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Apples have long been a staple of fall traditions, celebrated for their versatility and delicious flavor. From warm apple pies to spiced cider, these fruits take center stage in many seasonal recipes. The significance of apples in dessert-making goes beyond taste; they symbolize harvest time and the warmth of home-cooked meals. Their natural sweetness and tartness make them an ideal ingredient for a variety of treats, particularly when paired with spices.

Apple Cinnamon Cheesecake Bars

Fall in love with the flavors of autumn with these Dreamy Apple Cinnamon Cheesecake Bars. This delightful dessert features a crispy graham cracker crust topped with a luscious cream cheese layer, warm baked apples, and aromatic spices. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, these bars bring nostalgia and comfort in every bite. Indulge in this satisfying treat that marries rich and creamy textures with the natural sweetness of apples for a memorable fall dessert experience.
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Ingredients
  

For the crust:

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

½ cup unsalted butter, melted

2 tablespoons granulated sugar

1 teaspoon cinnamon

For the apple filling:

2 cups Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 tablespoon lemon juice

½ teaspoon vanilla extract

For the cheesecake layer:

16 oz cream cheese, softened

¾ cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

½ cup sour cream

1 teaspoon lemon zest

For topping:

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1 tablespoon sugar

Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Mix well until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a lined 9x9-inch baking pan to form a crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then let it cool.

    Prepare the apple filling: In a medium bowl, toss diced apples with brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well combined. Set aside to let the flavors meld.

      Make the cheesecake layer: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with ¾ cup granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add in the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and lemon zest until fully incorporated.

        Assemble the bars: Pour half of the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust. Layer the prepared apple filling evenly over the cheesecake layer. Then pour the remaining cheesecake mixture over the apple layer, spreading gently to cover.

          Top it off (optional): In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of sugar with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture over the top of the cheesecake layer. If desired, add chopped walnuts or pecans for some added crunch.

            Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set and slightly jiggles in the center. It should not be overly firm.

              Cool: Remove the cheesecake bars from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 1 hour at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for better slicing.

                Serve: Lift the cheesecake out of the pan using the parchment paper. Slice into bars and serve chilled. Enjoy the delightful combination of apples, cinnamon, and creamy cheesecake!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 1 hour 10 minutes | 12 bars