cream cheese and tartness of the apples.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness to the crust and streusel, creating a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Cream cheese: The heart of the cheesecake layer—make sure it’s softened for a super-smooth filling.
Large eggs: Bind the cheesecake filling, giving it structure and an ultra-creamy finish.
Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla deepens the flavor of the cheesecake layer and brings warmth to the dessert.
Apples: Use tart varieties like Granny Smith for the apple topping—they hold their shape and offer a tangy contrast.
Brown sugar: Caramelizes with the apples and adds a lovely molasses note to both the topping and streusel.
Cinnamon: Gives that classic fall flavor, spicing up the apples and the streusel topping perfectly.
All-purpose flour: The backbone of the streusel, which forms gorgeous, golden crumbles on top.

How to Make Apple Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Prep the Pan and Crust

Let’s get started! First, preheat your oven to 350°F and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper—a little trick that makes lifting and slicing your Apple Cheesecake Bars a breeze. In a medium bowl, mix your graham cracker crumbs, a touch of sugar, and the melted butter until all the crumbs are evenly moist. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of your pan. Give it a quick 8-minute bake to set, building the perfect crunchy stage for all the layers to come.

Step 2: Whip Up the Cheesecake Layer

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until luxuriously smooth (no lumps allowed!). Then add your eggs and vanilla, beating until the mixture is creamy and unified. Pour this cheesecake batter over your pre-baked crust, smoothing the top with a spatula, so every bite has that classic, tangy richness.

Step 3: Prepare the Apple Topping for Apple Cheesecake Bars

Pop a skillet on medium heat and melt a bit of butter. Toss in your finely diced apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon, letting them sizzle and soften for about five minutes—just until the apples are tender and fragrant. This step makes the whole kitchen smell like an autumn fair! Once cooked, spoon the warm apple mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer.

Step 4: Make the Streusel Topping

Grab a small bowl and combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Add your cold, cubed butter and use a fork or pastry cutter to get the mixture crumbly—think chunky sand, not smooth dough. Sprinkle this dreamy streusel generously over the apples for that signature crumble top.

Step 5: Bake and Chill

Slide your pan into the oven and let it bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the center is set (it might jiggle just a little) and the streusel is golden. Cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least three hours before slicing. This wait is the hardest part, but it ensures your Apple Cheesecake Bars slice cleanly and taste absolutely perfect.

How to Serve Apple Cheesecake Bars

Garnishes

Top your bars with a dusting of powdered sugar, a generous dollop of whipped cream, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce. Thin apple slices or a sprinkling of toasted chopped pecans also look stunning and add extra flavor. Let your garnishes echo the dessert’s bakery window look!

Side Dishes

Pairing Apple Cheesecake Bars with a cup of hot coffee or spiced chai makes for a truly comforting treat. If you’re serving a crowd, try them with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a chic dessert platter.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dramatic dessert board, cut the bars into small squares and arrange them with sliced apples, cinnamon sticks, and tiny bowls of caramel dip. Or, serve them in individual ramekins for a personalized touch at dinner parties—a nod to classic cheesecake, reinvented!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your Apple Cheesecake Bars are fully cooled and sliced, keep them fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay delicious for up to 4 days, making them a wonderful make-ahead option for any gathering or late-night sweet tooth attack.

Freezing

If you want to stash some away for future cravings, these bars freeze beautifully. Simply wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep their texture and flavor for up to 2 months, so you can always have a homemade treat on hand.

Reheating

Though Apple Cheesecake Bars are best enjoyed chilled, you can bring out their flavors by letting them sit at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes before serving. If you prefer them a little warm, microwave an individual bar for about 10 seconds to soften the cheesecake and release the aroma of cinnamon apples.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Dessert

Absolutely! Tart apples like Granny Smith are recommended for the best flavor balance, but Honeycrisp or Braeburn apples work great, too. Feel free to use your favorite or whatever you have on hand.

Do I have to chill the bars before serving?

Yes, chilling is essential. It helps the cheesecake set and makes the bars much easier to slice. Aim for at least 3 hours in the refrigerator, though overnight is even better for flavor development.

Can I make Apple Cheesecake Bars gluten-free?

You sure can! Substitute gluten-free graham crackers in the crust and use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the streusel. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

How do I get clean slices?

For neat, bakery-worthy bars, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts. Chilling the bars fully before slicing also helps them hold their shape.

Can I double this recipe?

Of course! Simply use a 9×13-inch pan and double all the ingredients. You may need to extend the bake time by about 5 to 10 minutes—just check that the center is set before removing from the oven.

Final Thoughts

Bring a little homemade magic to your dessert table—these Apple Cheesecake Bars are an absolute must-try for anyone who loves a sweet surprise in every bite. I can’t wait for you to bake a batch, share them with friends or family (or just enjoy them all yourself), and create a new favorite tradition. Happy baking!

Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe

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4.8 from 15 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 12 bars 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the perfect blend of creamy cheesecake, spiced apples, and buttery streusel with these delectable Apple Cheesecake Bars. A delightful treat that captures the essence of fall in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust:

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Layer:

16 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Apple Topping:

2 medium apples (peeled, cored, and finely diced)
1 tablespoon butter
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Streusel Topping:

1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Prepare the crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Press into the pan and bake for 8 minutes.
Make the cheesecake layer: Beat cream cheese and sugar, then add eggs and vanilla. Pour over the crust.
Prepare the apple topping: Sauté apples with butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until tender. Spread over the cheesecake layer.
Add the streusel topping: Combine flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter to make the streusel. Sprinkle over the apples.
Bake: Bake for 35–40 minutes until set and golden. Cool, then chill for at least 3 hours before slicing into bars.