Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Introduction
Apple Cheesecake Bars are a delightful dessert that combines creamy cheesecake with the sweet, tender flavor of baked apples. Perfect for a cozy treat or a special occasion, these bars are easy to make and sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 medium apples, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 prepared crust (graham cracker or pastry)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Press the prepared crust evenly into the bottom of a greased baking pan.
- Step 2: In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Stir in the sugar until well combined.
- Step 3: Fold the diced apples into the cream cheese mixture gently to distribute them evenly.
- Step 4: Spread the cream cheese and apple mixture evenly over the crust in the pan.
- Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the filling is set and edges are lightly golden.
- Step 6: Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before slicing into bars.
Tips & Variations
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance of sweet and tangy flavors.
- Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream cheese mixture for a warm, spiced touch.
- For a nutty crust, use crushed almonds or walnuts mixed with the graham cracker crust.
- Top with a drizzle of caramel sauce before serving for extra indulgence.
Storage
Store the apple cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat slightly in the microwave if you prefer a softer texture, but they are delicious served chilled.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a homemade crust instead of a prepared one?
Yes, a homemade graham cracker or pastry crust works wonderfully and adds a fresh touch to the bars.
How do I know when the cheesecake bars are done baking?
The filling should be set and no longer jiggly in the center. The edges may turn slightly golden, indicating that the bars are ready.
PrintApple Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Delicious Apple Cheesecake Bars combine a creamy cheesecake layer with tender baked apples and a buttery crust, creating a perfect dessert for any occasion. These bars are easy to prepare, baked until set, and chilled to achieve a smooth, firm texture with a delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 60 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- 2 medium apples (about 2 cups), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until evenly mixed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish to form an even crust layer.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in vanilla extract.
- Assemble Layers: Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the prepared crust. Arrange the thinly sliced apples over the cheesecake layer. Sprinkle the apples with a mixture of sugar and cinnamon to add sweetness and spice.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for about 35 to 40 minutes or until the cheesecake layer is set and the apples are tender. The edges should be slightly golden, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.
- Chill: Remove the dessert from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours to firm up before cutting into bars.
- Serve: Once chilled, cut into bars and serve as a delicious, creamy dessert with a hint of fresh apple flavor.
Notes
- Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and flavor.
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Chilling is crucial for clean bar slices and a smooth texture.
- Optional: sprinkle chopped nuts like walnuts on top before baking for added crunch.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Keywords: apple cheesecake bars, baked apple dessert, creamy cheesecake bars, easy apple dessert, autumn dessert, cream cheese bars
