Pin it Buttery bars with creamy cheesecake filling, spiced cinnamon apples, and subtle soda fizz come together in these Cinnamon Apple Cheesecake Soda Bars for a unique and irresistible treat. Perfect for dessert lovers seeking something a little out of the ordinary.
I first made these bars on a chilly weekend when I wanted something cozy but unexpected for my family. The touch of soda gives the cheesecake layer a lightness that surprised everyone—they disappeared almost instantly!
Ingredients
- Crust: 1 1/2 cups (190 g) all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter (melted), 1/3 cup (65 g) granulated sugar, 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Cheesecake Layer: 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese (softened), 1/3 cup (65 g) granulated sugar, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/4 cup (60 ml) lemon-lime soda (such as Sprite or 7UP)
- Cinnamon Apple Layer: 2 medium apples (peeled, cored, and diced), 2 tablespoons (25 g) granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Topping: 1/2 cup (60 g) all-purpose flour, 1/3 cup (65 g) brown sugar (packed), 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter (softened), 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the pan:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch (20x20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- Make the crust:
- Combine flour, melted butter, sugar, and salt in a bowl. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes then remove from oven.
- Cheesecake layer:
- Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Mix in the egg and vanilla until combined. Gently mix in soda. Pour mixture evenly over warm crust.
- Apple layer:
- Toss diced apples with sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Spread evenly over cheesecake layer.
- Topping:
- Mix flour, brown sugar, butter, cinnamon, and salt until crumbly. Sprinkle evenly over apples.
- Bake and cool:
- Bake for 30 minutes, until topping is golden and center is set (a slight jiggle is fine). Cool completely in pan, then chill for at least 2 hours before slicing.
- Serve:
- Lift bars out with parchment, slice, and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Pin it These bars became an instant family favorite at our autumn get-togethers. Everyone loves the subtle soda flavor and the comforting bite of spiced apples.
Required Tools
You’ll need an 8x8-inch (20x20 cm) baking pan, mixing bowls, an electric mixer or whisk, a rubber spatula, parchment paper, and a knife for slicing.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains dairy (cream cheese, butter), eggs, and gluten (wheat flour). Always inspect soda and other ingredient labels for any dietary restrictions.
Nutritional Information
Each bar provides approximately 270 calories, 14 g total fat, 33 g carbohydrates, and 3 g protein per serving.
Pin it Simple to slice and serve, these bars make a delightful treat for any gathering. Enjoy them chilled or at room temperature for best taste and texture.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of apples work best?
Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape and balance the sweetness beautifully.
- → Can I make these bars ahead?
Yes, prepare and chill them a day in advance. The flavors meld and the bars slice more cleanly when cold.
- → Is there a substitute for lemon-lime soda?
Use club soda with a splash of lemon juice, or light ginger ale adds a different twist to the creamy filling.
- → How do I store the bars?
Store chilled in an airtight container for up to three days. Let them come to room temp before serving for best texture.
- → Can these be made gluten-free?
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend; check other ingredients to ensure gluten-free status.
- → What tools are necessary?
An 8x8-inch pan, mixing bowls, electric mixer, spatula, parchment paper, and knife make preparation seamless.