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 quickly became a family favorite for holiday gatherings and cozy evenings at home.

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 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. Add cold cubed butter and blend until coarse crumbs form. Sprinkle evenly over the apple layer.

Bake:

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

Cool and Chill:

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 been a hit at every family gathering bringing smiles and requests for seconds.

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

Nutritional Information

Calories 190 Total Fat 10 g Carbohydrates 24 g Protein 2 g (per bar estimated)

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These Apple Crisp Cheesecake Bars balance creamy and crunchy textures perfectly for a delightful dessert.

Recipe FAQ

→ What kind of apples work best?

Tart varieties like Granny Smith provide a nice balance to the sweetness and complement the spiced oat topping well.

→ Can I make the crust ahead of time?

Yes, preparing the crust in advance and chilling it before baking helps maintain a firm base for the layers.

→ How do I ensure a creamy cheesecake layer?

Soften the cream cheese fully and beat with sugar until smooth before adding egg and vanilla to avoid lumps.

→ What is the best way to get a crunchy topping?

Using cold cubed butter blended with oats, flour, and sugar creates a crumbly topping that crisps nicely during baking.

→ How long should the bars be chilled before serving?

Chill for at least 2 hours to allow the layers to set, making slicing clean and easy.

→ Can I add extra oats to the topping?

Yes, adding more oats increases the crunch and texture, enhancing the overall bite.