Save Cream cheese, apple, and spiced oat layers combine for a comforting dessert bar with creamy, crunchy, and warmly spiced flavors in every bite.
This dessert quickly became a family favorite because of its delightful layers and easy preparation.
Ingredients
- 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
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- Step 2:
- For the 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.
- Step 3:
- While the crust bakes, beat softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until just combined. Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the slightly cooled crust.
- Step 4:
- In a separate bowl, toss diced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice until well coated. Distribute the apple mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer.
- Step 5:
- For the topping, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl. Add cold, cubed butter and blend with your fingers or a pastry blender until coarse crumbs form. Sprinkle evenly over the apple layer.
- Step 6:
- Bake for 35 40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the center is set.
- Step 7:
- Cool completely in the pan. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before lifting out and slicing into bars.
Save We enjoy these bars especially during holiday gatherings where everyone requests seconds.
Notes
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.
Required Tools
8x8-inch baking pan, parchment paper, mixing bowls, electric mixer or whisk, pastry blender or fork, spatula, knife for slicing
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (flour), Milk (cream cheese, butter), Egg. May contain Gluten (from flour and oats check oat packaging if gluten-sensitive). Always check product labels for potential allergens.
Save This dessert bar combines layered flavors that impress every time.
Recipe FAQ
- → What types of apples work best?
Tart apples like Granny Smith provide a balanced flavor and hold their shape well during baking.
- → Can I substitute the oats in the topping?
Rolled oats give a lovely crunch, but quick oats can be used in a pinch, though texture may vary.
- → How should I store these bars?
Keep bars refrigerated in an airtight container for up to four days to maintain freshness.
- → Is it important to chill before slicing?
Chilling helps bars set firmly, ensuring clean, neat slices and enhanced texture.
- → Can I make the crust without butter?
Butter contributes to flavor and texture, but a vegetable oil substitute may work, though results may differ.