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This apple pie cheesecake bars recipe combines three beloved desserts into one irresistible treat. The buttery graham cracker crust provides the perfect foundation for a creamy cheesecake filling studded with cinnamon-spiced apples. Finish with a drizzle of salted caramel sauce for a dessert that will disappear from your table in minutes.
I first made these bars for a fall potluck and ended up handing out the recipe to nearly everyone there. Now these bars have become my signature dessert whenever someone needs comfort in sweet form.
Ingredients
For Crust
- Butter: creates that rich, buttery foundation that makes graham cracker crusts irresistible
- Graham cracker crumbs: look for honey graham crackers for the best flavor
- Sugar: enhances the sweetness and helps bind the crust
- Cinnamon: adds warmth and complements the apple flavor beautifully
For Cheesecake Filling
- Cream cheese: use full-fat Philadelphia for the creamiest texture and allow it to come fully to room temperature
- Eggs: provide structure and richness, bring these to room temperature too
- Sugar: balances the tanginess of the cream cheese
- Salt: enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness
For Apples
- Apples: Honeycrisp or Granny Smith work best as they hold their shape during baking
- Cinnamon: the essential apple pie spice that makes these bars feel cozy
- Sugar: helps macerate the apples and create that perfect pie filling texture
Optional Toppings
- Caramel sauce: store bought works perfectly but homemade takes these to the next level
- Sea salt: flaky Maldon salt creates beautiful contrast with the sweet caramel
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Pan:
- Line your baking pan with parchment paper after spraying it with cooking spray. This double protection ensures your bars will release perfectly without breaking. Make sure the parchment hangs over the sides to create handles for easy removal.
- Make the Crust:
- Combine melted butter, cinnamon, sugar and graham cracker crumbs until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press firmly into the prepared pan using the flat bottom of a measuring cup to create an even layer. Bake for exactly 10 minutes until just set but not browned.
- Prepare the Apples:
- Toss the peeled and diced apples with cinnamon and sugar, coating each piece thoroughly. The sugar will start drawing moisture from the apples and creating that lovely syrupy texture.
- Mix the Cheesecake:
- Beat the cream cheese, sugar, eggs and salt for a full 5 minutes on medium high speed. This lengthy mixing is crucial for incorporating air and ensuring a silky smooth texture. The mixture should look completely uniform with no lumps.
- Combine and Bake:
- Fold the prepared apples gently into the cheesecake mixture using a rubber spatula with a light hand to maintain airiness. Pour over the crust and smooth the top. Bake uncovered for about an hour or until the center is just set with a slight jiggle.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight. Cut into squares, drizzle with caramel sauce and sprinkle with flaky sea salt just before serving.
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The cinnamon in this recipe is absolutely crucial. I once made these bars without it and while still good, they were missing that warm, comforting quality that makes them so special. Now I always keep Ceylon cinnamon in my pantry specifically for these bars because its delicate floral notes pair perfectly with the apples.
Make Ahead Options
These apple pie cheesecake bars actually improve with time as the flavors meld together. Make them up to two days before serving and store in the refrigerator for the best flavor and texture. I recommend adding the caramel and salt just before serving so they look fresh and glossy.
The Perfect Apple Choice
The type of apple you choose makes a significant difference in these bars. Honeycrisp provides sweetness and holds its shape, while Granny Smith offers tartness that balances the rich cheesecake. For the best of both worlds, use one of each apple in your recipe. Cut the apples into small, uniform pieces about 1/4 inch in size to ensure they cook evenly and distribute well throughout the filling.
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Serving Suggestions
These bars shine as part of a dessert buffet or as a standalone treat. For special occasions, serve slightly chilled with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and extra warm caramel sauce. During fall gatherings, I pair these with hot apple cider for an apple-themed treat that guests go crazy for. For an elegant presentation, place each bar on a small dessert plate with a light dusting of powdered sugar and a mint leaf.
Commonly Asked Questions
- → Can I use different types of apples in these cheesecake bars?
Yes! Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith work exceptionally well as they hold their shape during baking and provide a nice contrast to the sweet cheesecake. However, Honeycrisp, Braeburn, or Pink Lady varieties also work beautifully. Avoid softer apples like McIntosh that might become too mushy during baking.
- → How do I know when the cheesecake bars are fully baked?
The bars are done when the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle when you gently shake the pan. The filling should not be liquid but should have the consistency of set gelatin. Overbaking can cause cracks, so it's better to slightly underbake than overbake. The bars will continue to set as they cool.
- → Can I make these bars ahead of time for a party?
Absolutely! These bars actually benefit from being made ahead. Prepare them 1-2 days before serving and store in the refrigerator. Add the caramel drizzle and sea salt just before serving for the freshest presentation. The flavors meld beautifully with time, making them even more delicious.
- → What can I substitute for graham crackers in the crust?
If graham crackers aren't available, digestive biscuits make an excellent substitute. Other options include vanilla wafers, gingersnaps (for extra spice), or even crushed shortbread cookies. Just make sure to maintain the same proportion of crumbs to butter to ensure your crust holds together properly.
- → How should I cut these bars for the cleanest slices?
For perfectly clean cuts, chill the bars thoroughly first (at least 4 hours or overnight). Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between each cut. The heat helps the knife glide through the filling without dragging or creating crumbs. Clean the knife after each slice for the most professional-looking presentation.
- → Can I make these bars without the caramel sauce?
Yes, these bars are delicious even without the caramel topping. Alternative toppings include a light dusting of powdered sugar, a dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of honey, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar. The bars themselves have plenty of flavor from the spiced apples and creamy cheesecake filling.