This no-bake Apple Cream Cheese Dessert is everything you want in a fall treat — cool, creamy layers, warm cinnamon graham crust, and tender apple pie filling.
It’s the kind of crowd-pleaser that disappears fast at gatherings, and you don’t even need to turn on the oven!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
No oven required – Easy and ideal for warm weather or busy days.
Perfect texture combo – Buttery graham crust + creamy cheesecake layer + juicy apples.
Fall flavors – Apple, cinnamon, and pecan in one easy-to-serve bar.
Make-ahead friendly – Chill overnight for best results.
Versatile dessert – Works for holidays, potlucks, or weeknight cravings.
Ingredient Highlights
Graham cracker crust – Flavored with brown sugar and cinnamon for a warm, buttery base.
Cream cheese layer – Sweetened and whipped with Cool Whip until ultra-light and creamy.
Apple pie filling – Tender, spiced apples bring that nostalgic comfort.
Chopped pecans – Optional, but add great crunch and contrast.
Tips Before You Start
Use softened cream cheese to avoid lumps.
Press the crust firmly to prevent crumbling.
Chill for at least 4 hours or overnight for best texture.
If you want cleaner slices, pop it in the freezer for 20 minutes before cutting.
How to Make Apple Cream Cheese Dream Bars
Step 1: Make the Crust
Mix graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter.
Press into the bottom of a 9×13 baking dish. Freeze while preparing the filling.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Layer
Beat softened cream cheese with granulated sugar and vanilla until smooth.
Fold in half the Cool Whip. Spread over chilled crust.
Step 3: Add Apple Layer
Spoon apple pie filling evenly over the cream cheese layer.
Spread gently to the edges.
Step 4: Top and Chill
Spread remaining Cool Whip on top.
Cover and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with chopped pecans before serving, if using.
Slice into bars and serve cold.
What to Serve It With
A drizzle of caramel sauce
Hot apple cider or cinnamon tea
Vanilla ice cream on the side
As a chilled ending to a hearty fall dinner
Variations & Swaps
Use spiced cookie crumbs like gingersnaps instead of graham crackers.
Try cherry or peach pie filling for a seasonal twist.
Swap pecans for walnuts, or skip nuts entirely for a smoother texture.
Add a dash of nutmeg to the crust for more spice.
Storage & Make-Ahead
Refrigerator: Store covered up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze (without pecans) up to 1 month. Thaw in fridge.
Best served chilled – keep cold until ready to serve.
FAQs
Can I use homemade apple pie filling?
Yes! Just make sure it’s fully cooled before spreading.
Is there a substitute for Cool Whip?
You can use stabilized whipped cream instead.
Can I make this in a round pan?
Yes, but slicing may be trickier. A square or rectangle works best.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, but full-fat gives a creamier texture.
How can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
Is this a cheesecake?
It’s more like a no-bake layered dessert bar with cheesecake flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Cream Cheese Dessert has all the cozy vibes of fall in an easy, no-bake format.
It’s creamy, crunchy, sweet, and totally satisfying.
Whether for holidays or just a Tuesday night, it’s sure to hit the spot.
