Apple Pie Cheesecake Bars: A Sweet Fusion of Flavors

Imagine the comforting flavors of apple pie and the creamy richness of cheesecake—now combined into one delightful dessert. These Apple Pie Cheesecake Bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust, a layer of creamy cheesecake, and a topping of spiced apples with a crumble that adds just the right amount of crunch. This dessert is a fantastic fusion of two classic desserts and is perfect for fall gatherings, holiday parties, or as a sweet treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee.

Each bite offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors, from the creamy, tangy cheesecake filling to the tender apples seasoned with cinnamon and nutmeg. Not only is this dessert easy to make, but it also cuts into neat bars, making it ideal for sharing. This recipe combines the warmth of apple pie with the smoothness of cheesecake, creating a truly unforgettable dessert that will be loved by all!

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Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Graham cracker crumbs	1 1/2 cups
Unsalted butter	1/3 cup, melted
Cream cheese	16 oz (2 packages), softened
Granulated sugar	1 cup
Large eggs	2, room temperature
Vanilla extract	1 teaspoon
All-purpose flour	1 tablespoon
Apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)	2 medium, peeled, cored, and diced
Brown sugar	1/4 cup
Ground cinnamon	1/2 teaspoon
Ground nutmeg	1/4 teaspoon
All-purpose flour (for topping)	2 tablespoons
Rolled oats	1/4 cup
Cold unsalted butter	2 tablespoons, cubed

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Equipment Needed

• 9×9-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Parchment paper (optional, for easy removal)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang on the sides for easy removal.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly moistened and the mixture resembles wet sand.
3. Press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even layer. Bake for 8-10 minutes, until lightly golden. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the granulated sugar and mix until combined and smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
3. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition until just combined. Avoid over-mixing.
4. Add the vanilla extract and flour, mixing until incorporated. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and spread evenly with a spatula.

Step 3: Prepare the Apple Topping

1. In another bowl, combine the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg, tossing to coat the apples evenly.
2. Sprinkle the coated apple mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer.

Step 4: Make the Crumble Topping

1. In a small bowl, combine the flour, oats, and cold cubed butter.
2. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, work the butter into the mixture until it forms pea-sized crumbs.
3. Sprinkle the crumble topping over the apple layer.

Step 5: Bake the Bars

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
2. Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) for easy slicing.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

1. Once fully chilled, use the parchment overhang to lift the bars from the pan. Place on a cutting board and slice into squares.
2. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy each bite of apple, cheesecake, and crumble layers in these delicious dessert bars!

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Tips and Variations

• Choosing Apples: Granny Smith apples add a nice tartness that complements the sweet cheesecake, while Honeycrisp apples add a mild sweetness and crisp texture. Feel free to experiment with other apple varieties for different flavors.
• Crust Options: For a twist, try using ginger snaps or cinnamon graham crackers in place of regular graham crackers for a hint of spice.
• Crumble Add-ins: You can mix in chopped pecans or walnuts into the crumble topping for added crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs well with apples.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free graham cracker crumbs and gluten-free all-purpose flour to make this dessert gluten-free.

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Serving Suggestions

Apple Pie Cheesecake Bars are a delightful addition to any dessert table and can be served in various ways. They’re perfect on their own, but you can elevate them further by adding a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce on each bar for extra indulgence. For a cozy twist, try serving these bars with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream. The cool creaminess of the ice cream contrasts beautifully with the spiced apple and cheesecake flavors.

For holiday or special occasions, arrange the bars on a large serving platter with garnishes like a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few apple slices for presentation. If you’re hosting a fall gathering, these bars pair wonderfully with a hot mug of spiced cider or a warm latte, adding a cozy touch to any dessert spread.

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Pairings

These bars are naturally sweet and spiced, making them a wonderful dessert to enjoy with warm and comforting beverages. Serve them with a hot cup of coffee or espresso, which balances the creaminess of the cheesecake and enhances the cinnamon flavors in the apple topping. For a non-caffeinated option, try pairing the bars with spiced chai tea, which complements the warmth of the cinnamon and nutmeg.

If you’re interested in a wine pairing, a glass of Moscato or Riesling works well. These wines have a natural sweetness and lightness that enhances the dessert without overpowering it. A spiced apple cider is another fantastic pairing, bringing out the apple flavors in the bars and creating a seasonal, comforting vibe.

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Storage and Reheating

To store leftover Apple Pie Cheesecake Bars, cover them tightly with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making them a great option for preparing ahead. If you need to store them longer, you can freeze the bars by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freezing until solid, and then transferring them to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

To serve frozen bars, simply allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture. These bars are best served chilled or at room temperature, so there’s no need for reheating, which helps maintain the creamy cheesecake consistency and tender apple topping.

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Nutritional Information

Per Serving (based on 12 bars):

• Calories: 300 kcal
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Protein: 4g
• Allergens: Contains dairy and gluten.

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should only be used as an approximation.

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Conclusion

Apple Pie Cheesecake Bars are the perfect dessert for when you want the best of both worlds: the familiar flavors of apple pie with the creamy texture of cheesecake. These bars are easy to slice, share, and enjoy, making them ideal for gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy fall treat. Try out this recipe, and feel free to share your own variations or serve them with your favorite fall beverage. Don’t forget to tag us on social media if you make this delicious dessert!

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