Apple Butter Cheesecake Bars

by

Apple Butter Cheesecake Bars combine the creamy richness of cheesecake with the delightful flavors of apple butter, all nestled in a cinnamon-scented graham cracker crust. This dessert is the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, with a smooth filling that’s laced with the warm, spiced taste of apple butter. Whether for a fall gathering or any occasion, these bars are sure to impress your guests with their unique flavor and texture.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

Graham Cracker Crust:

  • Cooking spray
  • 3 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

Cheesecake Filling:

  • 3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, at room temperature
  • 3/4 cup sour cream, at room temperature
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 3 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3/4 cup apple butter

Directions:

  1. Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust:
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) with the rack positioned in the lower third of the oven. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with aluminum foil, leaving about a 2-inch overhang on the long sides. Lightly coat the pan and foil with cooking spray.
  2. Mix the Crust:
    In a large bowl, stir together the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, cinnamon, and salt until the mixture is evenly moistened. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
  3. Bake the Crust:
    Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 7 to 10 minutes, or until lightly golden and fragrant. Let it cool slightly, about 15 minutes. Reduce the oven temperature to 300°F (150°C).
  4. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
    Beat the cream cheese and sour cream in a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment on medium speed until fluffy and fully combined, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add the sugar and salt, and continue to beat on medium speed until fully incorporated, about 1 minute.
  5. Add the Eggs and Cream:
    Add the eggs one at a time, beating on low speed after each addition, just until combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract, beating on low speed until incorporated.
  6. Add the Apple Butter:
    Pour the cheesecake filling into the cooled graham cracker crust. Evenly dollop the apple butter over the filling. Use a butter knife or small spatula to swirl the apple butter into the filling in a zigzag motion, creating a decorative swirl effect.
  7. Bake the Cheesecake Bars:
    Place the baking pan inside a large roasting pan. Fill the roasting pan with boiling water, so it reaches halfway up the sides of the cheesecake pan. Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the cheesecake slightly jiggles when shaken but is set around the edges.
  8. Cool the Bars:
    Turn off the oven and leave the oven door cracked open for 7 to 8 inches. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 30 minutes. Remove the roasting pan from the oven and carefully take the cheesecake out of the water bath. Let it cool in the pan at room temperature for 30 minutes.
  9. Chill the Bars:
    Cover the cheesecake and refrigerate it until fully chilled, at least 4 hours or overnight.
  10. Serve:
    Using the foil overhang as handles, lift the cheesecake out of the pan and place it onto a cutting board. Cut it into 12 (3 x 2 1/2-inch) rectangles and serve chilled.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

  • Calories: 330 kcal
  • Total Fat: 22g (34% Daily Value)
    • Saturated Fat: 12g (60% Daily Value)
  • Cholesterol: 85mg (28% Daily Value)
  • Sodium: 234mg (10% Daily Value)
  • Total Carbohydrates: 29g (10% Daily Value)
    • Dietary Fiber: 1g (4% Daily Value)
    • Total Sugars: 18g
  • Protein: 5g (10% Daily Value)
  • Vitamin D: 4mcg (20% Daily Value)
  • Calcium: 64mg (5% Daily Value)
  • Iron: 1mg (6% Daily Value)
  • Potassium: 125mg (4% Daily Value)

These Apple Butter Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the comforting flavors of fall. The combination of the cinnamon graham cracker crust and the apple butter swirls creates an indulgent dessert perfect for any occasion. The result is a creamy, smooth cheesecake with a sweet, spiced twist that will have your guests coming back for more!

The Background of Apple Butter Cheesecake Bars

Cheesecake, in its many forms, is a classic dessert that has been adored for centuries. Its origins can be traced back to ancient Greece, where the concept of a rich, custard-like pie was introduced. Over time, cheesecake evolved, especially in America, where it became a favorite indulgence thanks to ingredients like cream cheese and sour cream. Today, cheesecake has endless variations, from classic New York-style to fruity, chocolatey, and spiced creations.

The addition of apple butter to this dessert is a nod to the rich, apple-growing tradition of the United States, especially in regions like New England and the Midwest, where apple butter is a beloved fall staple. Apple butter is made by cooking down apples with sugar and spices, creating a thick, caramelized spread that’s bursting with flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. When swirled into the creamy cheesecake filling, it adds not only an incredible flavor but also a beautiful visual contrast.

These Apple Butter Cheesecake Bars bring together the best of both worlds—rich, creamy cheesecake and the seasonal flavors of apple butter. The result is a dessert that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious.

Why These Apple Butter Cheesecake Bars Are the Best

1. A Perfect Balance of Flavors

One of the standout features of these cheesecake bars is the balance between the creamy, rich filling and the sweet, spiced apple butter. The graham cracker crust, which is enhanced with cinnamon, offers a warm, slightly crunchy foundation that complements the creamy filling. The apple butter, with its blend of cinnamon and nutmeg, adds a sweet, spicy swirl to the cheesecake, making each bite a delightful combination of smooth, rich, and warm flavors. The vanilla extract in the cheesecake filling also adds depth, rounding out the overall flavor profile.

