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 recipe quickly became a family favorite dessert that invites warm smiles and second helpings at every gathering.
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
- Preheat Oven:
- 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 the cheesecake mixture evenly over the slightly cooled crust.
- Apple Filling:
- Toss diced apples with brown sugar cinnamon nutmeg and lemon juice until well coated. Distribute the apple mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer.
- Make 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.
- Bake:
- Bake for 35 40 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the center is set.
- Cool and Chill:
- Cool completely in the pan. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before lifting out and slicing into bars.
Save Sharing these bars with family creates warm moments filled with laughter and stories around the dessert table.
Notes
For extra crunch add an additional handful of oats to the topping before baking. Bars store well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. 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 is perfect for any occasion offering a delicious blend of creamy and spiced flavors in every bite.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of apples work best?
Tart apples like Granny Smith provide balanced flavor and hold their shape well when baked.
- → Can I prepare the layers ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the bars and refrigerate briefly before baking to enhance melding of flavors.
- → How do I achieve a crunchy topping?
Use cold cubed butter mixed into the oat flour mixture and avoid over-blending for a crisp texture.
- → What’s the best way to slice these bars?
Chill thoroughly in the refrigerator before slicing to achieve clean, neat bars.
- → Can I add extra spices for more flavor?
Yes, adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice enhances warm, aromatic notes without overpowering the apples.