Apple Streusel Cheesecake Bars

There’s something undeniably magical about the combination of apples, cinnamon, and creamy cheesecake—a trifecta of flavors that instantly evokes comfort and warmth. These Apple Streusel Cheesecake Bars are exactly that: a buttery shortbread crust, a luscious cheesecake filling, tender cinnamon-spiced apples, and a crisp, crumbly streusel topping that makes every bite unforgettable.

Perfect for Thanksgiving, holiday gatherings, or just an indulgent weekend treat, these bars are more than just dessert—they’re a celebration of cozy flavors and seasonal ingredients. Whether you’re serving them at a family dinner, a potluck, or savoring them with a cup of tea, these bars are guaranteed to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why these Apple Streusel Cheesecake Bars deserve a permanent spot in your recipe rotation:

• Layered Perfection: Each bite combines a buttery crust, creamy cheesecake, tender apples, and crumbly streusel.
• Rich Autumn Flavors: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar enhance the apples and cheesecake for a warm, comforting taste.
• Perfect for Holidays: Ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion where dessert matters.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Chill overnight for easier slicing and better flavor melding.
• Visual Appeal: The layers create a gorgeous presentation, making these bars as beautiful as they are delicious.
• Customizable: Easy to adapt for dietary preferences or add your favorite nuts and spices.

Ingredients Breakdown

These bars yield 20–24 servings, depending on how generously you cut them. Ingredients are grouped by component for clarity.

Shortbread Crust

• 1 1/2 cups (195g) all-purpose flour
• 6 tbsp (84g) packed brown sugar
• 3/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup (112g) salted butter, room temperature

Cinnamon Apples

• 4 1/4 cups (506g) chopped apples (3–4 large apples)
• 1 1/2 tsp all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

Cheesecake Filling

• 20 ounces (565g) cream cheese, room temperature
• 3/4 cup (168g) packed brown sugar
• 3 tbsp (24g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (115g) sour cream
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 3/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 large egg white, room temperature

Cinnamon Streusel

• 1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (112g) packed brown sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 4 tbsp (56g) salted butter, melted

Tools & Equipment Needed

To make these bars with ease, gather the following tools:

• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Medium mixing bowls
• Large mixing bowl for cheesecake filling
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Pastry blender or fork
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board for apples
• Oven
• Cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps for perfectly layered, flavorful bars.

1. Prep the Pan

Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper, letting it extend above the sides for easy removal.

2. Make the Shortbread Crust

• In a medium bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
• Cut in butter using a pastry blender or fork until the mixture is crumbly.
• Press evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake 8–10 minutes.

3. Prepare the Apples

• In a medium bowl, combine chopped apples, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.

4. Make the Cheesecake Filling

• In a large mixing bowl, blend cream cheese, brown sugar, and flour on low speed until smooth.
• Add sour cream, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg, mixing on low until combined.
• Add eggs and egg white one at a time, mixing slowly to maintain a smooth texture. Scrape down the sides to ensure even mixing.

5. Assemble the Bars

• Pour cheesecake batter over the baked crust and spread evenly.
• Evenly distribute the cinnamon-spiced apples over the cheesecake layer.

6. Prepare the Streusel

• In a small bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
• Add melted butter and stir until crumbly.
• Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the apples.

7. Bake

Increase oven temperature to 325°F (163°C). Bake bars for approximately 45 minutes, until the center is set but still slightly soft.

8. Cool and Chill

• Remove from oven and let cool on the counter for about 45 minutes.
• Refrigerate until cold and firm. This ensures easy cutting and clean layers.

9. Serve

Lift bars from the pan using the parchment overhang. Cut into squares and serve chilled. Store well-covered in the refrigerator for 4–5 days.

Tips & Variations

Tips

• Use firm apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala to prevent a mushy texture.
• Room temperature ingredients help achieve a smooth cheesecake layer.
• Chill before slicing to maintain clean edges.

