Apple Butter Cheesecake Bars Recipe: Introduction
Apple butter cheesecake bars are a delightful fusion of two beloved desserts: creamy cheesecake and rich, spiced apple butter. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth cheesecake filling, and a swirl of apple butter, these bars are perfect for fall or any time you crave a cozy, sweet treat. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just want to indulge in a seasonal dessert, these apple butter cheesecake bars are easy to make and guaranteed to impress. The warm spices and creamy texture make these bars a must-try!
Total Time Breakdown
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 40 minutes
- Chill time: 2 hours
- Total time: 2 hours 55 minutes
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the apple butter swirl:
- 1/2 cup apple butter
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
Step-by-Step Directions with Time
Prepare the Crust (10 minutes)
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
Make the Cheesecake Filling (5 minutes)
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
Prepare the Apple Butter Swirl (5 minutes)
- In a small bowl, mix apple butter with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
Assemble the Bars (5 minutes)
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust. Dollop spoonfuls of the apple butter mixture on top and use a knife to gently swirl it into the cheesecake.
Bake the Cheesecake Bars (40 minutes)
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are slightly golden. Remove from the oven and let the bars cool to room temperature.
Chill and Serve (2 hours)
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing into squares. Serve chilled.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the bars topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flair.
- Pair with a cup of spiced chai or hot apple cider to enhance the fall flavors.
- For a special dessert presentation, drizzle caramel sauce over the bars before serving.
Tips for Success
- Room temperature cream cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is softened for a smooth, lump-free filling.
- Use parchment paper: Lining the baking pan with parchment paper makes it easy to lift the bars out and slice them neatly.
- Chill fully before cutting: Refrigerating the bars allows them to set properly, making slicing easier and cleaner.
How to Customize Apple Butter Cheesecake Bars
- Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust to make this dessert gluten-free.
- Add toppings: Sprinkle chopped pecans or a streusel topping over the apple butter swirl for added crunch.
- Swap the apple butter: Use pumpkin butter or pear butter instead of apple butter for a twist on the classic flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought apple butter?
Yes, store-bought apple butter works perfectly for this recipe, but homemade apple butter adds an extra touch of flavor.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, these cheesecake bars can be made 1-2 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
3. Can I freeze apple butter cheesecake bars?
Yes, you can freeze the bars for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
4. How long will the bars last in the fridge?
These bars will last up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Apple butter cheesecake bars are an irresistible dessert that brings together creamy, spiced flavors with a satisfying crunch. Perfect for fall or any special occasion, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
