Description
These Gluten Free Apple Cheesecake Bars combine a buttery gluten-free graham cracker crust with a creamy vanilla cheesecake filling topped with tender, caramelized cinnamon apples. Perfectly balanced in sweetness and texture, these bars offer a deliciously rich dessert that is both gluten free and irresistibly satisfying.
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 Apple Topping
- 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, mix the gluten-free graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan to form an even layer. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until golden and set. Let it cool.
- Make the cheesecake filling: Beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add vanilla extract, eggs, sour cream, and gluten-free flour, mixing until fully combined and smooth. Pour the filling evenly over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly but mostly set. Allow it to cool to room temperature.
- Caramelize the apples: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the thinly sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Cook while stirring occasionally for 5-7 minutes, or until the apples become tender and caramelized. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly.
- Assemble and chill: Once the cheesecake has cooled to room temperature, spread the caramelized apple topping evenly over it. Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the bars to set completely.
- Serve: Once fully chilled and set, slice the cheesecake into bars and serve chilled. Enjoy your gluten free apple cheesecake bars!
Notes
- Make sure to use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or cookie crumbs to keep this dessert gluten-free.
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing and a smooth filling.
- The apples can be swapped for your favorite variety; tart apples like Granny Smith work best for balance.
- If you prefer more sweetness, increase the brown sugar slightly in the apple topping.
- Store leftover bars covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- These bars can be made a day ahead, making them great for entertaining or meal prep.
