Apple Butter Cheesecake Bars 🍏🥧

Introduction

Apple Butter Cheesecake Bars are a delightful dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet, spiced flavor of apple butter. Every bite of these bars melts in your mouth, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving something sweet, these bars will surely impress your family and friends.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Apple Butter Cheesecake Bars is not just about satisfying your sweet tooth; it’s also about enjoying the warm flavors of fall in every bite. This recipe is simple enough for beginners yet delicious enough to wow any dessert lover. Plus, the combination of creamy cheesecake and fragrant apple butter creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and unique.

How to Make Apple Butter Cheesecake Bars

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup apple butter
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Whipped cream or caramel sauce, for garnish (optional)

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Press this mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup sugar until smooth.
Add the eggs one at a time and stir in the vanilla extract.
Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust evenly.
In a small bowl, mix the apple butter with ground cinnamon and nutmeg. Use a knife to swirl this mixture into the filling.
Bake for 35-40 minutes, until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle.
Let the bars cool completely at room temperature. Then, refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours before slicing.
Slice and serve with whipped cream or caramel sauce, if desired.

How to Serve Apple Butter Cheesecake Bars

To serve Apple Butter Cheesecake Bars, cut them into squares and place them on a plate. You can add a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce on top for an extra touch. They are perfect for a dessert table at parties or just as a sweet treat at home.

How to Store Apple Butter Cheesecake Bars

To store these cheesecake bars, make sure they are fully cooled and cut into squares. Place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 5-7 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just wrap them tightly and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag.

Tips to Make Apple Butter Cheesecake Bars

Make sure your cream cheese is softened for easier mixing.
You can adjust the spices to your liking; add more cinnamon or nutmeg if you prefer a stronger flavor.
Use fresh apple butter for the best taste. You can also make your own if you have the time!

Variations

You can customize your Apple Butter Cheesecake Bars by mixing in nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, or adding a layer of fresh sliced apples on top before baking. These small changes can add extra texture and flavor.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make these bars ahead of time?
A1: Yes! These bars can be made a day or two in advance. Just keep them stored in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve.

Q2: Is it possible to use store-bought apple butter?
A2: Absolutely! Store-bought apple butter works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to pick one that you enjoy the taste of.

Q3: Can I use a different type of crust?
A3: Yes! While graham cracker crumbs are traditional, you can try using Oreo crumbs or a cookie crust for a different flavor profile.

Enjoy making these delicious Apple Butter Cheesecake Bars, and watch as they become a new favorite in your recipe collection!

Apple Butter Cheesecake Bars

A delightful dessert combining the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet, spiced flavor of apple butter, perfect for any occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 40

Total Time 4

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 16 squares

Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients

For the crust

1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
0.25 cups granulated sugar
0.5 cups unsalted butter, melted

For the cheesecake filling

16 oz cream cheese, softened
0.5 cups granulated sugar
2 large eggs eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
0.5 cups apple butter
0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
0.25 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Whipped cream or caramel sauce, for garnish optional

Instructions

Preparation

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Press this mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.

Making the Filling

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup sugar until smooth.
Add the eggs one at a time and stir in the vanilla extract.
Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust evenly.
In a small bowl, mix the apple butter with ground cinnamon and nutmeg. Use a knife to swirl this mixture into the filling.

Baking

Bake for 35-40 minutes, until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle.
Let the bars cool completely at room temperature. Then, refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours before slicing.
Slice and serve with whipped cream or caramel sauce, if desired.

Notes

Make sure your cream cheese is softened for easier mixing. You can adjust the spices to your liking; add more cinnamon or nutmeg if you prefer a stronger flavor. Use fresh apple butter for the best taste. You can also make your own if you have the time!

Keyword apple butter, bars, Cheesecake, Dessert, fall recipes