The flavor balance in these bars makes them a perfect dessert for any occasion. They’re indulgent but not overly sweet, and they capture the cozy, comforting essence of fall without being too heavy.

2. A Visual and Textural Delight

Not only does this dessert taste incredible, but it also looks stunning. The apple butter swirls in the cheesecake create an eye-catching marbled effect, making each slice a visual treat. The smooth, velvety texture of the cheesecake contrasts with the crispiness of the graham cracker crust, providing a satisfying mix of textures in every bite. This combination of beauty and texture makes these bars a show-stopper at any gathering.

3. A Simple Yet Elegant Dessert

Despite being rich and decadent, Apple Butter Cheesecake Bars are surprisingly easy to make. The graham cracker crust requires just a few ingredients, and the cheesecake filling comes together quickly in a stand mixer. The addition of apple butter swirls is a simple yet elegant touch that elevates the flavor and appearance of the dessert. Plus, using a 9×13-inch pan means you can make plenty of servings at once—perfect for parties, family dinners, or holiday celebrations.

4. Perfect for Fall and Beyond

Apple Butter Cheesecake Bars are particularly well-suited for fall, as they combine the comforting flavors of apple, cinnamon, and nutmeg that are reminiscent of the season. However, this dessert is versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a cozy dinner at home, these cheesecake bars are a perfect choice. The apple butter gives them a seasonal twist, but their creamy texture and flavor make them suitable for any time of year.

Nutritional Benefits of Apple Butter Cheesecake Bars

While Apple Butter Cheesecake Bars are undeniably indulgent, they offer some nutritional benefits, particularly when made with whole ingredients like cream cheese, sour cream, and apple butter.

1. A Source of Calcium and Vitamin D

Each serving of these cheesecake bars provides calcium and vitamin D, which are important for maintaining strong bones and overall health. Cream cheese and sour cream are both rich in calcium, while the vitamin D in the eggs and heavy cream also supports bone and immune health.

2. Energy from Healthy Fats

Although these cheesecake bars are indulgent, they provide healthy fats from the butter, cream cheese, and heavy cream. These fats provide a good source of energy and help to keep you satisfied longer. Additionally, the fats in the cream cheese support the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like vitamins A, D, E, and K.

3. Moderate Sugar Content

While these bars are sweet, the sugar content is moderate compared to many other desserts, thanks to the use of apple butter and the sweetness of the cheesecake filling. Apple butter adds natural sweetness from the apples themselves, with minimal added sugars. You can even customize the recipe to reduce the sugar slightly if you prefer a less sweet dessert.

4. Protein-Rich

Each serving contains about 5g of protein, which comes from the cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream. Protein is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall bodily function, making this dessert a slightly more balanced option compared to other sweet treats.

Tips for Making the Perfect Apple Butter Cheesecake Bars

To ensure your Apple Butter Cheesecake Bars come out perfectly every time, here are a few tips:

1. Room Temperature Ingredients

Be sure to bring the cream cheese, sour cream, eggs, and heavy cream to room temperature before you start. This will help the ingredients combine smoothly and prevent lumps in the cheesecake filling.

2. Use a Water Bath for Even Baking

The water bath is key to preventing cracks and ensuring a creamy, smooth texture. The hot water around the pan helps the cheesecake bake evenly, preventing overcooking on the edges while keeping the center perfectly set. Make sure the water reaches about halfway up the sides of the pan for best results.

3. Let the Cheesecake Cool Slowly

After baking, let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door cracked open for a few minutes. This gradual cooling process helps prevent sudden temperature changes that could cause cracks in the cheesecake. Once cooled, refrigerate the bars for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to allow them to set properly.

4. Customize with Your Favorite Toppings

While the apple butter swirls are delicious on their own, you can also top your cheesecake bars with a variety of delicious toppings. Try adding a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a handful of toasted nuts for extra texture and flavor.

Conclusion: Why Apple Butter Cheesecake Bars Are the Ultimate Dessert

Apple Butter Cheesecake Bars offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that make them a standout dessert. The creamy, rich cheesecake filling paired with the sweet, spiced apple butter creates a dessert that feels both indulgent and comforting. With their easy preparation, stunning appearance, and the ability to serve a crowd, these bars are the perfect treat for fall gatherings, holiday celebrations, or any occasion that calls for something special.

The versatility of this dessert allows it to be customized to suit different tastes, and the rich nutritional profile adds a bit of balance to the indulgence. Whether you’re baking for a family dinner or a holiday party, these Apple Butter Cheesecake Bars will undoubtedly become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.

Pin2
Share
Tweet
2 Shares

Leave a Comment