A Homemade Fall Dessert That Melts in Your Mouth
When it comes to cozy fall desserts, nothing compares to the rich, creamy goodness of Apple Pecan Cheesecake Bars. This homemade treat layers a buttery graham cracker crust, a silky cheesecake filling, warmly spiced apples, and a toasted pecan streusel topping — all in one divine square. If you’re looking for an easy dessert that tastes like autumn in every bite, this recipe is your new go-to.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to make Apple Pecan Cheesecake Bars from scratch: a full ingredient breakdown, step-by-step instructions, helpful baking tips, and answers to the most common questions. Whether you’re baking for Thanksgiving, a holiday potluck, or just a cozy night in, this dessert is guaranteed to impress.
🥧 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy to Make at Home: No need for a springform pan or water bath!
Perfect Fall Flavor: Apples, cinnamon, brown sugar, and pecans bring all the cozy vibes.
Make-Ahead Friendly: These bars are great for preparing in advance.
Crowd-Pleasing: A hit with both cheesecake lovers and apple dessert fans alike.
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📝 Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Crust:
1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 full sheets)
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Layer:
16 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
¼ cup sour cream
For the Apple Layer:
2 medium apples, peeled and finely diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best)
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
¼ tsp nutmeg
1 tsp lemon juice
For the Pecan Streusel Topping:
½ cup chopped pecans
⅓ cup all-purpose flour
⅓ cup brown sugar
¼ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
½ tsp cinnamon
🍽️ Step-by-Step Instructions
🔹 Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
Bake for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden. Set aside to cool slightly.
🔹 Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
Add sugar, and beat until well incorporated.
Mix in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla and sour cream.
Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust and spread evenly.
🔹 Step 3: Prepare the Apple Layer
In a small bowl, toss diced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice.
Evenly sprinkle the apple mixture over the cheesecake layer.
🔹 Step 4: Add the Pecan Streusel
In another bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, chopped pecans, cinnamon, and cold cubed butter.
Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to form coarse crumbs.
Sprinkle the streusel topping over the apples.
🔹 Step 5: Bake
Bake the bars at 325°F (163°C) for 40–45 minutes, or until the center is set and doesn’t jiggle.
Cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight).
🔹 Step 6: Slice and Serve
Lift the bars out using the parchment paper, slice into squares, and serve chilled or at room temp.
🍂 Pro Tips for Perfect Apple Pecan Cheesecake Bars
Use room temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps.
Dice apples finely for even baking and better texture.
Don’t skip chilling — cheesecake needs time to set for clean slices.
Line your pan well with parchment for stress-free removal.
Make a double batch — they’ll disappear fast!
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overbaking the cheesecake: This results in a dry, cracked texture. Stop baking when the center is just set.
Not cooling before chilling: Placing hot cheesecake in the fridge can create condensation and ruin the texture.
Cutting too early: Chilling is crucial for firmness and clean cuts.
Using tart apples without balancing: If using Granny Smith, don’t skip the sugar and lemon juice combo.
📊 Nutritional Information (Per Serving – based on 16 squares)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 295 kcal |
| Total Fat | 20g |
| Saturated Fat | 11g |
| Cholesterol | 65mg |
| Sodium | 160mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 26g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 17g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Calcium | 5% DV |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
🔄 Tips & Variations
🥄 Swaps and Add-Ins
Crust Options: Try using vanilla wafers, shortbread cookies, or crushed pecans for variety.
Add caramel drizzle for a richer, decadent touch.
Maple syrup in the topping gives a sweet, earthy flavor perfect for fall.
🍏 Apple Options
Best apples: Granny Smith (for tart), Honeycrisp (for sweet), or a mix of both.
Make it even more festive with dried cranberries or chopped dates.
🍫 Want More Indulgence?
Add a swirl of caramel sauce or dulce de leche into the cheesecake layer.
Mix in mini chocolate chips for a sweet surprise.
🧊 Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storage:
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Wrap bars tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating (Optional):
These bars are best served chilled, but you can warm them slightly in the microwave for 10–15 seconds if you prefer them soft.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make Apple Pecan Cheesecake Bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, they taste even better the next day. Prepare and refrigerate overnight before slicing and serving.
2. What’s the best type of apple to use?
Granny Smith apples hold their shape and add a nice tart contrast, while Honeycrisp gives a sweeter balance. Use a mix for the best flavor.
3. Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust and gluten-free flour for the topping. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
4. Can I make this into a full cheesecake instead of bars?
You can! Use a 9-inch springform pan and bake for about 55–65 minutes. The result will be thicker, so allow extra chilling time.
📣 Save & Share This Irresistible Dessert!
If these Apple Pecan Cheesecake Bars made your mouth water, don’t keep the goodness to yourself! 📌 Save this recipe to Pinterest, share it on social media, or send it to a fellow fall dessert lover. Whether you’re planning a holiday gathering or a cozy weekend bake, these bars are sure to be a standout hit.
