Indulge in the divine world of Decadent Apple Streusel Cheesecake Bars, where a symphony of flavors and textures come together to create a sweet treat like no other. These bars boast a buttery crust, a velvety cheesecake filling, a layer of spiced apples, and a crumbly streusel topping. Optionally, you can elevate the experience with a drizzle of luscious caramel sauce. This delightful dessert is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to special celebrations.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 3/4 cup (12 tablespoons) cold butter, cubed
For the Cheesecake:
- 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
For the Apples:
- 3 Granny Smith apples, peeled and chopped small
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
For the Streusel Topping:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
For the Caramel Sauce (Optional):
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Directions
Let’s create these heavenly bars step by step:
1. Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper.
2. Make the Crust
- To create the crust, combine the brown sugar, flour, and cold cubed butter in a small bowl. Mix with a pastry cutter or your hands until it becomes crumbly.
- Press the crust mixture into the prepared baking pan and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until it turns lightly browned.
3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
- While the crust is baking, prepare the cheesecake filling. In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat the cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla, and eggs until the mixture turns smooth.
4. Spice Up the Apples
- In a separate bowl, combine the chopped apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Ensure the apples are well coated with the spices.
5. Assemble the Bars
- Pour the prepared cheesecake filling over the baked crust and spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle the spiced apples over the cheesecake filling.
6. Create the Streusel Topping
- To make the streusel topping, combine the flour, brown sugar, cubed butter, and rolled oats in a bowl. Use a pastry cutter or your hands to achieve a wet sand-like texture.
- Spread the streusel topping evenly over the apples.
7. Bake to Perfection
- Bake the cheesecake bars for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are slightly pulled, and the center is soft but slightly jiggly.
8. Cool and Serve
- Allow the bars to cool for 1 hour at room temperature, then refrigerate for 3 hours before serving.
9. Optional Caramel Drizzle
- If desired, make the caramel sauce by heating the granulated sugar in a saucepan over medium heat until it melts and turns amber-colored.
- Add the butter and stir until melted. Slowly pour in the heavy cream and stir until smooth.
- Add the sea salt and stir to combine. Drizzle the caramel sauce over the cheesecake bars before serving.
Conclusion
These Decadent Apple Streusel Cheesecake Bars are a delightful combination of sweet, creamy, and spiced flavors, with a delightful texture that will leave your taste buds wanting more. Perfect for sharing with family and friends or savoring as a special treat, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Enjoy!
