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Homemade Apple Crumble Cheesecake Bars recipe photo
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Apple Crumble Cheesecake Bars

These Apple Crumble Cheesecake Bars are a cozy, creamy, and crunchy fall dessert packed with cinnamon-spiced apples and a buttery graham crust.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time50 minutes
Total Time1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 9 servings

Ingredients

For the Crust

  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs for a buttery, crunchy base
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted, to bind the crust
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar adds sweetness to the crust

For the Cheesecake Filling

  • 2 packages cream cheese 8 oz each, softened, the creamy cheesecake foundation
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar sweetens the cheesecake layer
  • 2 large eggs help set the cheesecake filling
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract enhances flavor depth

For the Apple Layer

  • 2 cups chopped apples the star fruit, spiced and tender
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon adds warm spice to the apples
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg complements cinnamon with subtle spice

For the Crumble Topping

  • 1/2 cup brown sugar sweetens and flavors the crumble topping
  • 1 cup rolled oats gives the crumble its hearty texture
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour binds the crumble topping
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted, to mix into crumble topping

Instructions

Prepare the Crust

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Mix well until the crumbs are evenly coated and resemble wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your greased 9x9-inch baking pan to form an even crust layer. Bake for 8 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.

Make the Cheesecake Filling

  • In a large bowl, beat the two packages of softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add 1/2 cup granulated sugar and continue beating until fully incorporated. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Set the cheesecake filling aside while you prepare the apples and topping.

Prepare the Apple Layer

  • In a separate bowl, toss the 2 cups chopped apples with 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg until the fruit is evenly coated. Spread the spiced apples evenly over the pre-baked crust in the pan.

Assemble the Bars

  • Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the apples, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Make the Crumble Topping

  • In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1 cup rolled oats, and 1/4 cup all-purpose flour. Stir in 1/4 cup melted butter until the mixture becomes crumbly and holds together when pressed. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the cheesecake layer.

Bake and Cool

  • Bake the bars at 350°F (175°C) for 40-45 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set and the crumble topping is golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before slicing into squares.

Equipment

  • 9x9-inch Baking Pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer or stand mixer
  • Spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Oven mitts

Notes

  • Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp to keep the fruit from becoming mushy during baking.
  • Chill the bars well before slicing for cleaner, neater squares.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Try swapping apples for pears or adding nuts to the crumble for delicious variations.
  • To soften cream cheese quickly, cut into cubes and let sit at room temperature or microwave briefly in bursts.