Decadent Apple Streusel Cheesecake Bars
Indulge in the divine world of Decadent Apple Streusel Cheesecake Bars, combining a buttery crust, velvety cheesecake filling, spiced apples, and a crumbly streusel topping.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 3/4 cup 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 pieces 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
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper.
Make 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.
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.
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.
Assemble the Bars
- Pour the prepared cheesecake filling over the baked crust and spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle the spiced apples over the cheesecake filling.
Create 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.
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.
Cool and Serve
- Allow the bars to cool for 1 hour at room temperature, then refrigerate for 3 hours before serving.
Optional Caramel Drizzle
- 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.
Notes
These bars are perfect for sharing with family and friends or savoring as a special treat. Optional caramel drizzle adds a delicious touch.