Imagine the dreamy union of classic apple pie and velvety cheesecake, all captured in a portable, shareable bar. That’s exactly what you get with these Apple Pie Cheesecake Bars—a layered dessert that’s comforting, creamy, and bursting with autumn flavor in every bite. With their buttery graham cracker crust, rich cheesecake filling, spiced apple topping, and crumbly streusel, these bars are perfect for potlucks, holidays, or any time you want to impress your family and friends with something truly unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the short list fool you—each ingredient here plays a vital role in making Apple Pie Cheesecake Bars magic. From creating that sturdy base to flavoring every layer, these simple staples build big flavors and irresistible textures.
- Graham cracker crumbs: Set the stage with a crunchy, buttery crust that anchors your bars beautifully.
- Granulated sugar: Adds essential sweetness to both the crust and cheesecake, perfectly balancing the tart apples.
- Unsalted butter: Melted for the crust and cold for the streusel, giving you melt-in-your-mouth richness and delightful crumbly texture.
- Cream cheese: The star of the cheesecake layer—use full-fat for extra creaminess and flavor.
- Eggs: Hold the cheesecake together and give it that smooth, sliceable consistency.
- Vanilla extract: Brings warm, mellow undertones that round out the layers.
- Apples: Sweet-tart varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith keep their shape and add bright pops of flavor.
- Lemon juice: Prevents the apples from browning and sharpens their flavor.
- Ground cinnamon: Essential spice that echoes the classic apple pie flavor.
- Nutmeg: Just a pinch brings cozy, aromatic intrigue to the apple layer.
- Brown sugar: Rich and caramelly—used in the apple and streusel layers for depth of flavor.
- All-purpose flour: Helps hold the streusel together for those craveable, crumbly bits.
- Rolled oats: Develop hearty texture in the streusel topping, making every bite extra satisfying.
How to Make Apple Pie Cheesecake Bars
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Preheat
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. This little step makes the finished bars so much simpler to lift and slice cleanly—no sticky disasters here!
Step 2: Make the Graham Cracker Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until every crumb glistens and feels like wet sand. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan to form a solid crust. Bake for 8 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly while you whip up the next layer.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
Beat softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until silky smooth and free of lumps. Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated, then blend in that fragrant vanilla extract. Pour the cheesecake mixture over your pre-baked crust, smoothing it all the way to the edges—it’ll set up into a dreamy, creamy base as it bakes.
Step 4: Make the Spiced Apple Layer
In a bowl, toss your finely diced apples with lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar until each tiny piece is coated in spice and brightness. Gently spoon this luscious apple concoction over the cheesecake layer, distributing evenly for apple-filled goodness in every bite.
Step 5: Mix and Add the Streusel Topping
Combine flour, oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Add the cubes of cold butter and use your fingertips (or a pastry cutter) to work them in until the mixture forms coarse crumbs. Sprinkle this streusel generously over the apples, making sure every surface is nicely covered.
Step 6: Bake and Chill
Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until the center appears set and the streusel is golden and crisp. Let the bars cool completely at room temperature, then transfer to the refrigerator for at least 3 hours. Chilling ensures the layers meld and slice beautifully, so don’t rush it!
How to Serve Apple Pie Cheesecake Bars
Garnishes
For a bar that looks as good as it tastes, try dusting lightly with powdered sugar, a drizzle of warm caramel, or just a flutter of extra cinnamon across the top. A dollop of whipped cream never hurts, either!
Side Dishes
Keep it simple and pair your Apple Pie Cheesecake Bars with a hot cup of coffee or spiced tea. For dessert spreads at gatherings, tuck them alongside classic fall fruits like sliced pears or clementines, or serve with a refreshing fruit salad for contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the bars into smaller squares for bite-sized treats on a dessert buffet, or stack them neatly on a rustic wooden board for a fuss-free, homespun look. For a special touch, serve with tiny forks or dessert picks and a splash of cinnamon-spiked cream on the side.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover bars in an airtight container and refrigerate—Apple Pie Cheesecake Bars keep beautifully for up to 4 days. The flavors develop and layers hold up well, making them ideal for do-ahead dessert plans.
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze these! Once fully chilled and cut, wrap bars individually or layer them with parchment in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight for a treat that’s nearly as good as fresh-baked.
Reheating
If you love a warm dessert, let a bar sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes, or pop it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds—just until lightly warmed but not piping hot, so the texture stays creamy and the flavors shine.
FAQs
Can I use a different fruit instead of apples?
Absolutely! Pears or even peaches work well in this recipe, though apples give that classic flavor. Just keep the fruit diced small and adjust the spices to match your swap.
What’s the best apple variety for Apple Pie Cheesecake Bars?
Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold up perfectly during baking and add a nice balance of flavor. Softer varieties might break down a bit more, but you’ll still end up with delicious bars.
How do I know when the bars are baked through?
The center should be just set when you jiggle the pan lightly, and the streusel topping should look golden. If you’re unsure, insert a toothpick into the center—it should come out mostly clean, with perhaps a few moist crumbs attached.
Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
Yes! Just use a 9×13-inch pan, extend the baking time by 10–15 minutes, and keep an eye on that golden streusel topping to avoid overbaking.
Is it okay to serve these at room temperature?
Definitely. While they slice best chilled, Apple Pie Cheesecake Bars taste wonderful at room temperature and are perfect for potlucks or dessert tables where refrigeration isn’t always an option.
Final Thoughts
These Apple Pie Cheesecake Bars truly bring together the best of two favorite desserts, and I can’t recommend them enough for your next gathering or treat-yourself moment. Grab some apples and cream cheese, and enjoy this sweet, layered creation—it’s comfort food, dessert, and a celebration of fall flavors all in one delicious bar!
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Apple Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 12 bars 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delicious combination of apple pie and cheesecake with these Apple Pie Cheesecake Bars. A graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake layer, spiced apple filling, and buttery streusel come together in this irresistible dessert.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake layer:
- 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the apple layer:
- 2 large apples, peeled and finely diced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
For the streusel topping:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into pan and bake.
- Beat cream cheese and sugar, then add eggs and vanilla. Pour over crust.
- Toss apples with lemon juice, spices, and sugar. Spoon over cheesecake layer.
- Make streusel topping and sprinkle over apples.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes until set. Cool, then refrigerate before slicing.
Notes
- Use firm apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for the best texture.
- Bars can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge.
- For a sweeter touch, drizzle with caramel before serving.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0.3g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
