You know that delightful moment when the aroma of freshly baked dessert fills your kitchen? That’s exactly what you’ll experience with these Apple Streusel Cheesecake Bars. Combining creamy cheesecake with the comforting sweetness of spiced apples and a crunchy streusel topping, they promise to be the star of any gathering or cozy night in. What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity—whipping up these bars takes just over an hour, making them perfect for bakers of any skill level. Plus, the layers of texture and flavor will have your family and friends coming back for seconds, proving that homemade desserts can be both indulgent and approachable. Ready to elevate your dessert game with this irresistible Apple Streusel Cheesecake Bars recipe? Let’s get started! Why are these bars a must-try? Irresistible combination: These Apple Streusel Cheesecake Bars blend creamy cheesecake, warm spiced apples, and a crunchy topping that will wow your taste buds. Quick prep time: With just over an hour needed, you can whip these up anytime you crave a delicious dessert. Perfect for gatherings: Their crowd-pleasing flavor makes them an ideal addition to any party or family gathering. Versatile options: Want to mix it up? Try swapping apples for pears or adding nuts for an extra crunch! Pair them with whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for added decadence. Discover more delightful desserts with our Biscoff Cookie Cheesecake or easy-to-make Cheesecake Ice Cream recipes. Apple Streusel Cheesecake Bars Ingredients Unlock the secret to these delightful bars! For the Crust Graham Cracker Crumbs – A smooth base for the crust; finely crush them for the best texture. Butter (1/2 cup, melted) – Binds the crust together beautifully; melting beforehand makes mixing a breeze. For the Cheesecake Layer Cream Cheese (4 oz, softened) – Creates the creamy cheesecake base; ensure it’s at room temperature for easy blending. Sugar (1 cup) – Sweetens the cheesecake perfectly; granulated sugar works best. Eggs (2 large, room temperature) – Essential for structure; room temperature eggs mix in better. Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Adds a warm depth of flavor; opt for pure vanilla for the greatest impact. For the Apple Filling Apples (3 cups, peeled, cored, sliced) – The star of the dish, bringing sweet and tart flavors; about 4 medium apples will do. Cinnamon (1 tsp) – Elevates the apple flavors with warmth and spice. All-Purpose Flour (1/4 cup) – Coats apples to absorb moisture and prevent sogginess. For the Streusel Topping Old-Fashioned Oats (1/2 cup) – Provides a delightful crunch to the topping. Brown Sugar (1/2 cup) – Moistens the streusel and adds a rich sweetness; light or dark both work wonderfully. Flour (1/4 cup) – Gives the streusel its crumbly texture. Butter (1/4 cup, melted) – Ensures the streusel mixture combines perfectly for that signature crumbly top. These Apple Streusel Cheesecake Bars are filled with layers of flavor and textures that will leave you wanting more! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Streusel Cheesecake Bars Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure an even bake. While it’s heating, line a 9×13 inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang to make removal easier later. This step is crucial for achieving that perfectly baked Apple Streusel Cheesecake Bars. Step 2: Create the Crust In a mixing bowl, combine finely crushed graham cracker crumbs with 1/2 cup of melted butter. Mix thoroughly until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Pour this mixture into your prepared baking dish, pressing firmly into the bottom to form a smooth and compact crust. Bake the crust for about 10 minutes, or until it is set and lightly golden. Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling In a separate bowl, blend 4 oz of softened cream cheese, 1 cup of sugar, 2 large room temperature eggs, and 1 tsp of vanilla extract using an electric mixer. Beat the mixture until silky smooth and free of lumps, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Once ready, pour this luscious cheesecake mixture over the warm crust, spreading it evenly to cover. Step 4: Prepare the Apple Layer Peel, core, and slice about 3 cups of apples, then toss them with 1 tsp of cinnamon and 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour in a large bowl. This coating helps prevent the apples from becoming soggy while baking. Spread the seasoned apples evenly over the cheesecake layer, ensuring every bite of your Apple Streusel Cheesecake Bars has that delightful fruit flavor. Step 5: Make the Streusel Topping In another bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of old-fashioned oats, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, and 1/4 cup of flour. Drizzle in 1/4 cup of melted butter, and stir the mixture with a fork until it resembles coarse crumbs. This streusel topping provides that wonderful crunch; sprinkle