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Crispy Apple Cheesecake Bars: Best Fall Dessert Recipe

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A cozy fall dessert featuring a crunchy cinnamon graham cracker crust, a tangy and creamy cheesecake layer, and tender spiced apples. These bars offer the perfect balance of texture and flavor, making them ideal for gatherings or weeknight treats.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 24 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 medium apples (mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp), peeled and diced
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the long sides, and lightly grease with butter spray.
  2. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter until resembling wet sand. Press firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
  3. Bake the crust for 10 minutes until lightly golden. Remove and let cool while preparing the filling.
  4. While the crust bakes, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook for 5-7 minutes until apples are slightly softened but hold their shape. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
  5. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and 1 cup sugar on medium speed until smooth and creamy (2-3 minutes). Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
  6. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed just until combined. Do not overmix.
  7. Add sour cream, vanilla, and flour. Mix on low speed until just combined. Pour filling over the cooled crust and spread evenly.
  8. Spoon the cooked apple mixture evenly over the cheesecake batter. Gently swirl apples into the top layer with a knife.
  9. Bake for 35-40 minutes until edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle.
  10. Turn off the oven and crack the door open. Let bars cool in the oven for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
  11. Remove from oven and cool completely at room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, before cutting.

Notes

Ensure cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature to prevent lumps. Do not overmix the batter after adding eggs to avoid cracks. The bars must be chilled for at least 4 hours to set properly. For best results, make them a day ahead to allow flavors to meld.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple cheesecake, fall dessert, graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake bars, easy dessert recipe, autumn baking, party dessert

Find it online: https://miratable.com/crispy-apple-cheesecake-bars-best-fall-dessert-recipe/