What apples work best for this dessert?

Tart apples like Granny Smith offer a balanced flavor that complements the sweet and spiced layers well.

How do I achieve a crunchy topping?

Use cold, cubed butter mixed with oats, flour, and brown sugar to create coarse crumbs that crisp up during baking.

Yes, it can be chilled in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before slicing to ensure clean, neat bars.

Chill the bars thoroughly and use a sharp knife for neat, even slices.

Store leftovers refrigerated for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and texture.

Cream cheese, apple, and spiced oat layers combine for a comforting dessert bar with creamy, crunchy, and warmly spiced flavors in every bite.

This recipe has become a favorite dessert to share during fall gatherings thanks to its perfect balance of textures and flavors.

Crust: 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted, 1/4 teaspoon salt
Cheesecake Layer: 8 ounces cream cheese softened, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Apple Filling: 2 medium apples peeled, cored, and diced, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Crisp Topping: 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/3 cup rolled oats, 1/3 cup brown sugar, 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 cup unsalted butter cold and cubed

Preheat and Prepare:: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
Make Crust:: Mix flour, granulated sugar, melted butter, and salt in a medium bowl until crumbly. Press evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes.
Prepare Cheesecake Layer:: Beat softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until just combined. Spread evenly over the cooled crust.
Prepare Apple Filling:: Toss diced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice until well coated. Distribute evenly over the cheesecake layer.
Make Crisp Topping:: Combine flour, oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Add cold cubed butter and blend until coarse crumbs form. Sprinkle evenly over the apple layer.
Bake:: Bake for 35 40 minutes until topping is golden brown and center is set.
Cool and Chill:: Cool completely. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before lifting out and slicing into bars.

These bars always bring the family together especially during chilly autumn evenings.

For extra crunch add an additional handful of oats to the topping before baking. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.

8x8-inch baking pan, parchment paper, mixing bowls, electric mixer or whisk, pastry blender or fork, spatula, knife for slicing

Per bar (estimated): Calories 190, Total Fat 10 g, Carbohydrates 24 g, Protein 2 g

This dessert is a perfect blend of creamy and crunchy textures sure to impress your guests.

→ What apples work best for this dessert?: Tart apples like Granny Smith offer a balanced flavor that complements the sweet and spiced layers well.
→ How do I achieve a crunchy topping?: Use cold, cubed butter mixed with oats, flour, and brown sugar to create coarse crumbs that crisp up during baking.
→ Can I prepare this dessert in advance?: Yes, it can be chilled in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before slicing to ensure clean, neat bars.
→ Are there any tips for slicing clean bars?: Chill the bars thoroughly and use a sharp knife for neat, even slices.
→ How long can leftovers be stored?: Store leftovers refrigerated for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and texture.