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When it comes to indulgent dessert bars, few combinations are as enchanting as apple and cinnamon. These two flavors not only evoke a sense of warmth and comfort but also transport us back to cozy autumn days filled with the aroma of baked treats wafting through the air. Among the myriad of desserts that celebrate these flavors, Heavenly Apple Cinnamon Cheesecake Bars stand out as a beloved choice for both casual gatherings and festive celebrations.

Apple Cinnamon Cheesecake Bars

Satisfy your sweet tooth with Heavenly Apple Cinnamon Cheesecake Bars, a perfect blend of creamy cheesecake, tender spiced apples, and a buttery graham cracker crust. This delightful dessert captures the essence of autumn with its warm flavors and inviting aroma. Easy to prepare and beautifully presented, these bars are ideal for gatherings or a cozy night in. Treat yourself and impress your guests with this scrumptious recipe that’s sure to become a favorite!
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Ingredients
  

For the crust:

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

½ cup unsalted butter, melted

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the cheesecake filling:

16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese, softened to room temperature

1 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

2 large eggs, at room temperature

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 cup sour cream, at room temperature

For the apple topping:

3 medium apples, peeled and thinly sliced (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for tartness)

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1/4 cup packed brown sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9x9-inch baking pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

    Make the Crust: In a medium mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Firmly press this mixture into an even layer at the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, remove it from the oven, and allow it to cool slightly.

      Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, with an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until creamy and smooth. Gradually add in the granulated sugar, continuing to mix until well incorporated. Add in the vanilla extract, followed by the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Next, blend in the ground cinnamon and sour cream. Beat until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy.

        Layer the Filling: Pour the luscious cheesecake filling over the pre-baked crust, using a spatula to gently smooth the surface.

          Prepare the Apple Topping: In a separate bowl, toss together the sliced apples with lemon juice, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter until they are evenly coated.

            Add Apple Topping: Carefully layer the apple mixture over the cheesecake filling, pressing the apple slices down gently to ensure they adhere to the filling.

              Bake: Place the pan back in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center retains a slight jiggle. After baking, turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for about 1 hour.

                Chill: Once cooled, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it reach room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator. Chill for at least 4 hours, but overnight is preferred for the best texture.

                  Serve: When ready to serve, lift the cheesecake out of the pan using the parchment paper (if used) for easy removal. Cut into 16 bars and serve with an optional sprinkle of ground cinnamon on top for an extra touch.

                    Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 5 hours | Servings: 16 bars

                      - Presentation Tips: For an added visual appeal, consider garnishing each bar with a thin slice of apple and a dollop of whipped cream before serving!