Ingredients
Scale
- sugar: Sweetens the crust and crumbles.
- 150 grams (⅔ cup) unsalted butter, melted and cooled: Provides richness and binds the crust and crumble together.
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 450 grams (16 oz) cream cheese, block style, room temperature: The base for the creamy cheesecake layer.
- 105 grams (½ cup) granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a subtle, aromatic flavor.
- 2 large eggs, room temperature: Provides structure and creaminess to the filling.
For the Apple Layer:
- 2 medium Granny Smith apples (about 2 and ¼ cups), cored, peeled, and sliced: Provides a tart contrast to the sweet cheesecake.
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice.
- ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Complements the cinnamon with a hint of spice.
- 15 grams (1 tablespoon) granulated sugar: Sweetens the apples slightly.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust and Crumbles
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease an 8-inch (20cm) square oven-proof dish and line the bottom and sides with parchment paper, leaving a 2-inch (5cm) overhang on each side.
- Make the dough: In a medium bowl, combine the flour and sugar. Stir with a fork or spatula. Add the melted butter and mix until the dough is fully combined.
- Assemble the crust: Press ⅔ of the dough mixture (about 390 grams) into the prepared baking dish. Set aside the remaining ⅓ of the dough (about 190 grams) for the crumble topping. If your kitchen is warm, refrigerate the crumble dough until you need it.
- Bake the crust: Bake the crust for 12 minutes, or until it slightly changes color. Remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for 10 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
- Beat the filling ingredients: While the crust is cooling, beat the cream cheese and sugar in a medium mixing bowl until just combined. If using a whisk, gently tap the whisk to the side of the bowl to ensure the cream cheese mixture drops back into the bowl.
- Add the vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Add the eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, stirring until just combined after each addition.
Step 3: Prepare the Apple Layer
- Prepare the apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples into small pieces.
- Season the apples: In a medium bowl, combine the apples with cinnamon, nutmeg, and sugar. Stir until the apples are evenly coated.
Step 4: Assemble the Bars
- Assemble the layers: Pour the cheesecake filling over the warm crust. Spread the apple mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer. Sprinkle the reserved crumble dough evenly on top of the apples.
- Bake the bars: Bake the bars for 38 minutes or until the top is lightly golden brown. Check after 30 minutes, as baking times may vary depending on your oven.
Step 5: Cooling and Serving
- Cool the bars: Allow the bars to cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate them for at least 2 hours before slicing.
- Serve: Serve the bars as they are or drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra touch of sweetness.
Notes
- Storage: Once cooled and sliced, store the apple cheesecake bars in the fridge for up to 3 days. They also freeze well for up to 3 months—just be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the crust, cheesecake filling, and apple layer ahead of time and store them in the fridge until ready to assemble and bake. This makes the dessert even easier to put together on the day of serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 38 minutes