Description
These Gluten Free Apple Cheesecake Bars offer a delightful combination of creamy cheesecake and sweet caramelized apples atop a gluten-free graham cracker crust. Perfect for a comforting dessert that suits gluten-free diets, these bars are easy to prepare and bake, ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups gluten-free graham cracker crumbs (or gluten-free cookie crumbs)
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup sugar
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz (2 cups) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose gluten-free flour (or cornstarch)
Caramelized Apples
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. In a bowl, combine the gluten-free graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes until the crust is golden and set. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
- Make the cheesecake filling: Beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add vanilla extract, eggs, sour cream, and gluten-free flour, mixing until fully combined. Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top evenly.
- Bake the cheesecake: Bake the cheesecake layer for 25-30 minutes at 325°F (163°C), or until the center feels slightly jiggly but set. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature.
- Caramelize the apples: Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt the butter. Add the sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft and caramelized. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Assemble and chill: Once the cheesecake is cooled, evenly spread the caramelized apples on top. Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow them to set completely.
- Serve: Slice into bars and enjoy your delicious gluten-free apple cheesecake bars.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for smoother mixing.
- Use fresh apples for the best flavor and texture in the topping.
- For easier slicing, chill the bars overnight.
- You can substitute the gluten-free graham cracker crumbs with your favorite gluten-free cookie crumbs.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
