Apple Cheesecake Bars are a delectable dessert that combines the delightful flavors of apple pie with the creamy goodness of cheesecake. This sweet treat is a delightful fusion of textures and tastes, perfect for those who love the comforting flavors of apple desserts and the indulgence of cheesecake.

The history of apple desserts can be traced back to ancient times when apples were a popular fruit in Europe and Asia. As civilizations developed, so did various recipes that incorporated apples into sweet and savory dishes. Apple pie, in particular, has a rich history in Europe and North America, becoming an iconic American dessert over the centuries.

Cheesecake, as mentioned earlier, has its roots in ancient Greece and Rome, but it has evolved significantly over time. In the United States, cheesecake gained popularity during the 1900s and became a beloved dessert that was often served in upscale restaurants and at special occasions.

The combination of apple and cheesecake in the form of bars is a more recent twist on traditional desserts, showcasing the culinary creativity and experimentation of modern bakers. This delightful dessert brings together the warmth of apple pie spices, the smooth creaminess of cheesecake, and the crumbly texture of a bar, offering a delightful and comforting treat that will please any dessert enthusiast.

INGREDIENTS

Bars:

• 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup old-fashioned oats
• 1/2 cup toasted walnut flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 apples, peeled, cored, and chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
• 1 cup caramel bits

Cheesecake:

• 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Line an 8-inch-by-8-inch square pan with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.

For the Bars:

1. In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, brown sugar, old-fashioned oats, toasted walnut flour, ground cinnamon, and kosher salt. Stir the ingredients until well combined.
2. Stir in the melted unsalted butter and vanilla extract until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Press a little more than half of the oat mixture into the bottom of your prepared pan to create the crust.

For the Cheesecake:

1. In a separate bowl, add the cream cheese and granulated sugar. Using a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy, which should take about 1 minute.
2. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until the mixture becomes smooth and well combined.

Assembling the Bars:

1. Evenly spread the cheesecake mixture over the shortbread crust in the pan.
2. Top the cheesecake layer evenly with the chopped apples and caramel bits.
3. Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the apples to create a crumbly topping.
4. Bake the bars in the preheated oven for approximately 35-40 minutes or until the crust becomes golden brown and the apples are tender.
5. Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
6. Remove the bars from the pan and cut them into squares for serving.
7. Store the cooled squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness.

Apple Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat that marries the comforting flavors of apple desserts with the indulgence of creamy cheesecake. Enjoy these bars as a delightful dessert to share with friends and family or as a comforting treat for yourself. The combination of flavors and textures will leave you craving more!