Apple and Blueberry Cheesecake Bars Description
These Apple and Blueberry Cheesecake Bars combine the creamy richness of cheesecake with the tart freshness of apples and blueberries. Perfect for dessert or afternoon tea, these bars are baked to golden perfection and can be served warm or chilled.
Ingredients
For the crust:
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1 cup (120g) crushed graham crackers or digestive biscuits
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3 tbsp granulated sugar
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5 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake filling:
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16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
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3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
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3 large eggs
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1/2 cup (120g) sour cream or Greek yogurt
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1 tsp pure vanilla extract
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1 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, helps with structure)
For the topping:
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1 medium red apple, thinly sliced
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1/2 cup (75g) fresh blueberries
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1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for glaze)
Instructions
1. Prepare the crust
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper.
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Mix the crushed biscuits, sugar, and melted butter until combined.
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Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan.
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Bake for 8–10 minutes, then let it cool slightly.
2. Make the cheesecake filling
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In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
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Add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition.
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Mix in sour cream, vanilla, and flour (if using).
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Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top.
3. Arrange the fruit topping
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Neatly arrange the apple slices on top in a fan pattern.
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Scatter blueberries evenly between apple slices.
4. Bake
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Bake for 35–45 minutes, or until the center is just set (slightly wobbly).
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Let cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
5. Serve
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Drizzle with honey or glaze (optional).
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Slice into bars and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes & Tips
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Apples: Choose firm apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala — they hold shape during baking.
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Blueberries: Fresh or frozen both work (no need to thaw frozen ones).
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Crust alternative: You can use shortbread cookies or oats instead of graham crackers.
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Texture tip: Avoid overmixing the batter to prevent cracks.
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Serving idea: Dust with powdered sugar or serve with a dollop of whipped cream.
Servings
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Makes 9 large bars or 16 smaller squares.
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 12 servings)
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Calories: ~260 kcal
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Fat: 17g
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Carbohydrates: 23g
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Protein: 5g
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Sugar: 16g
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Fiber: 1g
(Values are approximate.)
Health Benefits
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Apples add fiber and antioxidants.
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Blueberries provide vitamin C and anthocyanins, supporting brain and heart health.
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Greek yogurt or sour cream adds protein and probiotics.
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Moderation-friendly dessert—creamy yet lighter than traditional cheesecakes.
Q&A
Q1: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
✅ Yes, use gluten-free graham crackers or oat flour for the crust.
Q2: Can I use other fruits?
✅ Absolutely! Try raspberries, strawberries, or peaches for variety.
Q3: How long will it last?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days. You can also freeze for up to 2 months.
Q4: How can I prevent cracks on top?
Bake at a moderate temperature and avoid overbaking. Let it cool gradually before refrigerating.