Sugar cookie crust, apple pie filling, cheesecake layer and a sugar cookie top make these Apple Pie Bars a favorite! All the favorite flavors of apple pie in an easy dessert bar.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Prepare an 8-inch by 8-inch square baking pan with non-stick spray. Line the pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang, and spray the pan with the parchment paper for easier removal.
In a medium bowl, using a pastry cutter, or fork cut the butter into the sugar cookie mix until well combined and crumbly. Remove 1 ½ cups of the mixture and set aside.
Pour the remaining mixture into the pan and firmly press it to the edges. Bake in the oven for 10 minutes.
While the crust is baking, mix the cinnamon into the apple pie filling. (If using the homemade apple pie filling recipe this isn’t needed). Set aside.
In a medium bowl, using a hand or stand mixer, mix the cream cheese, condensed milk, egg, and vanilla extract until most of the lumps are gone and the mixture is smooth.
Once the crust is done baking, spread the apple pie filling along the top and to the edges.
Pour the cheesecake mixture on top of the apples and spread to the edges. Sprinkle the reserved cookie mixture all over the top.
Bake for 30-40 minutes, until the top starts to turn golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow to cool at room temperature for an hour. Cover and refrigerate for a minimum of 3 hours, overnight if possible. Serve with or without a drizzle of caramel sauce. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
Remove from the oven and allow to cool at room temperature for an hour. Cover and refrigerate for a minimum of 3 hours, overnight if possible. Serve with or without a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Notes
How to StoreStore in an airtight container or tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.Homemade Apple Pie Filling OptionMakes the equivalent amount to 1 21-ounce can pie filling.Ingredients
2 cups peeled, diced or thinly sliced apple
½ tablespoon lemon juice
1 cup granulated sugar
6 teaspoons cornstarch
½ teaspoon cinnamon
Pinch of nutmeg
Pinch of salt
1 cup water
Instructions
In a small bowl, coat the apples with lemon juice. Set aside.
In a large saucepan, combine the sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and water; stir well. While continuously mixing, bring mixture to a boil and continue boiling for 2 minutes.
Add the apples and return to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover and simmer for 5-8 minutes; until apples are tender.
Remove from the stove and allow to cool for 30 minutes. Scoop into a container, seal, and refrigerate for a minimum of 3 hours before using in this recipe.