Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Introduction

These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars combine the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet, tender flavor of apples and luscious caramel. Perfect for fall gatherings or anytime you crave a decadent dessert that’s easy to share.

Ingredients

• 16 oz cream cheese
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 apples, sliced
• 1 cup caramel sauce
• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/3 cup butter, melted

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare the graham cracker crust by combining the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a baking pan to create an even layer.
2. Step 2: In a mixing bowl, beat together cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy with no lumps.
3. Step 3: Pour half of the cream cheese mixture over the prepared crust and spread it evenly.
4. Step 4: Arrange the sliced apples evenly over the cream cheese layer, then drizzle the caramel sauce over the apples.
5. Step 5: Pour the remaining cream cheese mixture over the apples and caramel, spreading gently to cover the entire pan.
6. Step 6: Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) until the cheesecake is set and the top turns lightly golden, about 40-45 minutes.
7. Step 7: Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating for several hours or overnight to let them fully set.
8. Step 8: Slice the chilled bars into squares and optionally drizzle with additional caramel sauce before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance to the sweetness of the caramel and cream cheese.
• For extra texture, sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts over the apples before adding the final cream cheese layer.
• Substitute caramel sauce with homemade caramel for a richer flavor.

Storage

Store the cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To enjoy, you can eat them chilled or let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes. Avoid freezing to maintain the best texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use canned caramel sauce for this recipe?

Yes, store-bought caramel sauce works well and saves time. Just make sure it’s of good quality for the best flavor.

How do I prevent the cheesecake from cracking?

Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing and avoid over-baking. Baking at a moderate temperature and allowing the bars to cool gradually helps prevent cracks.

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 144 reviews

• Author: Lily
• Total Time: 4 hours 0 minutes
• Yield: 12 bars 1x

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Description

These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars combine a buttery graham cracker crust with a smooth, creamy cheesecake filling layered with tender apple slices and drizzled with rich caramel sauce. Perfectly baked to a golden finish, these bars offer a delightful blend of tart apples, sweet caramel, and velvety cheesecake in every bite. Ideal for dessert lovers looking for a comforting autumn-inspired treat.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Crust

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/3 cup butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Topping

• 2 apples, thinly sliced
• 1 cup caramel sauce, plus extra for drizzling

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Instructions

1. Prepare the crust: In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a baking pan to form the crust layer.
2. Make the cheesecake filling: In a mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy, without lumps.
3. Add the first layer of filling: Pour half of the cheesecake mixture over the prepared graham cracker crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula to create a uniform base.
4. Layer the apples and caramel: Arrange the thinly sliced apples evenly over the first layer of cheesecake filling. Drizzle the caramel sauce over the apples to add sweetness and moisture.
5. Top with remaining filling: Carefully pour the remaining cheesecake mixture over the apples and caramel, spreading it gently to cover the filling without disturbing the layers beneath.
6. Bake the bars: Place the baking pan in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) and bake for approximately 40 to 45 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set and the top is lightly golden. Avoid overbaking to keep the bars creamy.
7. Cool and chill: Remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool at room temperature. Then transfer to the refrigerator to chill for at least 3 hours, or until fully set and firm.
8. Serve: Once chilled, slice the bars into squares. For an extra touch of decadence, drizzle additional caramel sauce over the top just before serving.

Notes

• You can use tart apples such as Granny Smith for a balanced sweet and tangy flavor.
• Ensure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
• Press the crust firmly to prevent it from crumbling when cutting.
• Store chilled cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: caramel apple cheesecake bars, caramel apple dessert, cheesecake bars recipe, apple dessert bars, easy cheesecake bars, fall desserts