Apple Cheesecake Danish Bars offer a tantalizing fusion of flavors, combining the richness of cheesecake with the sweetness of apples, all nestled atop a buttery pastry base. In this article, we delve into the delightful world of Apple Cheesecake Danish Bars, exploring their ingredients, preparation methods, and serving suggestions.

Ingredients:

For the Pastry:

For the Cheesecake Layer:

For the Apple Filling:

For the Streusel Topping:

Instructions:

Prepare the Pastry:

1. In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cubed unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and salt.
2. Use a pastry cutter or two knives to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add ice water, a little at a time, and mix until the dough comes together.
4. Shape the dough into a rectangle, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Cheesecake Layer:

1. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Beat until the mixture is creamy and well combined. Set aside.

Prepare the Apple Filling:

1. In a saucepan, combine diced apples, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and water.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft and the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool.

Assemble the Bars:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the chilled pastry dough on a floured surface into a rectangle slightly larger than the baking pan.
3. Place the rolled-out pastry into the prepared pan, pressing it down evenly.
4. Spread the cheesecake layer over the pastry.
5. Spoon the cooled apple filling over the cheesecake layer.
6. In a separate bowl, prepare the streusel topping by combining all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and cubed unsalted butter. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to create a crumbly mixture.
7. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the apple layer.

Baking and Serving:

1. Bake the bars in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.
2. Allow the bars to cool in the pan, then refrigerate until fully chilled.
3. Once chilled, use the parchment paper to lift the bars from the pan. Cut them into squares or bars.
4. Serve and enjoy your Apple Cheesecake Danish Bars! They’re delicious on their own or with a dollop of whipped cream.