Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

The irresistible combination of creamy cheesecake, decadent caramel, and tart apples makes this dessert a standout. Incorporating these flavors into a simple, easy-to-make bar transforms the complex taste of a classic cheesecake into a convenient treat. Dive into the delicious world of caramel apple cheesecake bars now!

I remember my first time indulging in this sweet delight during a family gathering at my grandmother’s house. She effortlessly amazed us with her baking skills, and these bars quickly became a family tradition. As I took that first bite, the velvety caramel intertwined with the refreshing apple slices created a taste explosion that danced on my taste buds. Grandma shared her secret recipe, and since then, it has become a staple in my kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy the classic taste of cheesecake with a twist. The fusion of caramel and apples provides a unique flavor profile that can’t be beaten. Not only is it delicious, but it’s simple to prepare and requires minimal clean-up. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, you’ll find this recipe delightful and rewarding. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be served at any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive celebration.

Ingredients Notes

For the best results, opt for Granny Smith apples as they offer the perfect balance of tartness and texture. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, try Honeycrisp or Fuji apples. For the crust, graham crackers are traditional, but you can experiment with digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers for different textures. When it comes to caramel, use high-quality store-bought sauce or make your own for extra richness.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Begin by preparing the crust, combining crushed graham crackers with melted butter and sugar. Press firmly into a lined baking dish to form a solid base.

Step 2

In a mixing bowl, blend cream cheese with sugar and vanilla extract until smooth, ensuring there are no lumps. Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition until just combined.

Step 3

Pour the cream cheese mixture over the prepared crust, spreading evenly with a spatula. Layer thinly sliced apples on top, ensuring they are evenly distributed.

Step 4

Drizzle the caramel sauce generously over the apple layer, reserving a small amount to use after baking for garnish.

Step 5

Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 30–35 minutes, or until set. Allow the bars to cool at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours before serving.

Storage Options

To maintain freshness, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and freeze for up to two months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge or warm briefly in the microwave.

Variations & Substitutions

To accommodate specific dietary needs, consider using gluten-free graham crackers for a gluten-free version. You can also substitute regular cream cheese with a vegan alternative. For an extra burst of flavor, add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cheesecake layer. To elevate the experience, try using salted caramel for a delightful contrast.

Serving Suggestions

These bars are perfect for brunch, dessert, or as a sweet snack. Serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to complement the rich flavors. They are also a hit during autumn gatherings or holiday parties. Pair with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk for a satisfying treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned apple pie filling instead of fresh apples? Yes, using canned apple pie filling is a time-saving option and can add a bit of extra sweetness to the bars. Just be sure to adjust the amount of sugar in the cheesecake mixture to balance the flavors.

How can I make my caramel from scratch? Making caramel from scratch is straightforward. Combine 1 cup of sugar with 1/4 cup of water in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then increase the heat and stop stirring. Let the mixture boil until it turns a deep amber color, then remove from heat and stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream and a pinch of salt.

Is it possible to make these bars ahead of time? Absolutely! These bars can be made a day or two in advance. Prepare the recipe as instructed, cover, and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve. This makes it a convenient option for busy event preparation.

Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

These easy caramel apple cheesecake bars combine the irresistible flavors of caramel, apple, and creamy cheesecake topped with a buttery streusel crumble. The perfect dessert for fall!

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Prep Time: 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes minutes

Total Time: 1 hour hour

Servings: 12

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

 

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Main Ingredients

• ▢ 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs for the crust
• ▢ 0.5 cup unsalted butter melted
• ▢ 2 tablespoons sugar
• ▢ 16 oz cream cheese softened
• ▢ 0.5 cup sour cream
• ▢ 0.5 cup sugar for the filling
• ▢ 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ▢ 2 large eggs
• ▢ 2 cups diced apples peeled and cored
• ▢ 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ▢ 0.25 cup caramel sauce plus extra for drizzling
• ▢ 0.5 cup all-purpose flour for the streusel
• ▢ 0.5 cup brown sugar packed
• ▢ 0.25 cup unsalted butter cold, cut into cubes
• ▢ 0.25 cup old-fashioned oats

Instructions

Preparation Steps

• Preheat oven to 350°F and line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
• In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press mixture into prepared pan and bake for 8-10 minutes.
• In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, sour cream, and sugar until smooth. Add in vanilla extract and eggs, one at a time, mixing until combined.
• Spread diced apples evenly over the crust and sprinkle with ground cinnamon. Drizzle caramel sauce over apples.
• Pour cheesecake mixture over apple layer and spread evenly.
• For the streusel topping, combine flour, brown sugar, and oats in a small bowl. Cut in butter cubes using a pastry cutter or fork until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Sprinkle streusel evenly on top of cheesecake layer.
• Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until cheesecake is set and streusel is golden brown.
• Allow to cool completely before drizzling additional caramel sauce over the top and cutting into bars.

Notes

Chill the bars in the refrigerator for a firmer texture. Experiment with different types of apples for varied flavor.