Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Introduction

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars combine the warm flavors of cinnamon apples and rich cheesecake on a crisp graham cracker crust. These bars are perfect for a cozy dessert that’s easy to make and delightful to share.

Ingredients

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/3 cup melted butter
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 16 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 medium apples (peeled and diced small)
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 cup caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup sugar in a bowl until combined. Press this mixture firmly into a baking dish lined with parchment paper. Bake for 8 minutes and then remove from the oven.
2. Step 2: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup granulated sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Step 3: Gently fold the diced apples, cinnamon, and 1/4 cup caramel sauce into the cream cheese mixture. Pour this mixture evenly over the pre-baked crust.
4. Step 4: Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly.
5. Step 5: Allow the bars to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up.
6. Step 6: Before serving, drizzle with additional caramel sauce. Cut into 12 bars and enjoy.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crunch, sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on top before the final bake.
• Use tart apples such as Granny Smith for a nice balance to the sweetness of the caramel.
• Swap caramel sauce for a homemade caramel glaze if you prefer a fresher taste.

Storage

Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To enjoy, bring them to room temperature or warm slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. These bars can also be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of crust?

Yes, a cookie crust like shortbread or digestive biscuits can be substituted for the graham cracker crust for a different flavor and texture.

How do I know when the cheesecake bars are done baking?

The edges should be set and slightly golden, while the center may look a bit jiggly but not liquid. The bars will firm up as they chill in the refrigerator.

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 115 reviews

These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat combining a buttery graham cracker crust with a creamy, spiced apple cheesecake filling, topped with luscious caramel drizzle. Perfect for fall or any dessert craving, they offer a delicious blend of tart apples, warm cinnamon, and rich caramel in every bite.

• Author: Ruby
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 38 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 53 minutes
• Yield: 12 bars 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Crust

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/3 cup melted butter
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

Cheesecake Filling

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 medium apples, peeled and diced small
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 cup caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling)

Instructions

1. Prepare crust: In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a baking dish lined with parchment paper to create the crust layer. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8 minutes to set the crust.
2. Make cheesecake filling: While the crust bakes, beat the softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup granulated sugar in a bowl until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract until evenly incorporated.
3. Add apples and flavorings: Gently fold the diced apples, cinnamon, and 1/4 cup caramel sauce into the cream cheese mixture. Make sure the apples are evenly distributed throughout the filling.
4. Assemble bars: Pour the cheesecake apple mixture over the pre-baked graham cracker crust, spreading it out evenly to cover the entire surface.
5. Bake cheesecake: Place the assembled bars in the oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly.
6. Cool and chill: Remove the cheesecake bars from the oven and allow them to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the filling firm up completely.
7. Serve: Before serving, drizzle additional caramel sauce over the top of the bars. Cut into 12 squares and enjoy.

Notes

• Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smoother filling.
• Peeling and dicing apples finely helps ensure even cooking throughout the bars.
• Use parchment paper to line the baking dish for easy removal and cleanup.
• You can use store-bought or homemade caramel sauce for convenience.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Keywords: Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars, Apple Dessert, Cheesecake Bars, Fall Dessert, Cream Cheese Dessert