Apple Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe!

Oh my goodness, friends, prepare for a flavor explosion! These Apple Pie Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate dessert mashup, combining the comforting warmth of apple pie with the creamy decadence of cheesecake. We’re talking a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth, dreamy cheesecake filling loaded with tender apple pieces, and a drizzle of caramel sauce with a sprinkle of sea salt to take it over the top. Trust me, these bars are pure heaven, and they’re surprisingly easy to make!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Best of Both Worlds: Apple pie meets cheesecake in a perfect, portable bar!
• Easy and Impressive: Simple steps lead to a dessert that looks and tastes like you spent hours on it.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: From holiday gatherings to casual get-togethers, these bars are always a hit.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or flavor variations for a personalized treat.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

For Crust

• Melted Butter: Binds the crumbs and adds a rich, buttery flavor.
• Graham Cracker Crumbs: The classic base for a delicious crust.
• Sugar: Sweetens the crust and adds a touch of crunch.
• Ground Cinnamon: Adds warm, cozy spice.

For Cheesecake Filling

• Cream Cheese (Room Temperature): The key to a smooth, creamy filling.
• Large Eggs: Binds the ingredients and adds richness.
• Sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake filling.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.

For Apples

• Large Apples (Peeled, Cored, and Sliced): Adds a sweet, fruity element.
• Cinnamon: Enhances the apple flavor with warm, cozy spice.
• Sugar: Sweetens the apples and helps them soften.

Optional Toppings

• Caramel Sauce (Store-Bought): Adds a rich, gooey sweetness.
• Sea Salt: Balances the sweetness with a touch of salty goodness.

Variations

• Spiced Apples: Add nutmeg or cloves to the apple mixture for extra spice.
• Nutty Crust: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the graham cracker crust.
• Berry Swirl: Swirl in some raspberry or strawberry jam into the cheesecake filling.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the caramel sauce for a decadent twist.

How to Make Apple Pie Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper and spray with cooking spray. Mix melted butter, cinnamon, sugar, and graham cracker crumbs. Press evenly into the pan and bake for 10 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Apples

In a medium bowl, mix sliced apples with sugar and cinnamon.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a mixer, beat cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and salt until smooth (about 5 minutes). Gently fold in the apple mixture.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust and level with a spatula. Bake uncovered for about 1 hour, or until the filling is set.

Step 5: Cool and Slice

Let the cheesecake cool completely before slicing into squares.

Step 6: Add Toppings

Drizzle with caramel sauce and sprinkle with sea salt.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth filling.
• Gentle Folding: Gently fold in the apples to avoid overmixing and keep the filling light.
• Cooling Time: Let the cheesecake cool completely before slicing for clean cuts.
• Use a water bath while baking to avoid cracking.

How to Serve

• Dessert Platter: Perfect for adding to a dessert platter with other treats.
• Party Dessert: A crowd-pleasing dessert for any gathering.
• Afternoon Treat: Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

Freeze the cooled bars on a pan, then wrap in plastic wrap and foil. They’ll last for up to 3 months.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of apple?
Yes, any firm apple like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala will work.

2. Can I use a different crust?
Absolutely! Try using a shortbread or gingersnap crust for a different flavor.

3. How do I prevent the cheesecake from cracking?
Avoid overbaking and let it cool slowly. A water bath during baking can also help.

4. Can I make this without caramel sauce?
Yes, you can use a different topping like whipped cream, fruit compote, or chocolate sauce.

Conclusion

These Apple Pie Cheesecake Bars are a must-try for any dessert lover! They’re easy to make, incredibly delicious, and perfect for any occasion. So, grab your ingredients and let’s get baking! You’re going to love every bite!

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