it generously over the apple layer, making it uneven for extra texture. Step 6: Bake to Perfection Loosely cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning, then place it in the preheated oven. Bake your Apple Streusel Cheesecake Bars for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the cheesecake is slightly set with a gentle jiggle in the center. This step is key to achieving that creamy, yet firm texture. Step 7: Cool and Slice Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature, which may take about 1-2 hours. Chilling will set the layers perfectly. Use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out, and then slice them into squares. Serve these delicious Apple Streusel Cheesecake Bars plain or with a delightful scoop of ice cream or dollop of whipped cream. How to Store and Freeze Apple Streusel Cheesecake Bars Room Temperature: These bars can be left out for up to 2 hours before needing to be refrigerated, perfect for serving at parties. Fridge: Store any leftover Apple Streusel Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container for up to 5 days to maintain their freshness. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bars in a sealed container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Reheating: To enjoy frozen bars, thaw them overnight in the fridge, then let them come to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture. Variations for Apple Streusel Cheesecake Bars Want to personalize your dessert experience? Let’s explore some delightful variations to customize these bars just the way you like them! Pears: Swap out apples for sliced pears for a sweeter, softer fruit option that pairs beautifully with cheesecake. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs and flour to make these bars safe and delicious for gluten-sensitive friends. Nuts: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to your streusel topping for an extra layer of crunch and a delightful nutty flavor. Spices: Experiment with spices like nutmeg or allspice in the apple mixture for a warm, cozy twist that will fill your kitchen with wonderful aromas. Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the bars before serving to elevate the sweetness and add a gourmet touch. Chocolate Chips: For a rich, indulgent twist, fold in some chocolate chips to the cheesecake layer for a decadent surprise in every bite. Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut cream for cream cheese and use a dairy-free butter alternative to cater to dairy-free diets while maintaining creaminess. Fruit Compote: Serve warm bars with a homemade berry or apple compote for extra fruitiness and a gorgeous presentation. With these variations, you can make the comforting Apple Streusel Cheesecake Bars your own. Love dessert ideas? You might also enjoy exploring our luscious Basque Burnt Cheesecake or the indulgent layers of Apple Crumble Cheesecake. Happy baking! What to Serve with Apple Streusel Cheesecake Bars Indulging in warm treats is even more delightful when you have the perfect accompaniments lined up for a cozy evening. Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy richness of melting vanilla ice cream creates a heavenly contrast to the warm bars, enhancing their indulgence. Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy touch, balancing the dense cheesecake and apples with elegance. Fresh Berries: Serve alongside plump strawberries or blueberries for a burst of freshness that cuts through the sweetness and adds vibrant color. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel over the bars for an extra touch of sweetness that adds a delightful gooey element to each bite. Chai Tea: A warm cup of chai tea provides spice and comfort, complementing the cinnamon-infused apples and softening the sweetness of the bars. Coffee: For a classic pairing, enjoy your bars with a rich cup of coffee; the bitterness beautifully contrasts with the creamy cheesecake base. Nutty Granola: Sprinkle some nutty granola on top for a crunchy texture that adds an extra flavor layer, creating a more sophisticated dessert experience. Mascarpone Cream: Fold some vanilla into creamy mascarpone and serve it on the side for a luxurious touch that enhances the overall dessert experience. Make Ahead Options These Apple Streusel Cheesecake Bars are a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the crust and cheesecake filling up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. For the topping, assemble the streusel and refrigerate it for up to 3 days, ensuring you cover it tightly to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply layer the components in the baking dish and top with the apples and streusel just before putting them in the oven. This prep work allows you to enjoy a delicious, homemade dessert with minimal effort on busy weeknights, delivering all the comforting flavors of these bars at your convenience! Expert Tips for Apple Streusel Cheesecake Bars Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother blend in your cheesecake layer. Baking Time Caution: Keep an eye on the baking time; overbaking can lead to a dry texture. Remove the bars when the cheesecake is slightly set but still jiggles in the center. Cooling Period: Let the bars cool completely before slicing. This aids in getting clean cuts and preserves the layers for a gorgeous presentation. Layer Protection: Prevent sogginess by coating the sliced apples in flour—this helps absorb excess moisture and keep your bars intact. Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover Apple Streusel Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months for future enjoyment. Give it Time: If frozen, let the bars thaw overnight in the fridge for the best flavor and texture before serving. Apple Streusel Cheesecake Bars Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best apples for my bars? When selecting apples for your Apple Streusel Cheesecake Bars, I recommend using a mix of sweet and tart varieties such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. Look for firm apples free from bruises or dark spots; this ensures a deliciously textured filling. The apples should be fresh, flavorful, and crisp for the best outcome. What is the best way to store leftovers? To keep your Apple Streusel Cheesecake Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will maintain their flavor and texture for up to 5 days. If you anticipate not finishing them within this time frame, you can freeze them instead. Can I freeze Apple Streusel Cheesecake Bars? Absolutely! To freeze your bars, first, let them cool completely. Then, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a sealed container. This method prevents freezer burn and preserves their wonderful taste for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them overnight in the fridge for the best results. What if my cheesecake bars are too soft after baking? If your cheesecake bars turn out too soft, don’t worry! They need to cool completely to set. If they are still too wobbly after cooling for a couple of hours, consider placing them in the refrigerator to firm up. If overbaking caused the problem, ensure you keep an eye on the baking time, removing them when they still have a gentle jiggle in the center. Are these bars safe for pets? It’s always wise to keep desserts like this out of reach of pets. While the ingredients are generally safe, the sugar and cream cheese could upset their stomachs. Always consult your veterinarian before giving human food to pets, as some ingredients could be harmful. Can I customize the recipe for gluten-free diets? Yes, you can easily make these Apple Streusel Cheesecake Bars gluten-free! Simply substitute regular graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free alternatives and use gluten-free flour in both the cheesecake layer and the streusel topping. This way, everyone can enjoy this delightful treat! Delicious Apple Streusel Cheesecake Bars for Cozy Evenings Apple Streusel Cheesecake Bars combine creamy cheesecake, spiced apples, and crunchy topping, perfect for any gathering or cozy night in. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 40 minutes minsCooling Time 2 hours hrsTotal Time 2 hours hrs 55 minutes mins Servings: 12 barsCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 300 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Crust1 cup Graham Cracker Crumbs Finely crushed for the best texture.1/2 cup Butter Melted.For the Cheesecake Layer4 oz Cream Cheese Softened and at room temperature.1 cup Sugar Granulated.2 large Eggs Room temperature.1 tsp Vanilla Extract Opt for pure vanilla.For the Apple Filling3 cups Apples Peeled, cored, and sliced.1 tsp Cinnamon1/4 cup All-Purpose FlourFor the Streusel Topping1/2 cup Old-Fashioned Oats1/2 cup Brown Sugar Light or dark.1/4 cup Flour1/4 cup Butter Melted. Equipment 9x13 inch baking dishMixing bowlsElectric mixerParchment paper Method Step‑By‑Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13 inch baking dish with parchment paper.Combine finely crushed graham cracker crumbs with 1/2 cup of melted butter. Mix until evenly moistened, then press into the bottom of the prepared dish.Blend cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour over the warm crust.Toss apples with cinnamon and flour, then spread evenly over the cheesecake layer.Mix oats, brown sugar, flour, and melted butter until crumbly, and sprinkle over the apple layer.Loosely cover with foil and bake for 35-40 minutes until the topping is golden and the cheesecake is set.Cool completely at room temperature for 1-2 hours before slicing. Nutrition Serving: 1barCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 4gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 180mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 2gSugar: 18gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 1mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
