Apple Butter Cheesecake Bars

Ever tried a dessert so cozy it feels like a warm hug on a chilly day? Apple Butter Cheesecake Bars do just that! These bars combine creamy cheesecake with sweet and spiced apple butter, nestled on a cinnamon graham cracker crust. The perfect fall dessert, right? In this recipe, we’ll dive into the steps to make these delicious bars, so get ready for a new favorite treat! Let’s break down all you need to know in this easy-to-follow guide to baking your own Apple Butter Cheesecake Bars.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy Texture: Every bite is smooth, rich, and perfectly creamy.
• Perfect for Fall: Apple butter and cinnamon make it the ultimate autumn treat.
• Easy to Make: Straightforward steps make it a breeze to bake.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Great for sharing at gatherings, dinners, or just as a treat!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepared in advance and served chilled.

What Do Taste Like?

Imagine the creaminess of a cheesecake, with hints of cinnamon and the warm apple flavor from apple butter. It’s sweet but not overly so, with a rich and velvety filling that pairs beautifully with a buttery graham cracker crust. These bars taste like fall in dessert form!

Ingredients

Graham Cracker Crust

• 3 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

Cheesecake Filling

• 3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, at room temperature
• 3/4 cup sour cream, at room temperature
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 3 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup apple butter

Kitchen Tools Needed

• 9 x 13-inch baking pan
• Aluminum foil
• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Rubber spatula
• Butter knife or small spatula
• Large roasting pan

How to Make Apple Butter Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), placing the rack in the lower third of the oven.
2. Line a 9 x 13-inch baking pan with aluminum foil, leaving a 2-inch overhang for easy removal later. Spray with cooking spray.
3. In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, cinnamon, and salt until mixed and moistened.
4. Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
5. Bake for 7–10 minutes until golden and fragrant, then let it cool for about 15 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 300°F (150°C).

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a stand mixer, beat cream cheese and sour cream on medium speed until fluffy (around 3–4 minutes).
2. Add sugar and salt, mixing until combined (1 minute).
3. Add eggs, one at a time, on low speed, scraping the sides as needed.
4. Pour in heavy cream and vanilla extract; mix until just combined.

Step 3: Assemble and Swirl

1. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust.
2. Add dollops of apple butter on top of the filling, then use a butter knife to swirl it in zig-zag patterns.

Step 4: Bake in a Water Bath

1. Place the baking pan inside a large roasting pan. Pour boiling water into the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the baking pan.
2. Bake at 300°F for 35–40 minutes until the cheesecake slightly jiggles but is set around the edges.

Step 5: Cool and Chill

1. Turn off the oven and leave the door cracked open for 30 minutes. Let the bars cool in the oven.
2. Remove from the water bath and cool at room temperature for 30 minutes. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

1. Using the foil overhang, lift the cheesecake out of the pan and onto a cutting board. Slice into 12 bars.
2. Serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.

What to Serve with Apple Butter Cheesecake Bars

• Fresh whipped cream: Adds a soft, airy texture.
• Caramel drizzle: A decadent finishing touch.
• Hot spiced cider or tea: Complements the warm spices.
• Vanilla ice cream: A creamy, cold pairing.

Tips for Making the Best Apple Butter Cheesecake Bars

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Helps achieve a smooth cheesecake filling.
• Don’t Overmix: This can cause air bubbles in the filling.
• Use a Water Bath: Prevents cracks and ensures even baking.
• Let It Chill: Chilling for at least 4 hours enhances the texture.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Store: Keep bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freeze: Wrap each bar in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Serve Chilled: These bars are best enjoyed cold, so no need to reheat!

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can I store Apple Butter Cheesecake Bars?

Stored in an airtight container, they last up to 5 days in the fridge.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Swap out the graham crackers for a gluten-free version.

What if I don’t have a roasting pan?

You can bake without a water bath, but it may lead to some cracking.

Can I use homemade apple butter?

Absolutely! Homemade apple butter works just as well.

Do I have to use foil?

Foil helps lift the bars out easily and prevents sticking.

Conclusion

These Apple Butter Cheesecake Bars are the perfect fall dessert, mixing the flavors of creamy cheesecake and spiced apple butter. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll impress friends and family without much effort. This recipe is a must-try treat this season, perfect for gatherings or just indulging at home.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 370
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Protein: 6g