Save to Pinterest Luscious, creamy bars featuring a cinnamon-swirled cream cheese filling and tender baked apples atop a buttery crust—a perfect treat for fall or any time.
I first made these bars for a fall gathering and they disappeared in minutes everyone loved the combination of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
- Crust: 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar, 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter cold and cubed, 1/4 tsp salt
- Cream Cheese Filling: 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese softened, 1/3 cup (65 g) granulated sugar, 1 large egg, 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- Apple Cinnamon Swirl: 2 medium apples (preferably Granny Smith) peeled cored and finely diced, 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 1/4 cup (50 g) brown sugar, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg, 1/2 tsp lemon juice, Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch (20x20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- Step 2:
- For the crust In a medium bowl combine flour sugar and salt. Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 15 minutes until lightly golden. Set aside.
- Step 3:
- For the apples In a skillet over medium heat melt butter. Add diced apples brown sugar cinnamon nutmeg lemon juice and a pinch of salt. Cook stirring for 5-7 minutes until apples are tender and juices are slightly thickened. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Step 4:
- For the cream cheese filling In a bowl beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add egg and vanilla mix until combined.
- Step 5:
- Spread cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
- Step 6:
- Spoon the apple mixture over the cream cheese layer. Using a knife gently swirl the apples into the cream cheese layer for a marbled effect.
- Step 7:
- Bake for 25 minutes or until the center is set and edges are lightly golden.
- Step 8:
- Cool completely in the pan. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before lifting out and cutting into bars.
Save to Pinterest My family always gathers around these bars during fall holidays sharing stories and laughter with a warm slice in hand.
Notes
For extra crunch sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking. Swap apples for pears or use a gluten-free flour blend for dietary needs. Serve chilled or at room temperature; pairs well with black tea or apple cider.
Required Tools
8x8-inch (20x20 cm) baking pan Mixing bowls Electric mixer or whisk Skillet Spatula Knife
Nutritional Information
Per serving Calories 180 Total Fat 9 g Carbohydrates 22 g Protein 2 g
Save to Pinterest These bars are ideal for make-ahead desserts perfect for sharing or gifting.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of apples work best?
Granny Smith apples are preferred for their tartness and firm texture, which holds well when cooked and complements the creamy filling.
- → Can I substitute the butter in the crust?
Using cold, unsalted butter helps create a flaky crust, but you might try coconut oil or margarine for variation, though textures may differ.
- → How is the cinnamon swirl effect achieved?
The diced apples cooked with cinnamon and spices are gently spooned and swirled into the cream cheese layer before baking to create a marbled appearance.
- → Is chilling necessary before slicing?
Yes, refrigerating the bars for at least 2 hours helps them set properly, making slicing easier and maintaining the swirl pattern.
- → Can nuts be added for crunch?
Yes, chopped pecans or walnuts can be sprinkled on top before baking to add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.