Introduction

There’s nothing quite like the combination of creamy cheesecake and the sweet, spiced flavors of apple pie to create a dessert that delights the senses. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Apple Pie Cheesecake Squares. This delightful treat merges the best of both worlds, making it ideal for gatherings, celebrations, or simply indulging yourself after a long day. In this post, we will walk through the ingredients, the preparation process, and some helpful tips to ensure your Apple Pie Cheesecake Squares turn out perfectly every time.

Ingredients List

To create those delectable Apple Pie Cheesecake Squares, you will need the following ingredients:

For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon

For the cheesecake filling:
– 3 (8 oz) packages of cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 3 large eggs

For the apple pie filling:
– 3 cups chopped apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Timing

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Chilling time: 2 hours
Total time: Approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes before serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

2. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon for the crust. Mix until the crumbs are fully coated and the mixture resembles wet sand.

3. Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for about 10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.

4. While the crust is cooling, prepare your cheesecake filling. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy using an electric mixer.

5. Gradually add the sugar and continue to beat until well combined. Mix in the vanilla extract. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition until just combined.

6. In a separate bowl, prepare the apple pie filling. Toss the chopped apples with sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and cornstarch until well coated.

7. Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust, smoothing it out with a spatula. Layer the apple pie filling evenly on top of the cheesecake layer. Finally, pour the remaining cheesecake batter over the apples.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is set and only slightly jiggly. Allow the dessert to cool at room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator to chill for at least two hours.

9. Once chilled, lift the cheesecake out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Cut into squares and serve with a drizzle of caramel sauce, if desired.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a general breakdown of the nutritional information per square, based on typical serving sizes:

– Calories: 210
– Total Fat: 12g
– Saturated Fat: 7g
– Cholesterol: 45mg
– Sodium: 200mg
– Total Carbohydrates: 25g
– Dietary Fiber: 1g
– Sugars: 15g
– Protein: 3g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

Tips

– Choose the right apples: For a perfect apple filling, opt for a balance of sweet and tart apples—Granny Smith offers tartness, while Honeycrisp gives a touch of sweetness.
– Room temperature ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for an easy blend, leading to a smoother filling.
– Don’t overmix: When incorporating the eggs into the cheesecake mixture, beat on low speed and only until combined to avoid a dense texture.
– Let it chill: Chilling the cheesecake squares for several hours improves the flavor and texture, making them easier to cut as well.

Alternative Methods

If you’re looking to switch things up a bit or accommodate different dietary needs, consider these alternative methods:

– Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular graham cracker crumbs for gluten-free ones to create a gluten-free crust.
– No-Bake Version: For a no-bake option, skip the baking steps and use a chilled crust made from crushed cookies or nuts mixed with melted butter, then layer the cheesecake and apple filling on top.
– Dairy-Free Adaptation: Use dairy-free cream cheese alternatives and non-dairy yogurt for a dairy-free version of this dessert.
– Make it Vegan: Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce and use non-dairy cream cheese for a vegan Apple Pie Cheesecake Square.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

– Overbaking: Keep an eye on your cheesecake as it bakes. You want it to be set but still have a slight jiggle in the center.
– Poor apple preparation: Cut your apples into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Avoid using overly soft apples, as they can turn mushy during baking.
– Not letting it chill: Skipping the chilling step can lead to a dessert that falls apart when served. Patience is key!
– Miscalculating the sugar: Too much sugar can make the cheesecake overly sweet, while too little might result in a bland flavor. Follow the recipe carefully.

Conclusion

These Apple Pie Cheesecake Squares embody the perfect blend of flavors and textures that make desserts truly special. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering or enjoying them as an indulgent treat after dinner, they have the power to please any crowd. By thoughtfully following the recipe and utilizing the tips provided, you will create a dessert that not only tastes magnificent but also looks stunning on your tabletop. Remember to satisfy your sweet tooth with these irresistible Apple Pie Cheesecake Squares, and don’t forget to return to my website for new recipes and more culinary inspirations!

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought apple pie filling?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, using store-bought filling is a convenient option. Just ensure it complements the flavors of your cheesecake.

2. How can I store leftovers?
Keep leftover Apple Pie Cheesecake Squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. They also freeze well for up to three months.

3. Can I add other fruits?
Feel free to experiment with other fruits, such as pears or berries, if you’re in the mood for a twist on the classic flavor profile.

4. Can I make these in advance?
Yes, the cheesecake squares can be made a day in advance. Just remember to chill them overnight for the best results.

5. What can I serve alongside these squares?
Serve with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce for an extra indulgence!

With this delightful recipe for Apple Pie Cheesecake Squares at your fingertips, get ready to whip up an unforgettable dessert that your friends and family will rave about. Happy baking!