Variations

• Nutty Streusel: Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the streusel.
• Caramel Drizzle: Top with warm caramel sauce for an extra indulgent twist.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the crust and streusel.
• Vegan Option: Use plant-based cream cheese and butter alternatives.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

• Taste: Sweet, tangy, and warmly spiced. Apples and cinnamon dominate with the cheesecake providing a creamy backdrop.
• Texture: Soft, tender apples; smooth cheesecake; buttery crust; and crunchy streusel topping.
• Best Pairings: Enjoy alone or with lightly sweetened whipped cream.

Nutritional Overview

Per serving (1 bar):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	247
Protein	3.8 g
Carbohydrates	24.9 g
Sugars	13.8 g
Fat	15.2 g
Cholesterol	56.3 mg
Sodium	135.1 mg

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian-friendly. Can be modified for gluten-free or vegan diets with substitutions.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Prepare Crust Ahead: Bake crust a day prior and store at room temperature.
• Assemble Layers in Advance: Layer cheesecake and apples a few hours before baking.
• Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Fully baked and cooled bars can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge.

FAQs

1. Can I substitute other fruits for apples?
Yes! Pears or peaches can provide a similar texture and sweetness.

2. What type of cream cheese should I use?
Full-fat cream cheese at room temperature works best for a smooth, creamy filling.

3. How do I prevent soggy bars?
Ensure apples are tossed with flour and baked properly. Chilling before slicing helps as well.

4. Can I use pre-grated apples?
Chopped apples work best; grated apples may release too much moisture.

5. How can I make these bars extra festive?
Sprinkle powdered sugar on top before serving or drizzle with caramel or chocolate.

Cooking Timeline (at a Glance)

Task	Time
Prep	1 hour
Bake Crust	8–10 minutes
Bake Bars	45 minutes
Cooling	45 minutes + refrigeration
Total	2 hours 30 minutes

Serving Suggestions

• Slice neatly into squares using a sharp knife.
• Serve chilled for a firm texture or allow to warm slightly for a softer bite.
• Garnish with cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel for visual appeal.

Recipe Variations

1. Apple Cranberry Bars: Add fresh or dried cranberries to the apple layer.
2. Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars: Substitute some apples with pumpkin puree and extra spice.
3. Maple Streusel Bars: Replace brown sugar in the streusel with maple sugar and add a touch of maple syrup.
4. Mini Bars: Bake in a muffin tin for individual servings perfect for parties.

Ingredient Spotlight

Apples

• Selection: Firm, sweet-tart apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala.
• Storage: Store in a cool, dry place for a week or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
• Enhancing Flavor: Toss with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a bit of flour to maintain texture when baking.

Cream Cheese

• Selection: Full-fat for best texture; room temperature ensures smooth mixing.
• Storage: Keep refrigerated; check expiration for best results.
• Enhancing Flavor: Blend with brown sugar and spices for depth in cheesecake layer.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Mix on low speed to minimize air in cheesecake filling and prevent cracks.
• Use a light hand with apples: Too many can make the bars watery.
• Chill fully: Bars slice better and layers hold together.
• Press crust firmly: Ensures a stable base for creamy filling.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Short-term: Store refrigerated in an airtight container for 4–5 days.
• Long-term Freezing: Wrap individual bars in parchment and foil; freeze up to 2 months.
• Thawing: Overnight in fridge; optionally serve chilled or slightly warmed.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount	Notes
Calories	247	Energy-dense dessert
Protein	3.8 g	From cream cheese and eggs
Carbs	24.9 g	Sweet with natural fruit sugars
Sugars	13.8 g	Balanced with cinnamon spice
Fat	15.2 g	From butter and cream cheese
Cholesterol	56.3 mg	From eggs
Sodium	135.1 mg	Moderate sodium
Fiber	1–2 g	From apples

Expanded Conclusion

These Apple Streusel Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate autumn dessert: rich, flavorful, and visually stunning. The buttery crust, creamy cheesecake, tender cinnamon apples, and crunchy streusel create a harmonious medley of textures and flavors.

Perfect for holiday gatherings, weekend treats, or special occasions, these bars are as satisfying to make as they are to eat. Prepare a batch, share with loved ones, and savor every bite. Once you try these, they’ll become a go-to recipe in your dessert repertoire, bringing a little extra warmth and sweetness to any day.

Baking has never been so comforting or delicious—enjoy these bars and watch them disappear quickly!

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