Description
These Gluten Free Apple Cheesecake Bars feature a buttery, crisp gluten-free crust topped with a creamy vanilla cheesecake filling and adorned with tender, caramelized apple slices. Perfectly balanced with a touch of cinnamon and brown sugar, this dessert is ideal for those seeking a delicious gluten-free treat that’s both comforting and elegant.
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 your 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 until evenly mixed. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan to create an even layer. Bake this crust for 8-10 minutes until golden and set. Remove and let it cool completely.
- Make the cheesecake filling: Beat the softened cream cheese with the granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract, eggs, sour cream, and gluten-free flour, mixing thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. Pour this filling over the cooled crust and carefully smooth the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is just slightly jiggly when you gently shake the pan. Then, let it 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, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes or until the apples are tender and nicely caramelized. Remove from heat and let this mixture cool.
- Assemble and chill: Once the cheesecake has cooled, spread the caramelized apples evenly over the top. Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours or preferably overnight to allow the bars to set completely.
- Serve: After chilling, slice the cheesecake into bars and enjoy a delightful gluten-free dessert that combines creamy cheesecake with sweet, tender apples.
Notes
- Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or a suitable gluten-free cookie crumb for the crust to ensure the recipe remains gluten-free.
- For best results, use room temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Peeling and thinly slicing the apples helps them caramelize evenly and makes the topping smooth.
- Adjust cinnamon and sugar quantities according to your taste preference for sweetness and spice.
- These bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, tightly covered, to maintain freshness.
