Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a 9×9-inch baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, combine the flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and salt for the crust. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or two knives until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the cold water and mix until a dough forms. Press this dough into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
- In another bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, 1/3 cup granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth. Spread this cheesecake mixture evenly over the crust in the baking pan.
- In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced apples, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Allow the apples to cool slightly, then spread them over the cheesecake layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the cheesecake is set.
- If desired, prepare the glaze by mixing the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the bars after they have cooled slightly.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack, then refrigerate for a few hours to chill and set the cheesecake layer.
- Once fully chilled, cut the bars into squares and serve. Enjoy your Apple Cheesecake Danish Bars!
These bars are a wonderful combination of sweet, creamy, and fruity flavors, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.