Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Introduction

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars combine the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet and spicy flavors of autumn apples and caramel. These bars are easy to make and perfect for a cozy dessert or sharing at gatherings.

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 together until combined. Press this mixture firmly into a baking dish lined with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: Bake the crust for 8 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
3. Step 3: In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Step 4: Fold in the diced apples, cinnamon, and 1/4 cup caramel sauce gently into the cream cheese mixture.
5. Step 5: Pour this apple cheesecake mixture evenly over the pre-baked crust and spread it out smoothly.
6. Step 6: Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly.
7. Step 7: Allow the bars to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up.
8. Step 8: Before serving, drizzle with extra caramel sauce and cut into 12 bars.

Tips & Variations

• Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance with the sweet caramel.
• For a nutty crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking.
• Swap caramel sauce with butterscotch for a different flavor profile.
• Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened for the smoothest filling texture.

Storage

Store the cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the bars for up to 1 month and thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. Reheat briefly if desired, but they are best enjoyed chilled.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use pre-made caramel sauce?

Yes, store-bought caramel sauce works perfectly and saves time.

What if I don’t have parchment paper?

You can grease the baking dish well, but parchment paper makes removing the bars easier and helps prevent sticking.

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 570 reviews

Deliciously rich caramel apple cheesecake bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a creamy, spiced apple-infused cheesecake layer and a drizzle of luscious caramel sauce. Perfect for a fall dessert or anytime you crave a sweet and tangy treat.

• Author: Rico
• 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 the crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar in a bowl until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a baking dish lined with parchment paper to form an even crust.
2. Bake the crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the crust for 8 minutes to set it, then remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly.
3. Make the cheesecake filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time along with the vanilla extract, mixing well after each addition.
4. Add apples and spices: Gently fold in the diced apples, cinnamon, and 1/4 cup caramel sauce into the cheesecake batter until evenly distributed.
5. Assemble and bake: Pour the cheesecake mixture over the baked crust, spreading it evenly. Bake again for 25–30 minutes or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly.
6. Cool and chill: Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours to allow them to firm up.
7. Serve: Before serving, drizzle additional caramel sauce over the bars. Cut into 12 equal squares and enjoy.

Notes

• Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance of sweetness and acidity.
• Make sure cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
• Line the baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal of the bars.
• Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Optional: add chopped nuts like pecans on top for extra crunch.

Keywords: caramel apple cheesecake bars, caramel cheesecake bars, apple dessert bars, graham cracker crust cheesecake, fall dessert, easy cheesecake bars