The Apple Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe is every comfort food craving rolled into one irresistible dessert: all the cozy flavors of apple pie mingling with the creamy decadence of cheesecake, finished with a cloud of buttery streusel and a drizzle of golden caramel. If you ever find yourself torn between classic pie and luscious cheesecake, this dessert is here to make your decision deliciously easy. Each bite is a blend of crisp apples, warm spices, silky cream cheese, and just the right amount of crunch—perfect for sharing at gatherings or indulging solo with your favorite mug of tea.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Apple Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe keeps it simple, yet every ingredient has an important role to play, from the graham cracker crust’s crunch to the warmth of cinnamon and the irresistible tang of cream cheese. Let’s break down what you’ll need and why each part matters!
- Graham cracker crumbs: The classic base, offering a sweet, crunchy foundation that holds everything together.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Binds your crust and adds rich, buttery flavor.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the crust and the cheesecake filling for balanced flavor.
- Cream cheese, softened: The heart of any cheesecake bar—creamy, tangy, and perfectly smooth when softened.
- Large eggs: Eggs hold the cheesecake layer together, giving it structure and silkiness.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors, making both apple and cheesecake layers pop.
- Sour cream: Adds extra creaminess and a touch of tang, making the filling ultra-luscious.
- Apples, peeled, cored, and diced: Fresh apples bring the iconic pie flavor and a juicy bite.
- Brown sugar: Adds caramel-like sweetness to both the apples and the streusel topping.
- Cinnamon: Essential for that cozy, classic apple pie taste and aroma.
- Nutmeg: Just a pinch deepens the spiced notes without overpowering the apples.
- Cornstarch: Thickens the apple mixture so every slice holds together nicely.
- Caramel sauce: For that show-stopping finish and an extra kiss of sweetness.
- All-purpose flour: Helps make the streusel topping crumbly and golden.
- Rolled oats: Adds a hearty touch and chewy texture to the streusel.
- Cold unsalted butter, cubed: Keeps the streusel topping crumbly, buttery, and crisp.
How to Make Apple Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang so you can lift out your bars later. This step ensures easy removal and a perfectly presented Apple Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe every time.
Step 2: Build the Graham Cracker Crust
In a medium bowl, mix together 2 cups of graham cracker crumbs, 1/2 cup melted butter, and 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Stir until well combined and the mixture resembles wet sand, then press firmly and evenly into your prepared pan. A flat-bottomed glass works wonders for creating a tightly packed, even crust that will form the sturdy base for all the delicious layers to come.
Step 3: Whip Up the Cheesecake Filling
Beat 16 ounces of softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup of granulated sugar until completely smooth and no lumps remain. Add the eggs one at a time, beating between each addition, then mix in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1/2 cup sour cream. The mixture should be rich, thick, and creamy—just the luscious layer you want in a proper Apple Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe.
Step 4: Cook the Apple Pie Topping
In a skillet over medium heat, add your peeled and diced apples along with 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, and 1 tablespoon cornstarch. Stir and cook for 5 to 6 minutes until the apples soften and the mixture turns glossy and thick. This quick cook helps to keep your bars from getting soggy and condenses all those wonderful pie flavors.
Step 5: Assemble the Layers
First, pour your creamy cheesecake filling over the crust and spread it into an even layer with a spatula. Next, spoon the warm apple mixture evenly across the cheesecake, making sure every inch gets a bit of apple love. This layered approach melds apple pie flavors into every bite of your Apple Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe.
Step 6: Crumble on the Streusel
In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup flour, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter (cubed), and 1/2 cup rolled oats. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend until the mixture forms chunky, buttery crumbs. Sprinkle this generously over the apples—it will bake up golden and crisp, giving every bite that signature crumble.
Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pop the assembled bars into the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the center is just set. The aroma will fill your kitchen with pure autumn bliss, no matter what time of year it is!
Step 8: Cool, Chill, and Drizzle
Once out of the oven, let the bars cool completely at room temperature. This sets the filling and keeps clean edges when slicing. After cooling, refrigerate for at least 2 hours—overnight is even better. When ready to serve, remove from the pan, cut into squares, and finish with a glossy drizzle of caramel sauce for a true Apple Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe masterpiece.
