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 thanks to its layers of flavor and texture that perfectly balance each other.
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 These bars have been a hit at family gatherings, bringing everyone together over a shared love of dessert.
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 is perfect for sharing and easy to store making it an ideal choice for celebrations or everyday treats.
Recipe Questions
- → What type of apples work best for these bars?
Tart varieties like Granny Smith provide a nice balance to the sweet layers, holding their shape well during baking.
- → Can I substitute rolled oats in the topping?
Rolled oats create the ideal texture, but quick oats can be used in a pinch, though the topping may be less crunchy.
- → How should I store the bars after baking?
Keep them refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and texture.
- → Is it necessary to chill the bars before slicing?
Chilling for at least 2 hours firms the bars, making slicing cleaner and easier without crumbling.
- → Can I add extra oats for more crunch?
Yes, adding an additional handful of oats to the topping enhances crunchiness without compromising the texture.