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Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe

4.9 from 146 reviews

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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