How to Serve Apple Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
No dessert is complete without a little flourish! For these bars, a classic caramel drizzle is a must, but don’t stop there. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt for extra contrast, or dust with powdered sugar for a snowy, bakery-style look. If you’re feeling fancy, a swirl of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream will make every bite melt-in-your-mouth dreamy.
Side Dishes
Serve your Apple Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe chilled as the star of a dessert platter, maybe flanked by fresh berries or spiced pecans for color and crunch. A steaming mug of coffee or spiced chai complements the creamy, spiced layers, making for an irresistibly cozy treat. If you’re hosting a larger feast, set out other autumn favorites like cinnamon rolls or pumpkin pie for a truly showstopping sweets table.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re after a little wow factor, cut the bars into small, elegant squares and stack them on a rustic wooden board, drizzled with caramel and dotted with candied nuts. For parties, press the bars into cupcake liners for individual portions, or serve them in mini jars for a portable treat. You can even layer crumbled bars over yogurt or vanilla pudding for an inventive trifle—talk about turning leftovers into something extraordinary!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The beauty of the Apple Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe is that these bars store beautifully. Simply place leftovers in an airtight container and keep them refrigerated for up to 5 days. The crust stays crisp, and the flavors deepen as they chill, making them even more delicious the next day.
Freezing
Want to make your sweet stash last even longer? You can freeze these bars! Slice them first, then wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, and place them all in a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving, and the texture will be just as dreamy.
Reheating
While these bars are simply divine served cold, if you prefer them a little warm, just pop a bar in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds. The caramel will melt, and the apples get extra comforting. Avoid reheating for too long, or the cheesecake layer may separate.
FAQs
Can I use a different fruit instead of apples?
Absolutely! While apples give the classic pie vibe, you can substitute pears or even peaches for a twist. Just remember to cook down firmer fruits to soften them before adding to the cheesecake layer.
Do I have to use graham crackers for the crust?
Not at all! While graham crackers create a nostalgic base, you could try digestive biscuits or even gingersnaps for an extra spiced kick. Just pulse whatever cookie you choose into fine crumbs and follow the crust steps as usual.
Can I make the Apple Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe gluten-free?
Yes, with a few easy swaps! Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust and certified gluten-free oats in the streusel. Ensure your flour substitute works cup-for-cup, or try an almond flour blend for extra richness.
What’s the best way to slice the bars cleanly?
For perfectly neat bars, chill them thoroughly before slicing, and use a sharp, large knife. Wiping the blade with a damp paper towel between cuts prevents crumbs from sticking and gives you bakery-worthy squares every time.
Can I prepare the Apple Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe ahead of time for a party?
Definitely! These bars are actually best when made the day before. The flavors meld overnight, and they slice more easily. Just keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to serve and drizzle with caramel right before presenting.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dessert that delivers coziness, nostalgia, and a touch of wow in every bite, you need to try this Apple Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe soon. It’s always a crowd-pleaser, great for sharing, and truly the best of both classic pie and rich cheesecake. So grab your favorite apples and bake up a batch—you’ll be coming back for seconds, guaranteed!
Print
Apple Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes plus chilling
- Yield: 16 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the perfect blend of apple pie and cheesecake with these delicious Apple Pie Cheesecake Bars. A buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake layer, spiced apples, and a crunchy oat streusel topped with caramel sauce make these bars a heavenly dessert treat.
Ingredients
Graham Cracker Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Apple Filling:
- 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Streusel Topping:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
Instructions
- Graham Cracker Crust: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press into the pan.
- Cheesecake Layer: Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs, vanilla, and sour cream. Pour over crust.
- Apple Filling: Cook apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch until softened. Spread over cheesecake layer.
- Streusel Topping: Combine flour, brown sugar, butter, and oats. Sprinkle over apples.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes. Cool, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Drizzle with caramel sauce before slicing.
Notes
- For extra crunch, add chopped pecans or walnuts to the streusel topping.
- Store bars in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
