Name: Classic Apple Cheesecake Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups graham cracker crumbs; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 apples, peeled and finely diced; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup rolled oats; 1/3 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; Caramel sauce, for drizzling

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it layers everything I want in a fall dessert—sweet and spiced apples, a smooth cheesecake center, and that golden, buttery crumble on top. It’s just the right mix of textures, and it’s easy to make ahead, which is perfect for holidays or casual weekends. These bars also slice beautifully and hold their shape, making them ideal for sharing.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the crust:
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the cheesecake layer:
16 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the apple topping:
2 apples, peeled and finely diced
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

For the crumble topping:
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup rolled oats
1/3 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Optional topping:
Caramel sauce, for drizzling

directions

I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper to make removal easy.
For the crust, I mix the graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and melted butter until everything is well combined. I press it firmly into the bottom of the pan and bake for 8–10 minutes, then set it aside to cool.
I beat the softened cream cheese and sugar in a large bowl until smooth. I add the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla. I pour this mixture evenly over the pre-baked crust.
In a small bowl, I toss the diced apples with sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg, then spread them over the cheesecake layer.
For the crumble topping, I combine flour, oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon. I cut in the cold, cubed butter using a fork until the mixture turns crumbly, then I sprinkle it over the apples.
I bake everything for 35–40 minutes, until the center is set and the crumble is golden brown.
Once baked, I let the bars cool completely at room temperature, then chill them in the fridge for at least 2 hours.
Just before serving, I like to drizzle them with caramel sauce for an extra layer of sweetness.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 bars
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Calories: 375 kcal per bar

Variations

I sometimes use crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers for the crust instead of graham crackers.
When I want extra flavor, I mix chopped pecans or walnuts into the crumble topping.
If I’m out of nutmeg, pumpkin pie spice works as a great substitute.
For a gluten-free version, I use gluten-free oats and a GF graham cracker base.
I also like to swap apples for pears when I want something a little different.

storage/reheating

These bars store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. I don’t reheat them—they’re best served cold or at room temperature. If I need to freeze them, I do so before adding the caramel. I wrap each bar tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to serve, I thaw them overnight in the fridge and drizzle with caramel just before eating.

FAQs

Can I use any type of apple?

Yes, I usually go with firm varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji—they hold their shape well and bring great flavor.

Do I need to peel the apples?

I always peel the apples for a smoother texture, but if I’m short on time, I sometimes leave the skin on for a bit of added texture.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Definitely. I like to make these a day in advance so they have plenty of time to chill and set up before slicing.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes, doubling works well. I bake the bars in a 9×13-inch pan and add a few extra minutes to the bake time to ensure the center sets.

What’s the best way to cut clean slices?

I chill the bars thoroughly, then use a sharp knife wiped clean between each slice. That helps get those neat, bakery-style edges.

Conclusion

These Classic Apple Cheesecake Bars are a seasonal staple in my kitchen. With their creamy filling, warm apple topping, and crumbly finish, they capture the best flavors of fall in every bite. Whether I’m making them for a holiday gathering or just treating myself, they always bring comfort and smiles.

Classic Apple Cheesecake Bars

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Author: Mia
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 12 bars
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These creamy cheesecake bars feature a graham cracker crust, warm spiced apples, and a buttery oat crumble. A cozy dessert that’s perfect for fall or the holidays.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

Make the crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and melted butter. Press into the pan and bake for 8–10 minutes. Let cool.

Prepare the cheesecake layer: Beat softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla. Pour over cooled crust.

Make the apple topping: Toss diced apples with sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Spread over cheesecake layer.

Make the crumble: Mix flour, oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in cold butter until crumbly. Sprinkle evenly over apple layer.

Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the center is set and the crumble is golden brown.

Cool completely at room temperature, then chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours.

Drizzle with caramel sauce just before serving. Cut into bars.

Notes

Use vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits for the crust for a variation.

Add chopped nuts to the crumble for a crunchy twist.

Swap nutmeg with pumpkin pie spice for a fall flavor boost.

Use pears instead of apples for a unique spin.

For gluten-free bars, use GF oats and GF graham crackers.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American