Apple Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat that perfectly combines the smooth, creamy texture of cheesecake with the delicious crunch of apples. These bars are an ideal dessert for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a picnic, or simply a sweet treat for yourself. With the warm flavors of cinnamon and the richness of cream cheese, each bite brings comfort and joy. Let’s dive into how you can create this mouthwatering dessert right in your own kitchen!
What Goes into This Apple Cheesecake Bars
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch of these tasty Apple Cheesecake Bars:
- 1 1/2 cups quick oats (150 g)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (60 g)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (100 g)
- 1/2 cup melted butter (115 g)
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened (450 g)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100 g)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups diced apples (about 2 medium apples or 300 g)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup dulce de leche (150 g)
Step-by-Step Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, flour, and brown sugar. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture is crumbly.
- Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper and press the oat mixture into the bottom. Bake for 10 minutes and then remove from the oven.
- In another bowl, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Toss the diced apples with ground cinnamon, then fold them into the cheesecake mixture.
- Pour the filling over the pre-baked crust. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the edges are golden and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Warm the dulce de leche and drizzle it over the chilled bars just before serving.
- Lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper, cut them into squares, and enjoy!
How to Serve Apple Cheesecake Bars
When it comes to serving Apple Cheesecake Bars, presentation matters! You can serve these delicious bars straight from the fridge on a lovely dish. Add an extra drizzle of dulce de leche on top for an eye-catching finish. For a refreshing touch, pair each bar with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can also sprinkle some additional cinnamon or finely chopped nuts for a little extra crunch.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- For added flavor, try mixing in some chopped walnuts or pecans with the apples for that extra crunch.
- If you love a buttery crust, increase the amount of melted butter in the oat mixture by a couple of tablespoons.
- For a fun twist, substitute half of the apples with pears for a different fruit flavor.
Apple Cheesecake Bars FAQs
How long do these bars last?
Apple Cheesecake Bars can last up to 4-5 days when stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
Can I use other fruits?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute apples with other fruits such as peaches or berries, depending on your preference.
Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, you can freeze Apple Cheesecake Bars. Just make sure they are tightly wrapped and stored in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
These Apple Cheesecake Bars are an easy and delicious dessert that everyone will love. The combination of cream cheese and apples makes for a delightful treat worth sharing. So why not give it a try? You won’t be disappointed!