Imagine sinking your teeth into a creamy, tangy cheesecake bar studded with fresh green apples, sitting atop a buttery graham cracker crust that crumbles perfectly with each bite. These Green Apple Cheesecake Bars are not just a dessert; they're a culinary experience that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary treat that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe promises to deliver restaurant-quality deliciousness right from your own kitchen!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- 2 cups green apples, peeled and diced
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/2 cup sugar, and melted butter. Mix thoroughly until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the graham cracker mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Use the back of a measuring cup to create a compact, smooth base.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup sugar using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time to the cream cheese mixture, beating well after each addition and scraping down the sides of the bowl.
- Gently fold the diced green apples into the cream cheese mixture, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Pour the cream cheese and apple mixture over the prepared graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely at room temperature for about 1 hour.
- Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the bars to set completely.
- Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the bars out of the pan and cut into 12 even squares.
- Serve chilled and store any remaining bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Make sure your cream cheese is completely softened at room temperature to ensure a smooth, lump-free filling.
- Use firm green apples like Granny Smith for the best balance of tartness and texture.
- Don't overmix the cheesecake batter to prevent introducing too much air, which can cause cracking.
- Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating to prevent condensation.
- For clean, precise cuts, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between each slice.
- Enhance the bars with a light dusting of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce before serving for extra pizzazz.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Cholesterol: 85mg
