Get ready to indulge in a dessert that combines the best of both worlds: the rich creaminess of cheesecake and the comforting flavors of apple pie! These Maple Apple Pie Cheesecake Bars are not just a treat for your taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, making them the perfect addition to any gathering or a delightful way to sweeten your day. With a luscious filling made from cream cheese, sweet apples, and a hint of maple syrup, all resting on a buttery graham cracker crust, these bars are sure to leave everyone craving more. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to impress your friends and family with this irresistible dessert that’s easier to make than you might think!
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 3 large eggs
- 2 cups diced apples
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by greasing it lightly with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are fully coated and the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the graham cracker mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust. Use the back of a measuring cup or your fingers to compact it well.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until it is lightly golden and set. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
- Add the granulated sugar and maple syrup to the cream cheese, and continue to beat until well combined and fluffy, about 2 more minutes.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is well incorporated.
- Gently fold in the diced apples and cinnamon using a spatula, being careful not to overmix.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake the cheesecake bars in the oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle. The top should be lightly golden.
- Once baked, remove the cheesecake bars from the oven and let them cool in the baking dish at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
- After cooling, refrigerate the cheesecake bars for at least 2 hours or until fully chilled and set.
- Once chilled, cut the cheesecake into squares and serve. Optionally, drizzle with additional maple syrup or top with whipped cream before serving.
Tips
- Choose the Right Apples: For the best flavor and texture, opt for a mix of sweet and tart apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. This will give your cheesecake bars a well-rounded taste.
- Soften Your Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This will help you achieve a smooth and creamy filling without any lumps.
- Don’t Overmix: When folding in the apples and cinnamon, be gentle. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture, so just combine until evenly distributed.
- Cool Properly: Allow the cheesecake bars to cool at room temperature before refrigerating. This helps them set properly and enhances the flavors.
- Serve with Style: For an extra special touch, drizzle your cheesecake bars with warm maple syrup or top them with a dollop of whipped cream just before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 385kcal
Carbohydrates: 42g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Cholesterol: 110mg
