Apple Crisp Cheesecake Bars

Cream cheese, apple, and spiced oat layers combine for a comforting dessert bar with creamy, crunchy, and warmly spiced flavors in every bite.

This recipe is a family favorite that always brings smiles and requests for seconds whenever I make it.

Ingredients

• Crust: 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted, 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Cheesecake Layer: 8 ounces cream cheese softened, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Apple Filling: 2 medium apples peeled cored and diced, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Crisp Topping: 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/3 cup rolled oats, 1/3 cup brown sugar, 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 cup unsalted butter cold and cubed

Instructions

Preheat Oven:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper leaving an overhang for easy removal.

Prepare Crust:

Mix flour granulated sugar melted butter and salt in a medium bowl until crumbly. Press evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes.

Make Cheesecake Layer:

Beat softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the egg and vanilla extract mixing until just combined. Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the slightly cooled crust.

Prepare Apple Filling:

Toss diced apples with brown sugar cinnamon nutmeg and lemon juice until well coated. Distribute evenly over the cheesecake layer.

Make Crisp Topping:

Combine flour oats brown sugar and cinnamon in a bowl. Add cold cubed butter and blend with fingers or a pastry blender until coarse crumbs form. Sprinkle evenly over the apple layer.

Bake:

Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the center is set.

Cool and Refrigerate:

Cool completely in the pan. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before lifting out and slicing into bars.

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These bars have become a staple at family gatherings and holiday celebrations, often sparking fond memories and stories shared around the table.

Notes

For extra crunch add an additional handful of oats to the topping before baking. Bars store well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.

Required Tools

8x8-inch baking pan, parchment paper, mixing bowls, electric mixer or whisk, pastry blender or fork, spatula, knife for slicing

Allergen Information

Contains Wheat (flour) Milk (cream cheese butter) Egg. Always check product labels for potential allergens.

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With these tips your apple crisp cheesecake bars will come out perfectly every time and become your new go-to dessert.

Recipe FAQs

→ What apples work best for this dessert?

Tart apples like Granny Smith are recommended to balance the sweetness and add a refreshing tang.

→ Can I make the crust without butter?

Butter provides richness and structure to the crust. Substituting with margarine or shortening is possible but may alter texture.

→ How do I ensure the bars slice cleanly?

Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours before slicing to firm up layers for neat portions.

→ Is it possible to add extra oats to the topping?

Yes, adding a handful more oats before baking adds extra crunch to the topping.

→ Can these bars be stored after baking?

Store bars covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.