Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Introduction

These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars combine creamy cheesecake, tender apples, and rich caramel for a delightful dessert. Perfect for fall gatherings or any time you crave a sweet treat with a twist.

Two square dessert bars are stacked on top of each other, each showing four layers: at the bottom, a crumbly, light brown crust; above that, a thick, creamy white cheesecake layer; then a smooth, light yellow caramel-like layer; and on top, a crumbly, golden-brown streusel. Thick, shiny caramel sauce drips down the sides, adding a sticky texture and rich amber color. They sit on a white marbled surface with a soft-focus background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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 graham cracker crumbs with melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a baking pan.
  2. Step 2: In a mixing bowl, beat together cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  3. Step 3: Pour half of the cream cheese mixture over the graham cracker crust and spread it evenly.
  4. Step 4: Arrange the sliced apples evenly on top of the cream cheese layer, then drizzle caramel sauce over the apples.
  5. Step 5: Pour the remaining cream cheese mixture over the apples and caramel, spreading it to cover the entire pan.
  6. Step 6: Bake in a preheated oven until the cheesecake is set and the top is lightly golden.
  7. Step 7: Allow the bars to cool completely before chilling them in the refrigerator for a few hours to firm up.
  8. Step 8: Slice the chilled bars into squares and drizzle with additional caramel sauce before serving.

Tips & Variations

  • Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance to the sweet caramel and creamy cheesecake.
  • For an extra crunch, sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts over the apple layer before adding the top cheesecake mixture.
  • Make your own caramel sauce for a homemade touch, or choose a high-quality store-bought version for convenience.

Storage

Store the cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat slightly in the microwave if you prefer a warm dessert, or enjoy them chilled for the best texture.

How to Serve

Two square cheesecake bars are stacked on top of each other on a white marbled surface. Each bar has four layers: the bottom is a thick, crumbly brown crust; above it is a thick, smooth white cream cheese layer; followed by a medium-thick light golden caramel or apple filling; and the top layer is a crumbly streusel with a mix of light beige and golden colors. Glossy caramel sauce drips generously over the top and down the sides of both bars, adding shine and richness to the texture. The background is softly blurred, keeping the focus on the bars. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen apples for this recipe?

Fresh apples are best to maintain texture, but if using frozen apples, be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the bars.

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

The bars are set when the edges are firm and the center slightly jiggles but is not liquid. The top should be lightly golden but not browned.

Print
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Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe


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

Description

Delight in these luscious Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars, featuring a buttery graham cracker crust topped with creamy cheesecake layers, tender apple slices, and rich caramel sauce. Perfectly baked to a golden finish, these bars combine the warm flavors of fall with a smooth, indulgent texture that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust

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

For the Cheesecake Filling

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

Toppings

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

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a baking pan to form an even crust layer.
  2. Make the Cheesecake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy with no lumps remaining.
  3. Layer First Cheesecake Portion: Pour half of the cream cheese batter over the prepared graham cracker crust and spread it evenly to cover the base.
  4. Add Apples and Caramel: Arrange the thinly sliced apples evenly over the cheesecake layer. Drizzle the 1 cup of caramel sauce generously on top of the apple slices.
  5. Top with Remaining Cheesecake Batter: Pour the remaining cream cheese mixture over the apples and caramel, spreading it out carefully to cover the entire surface.
  6. Bake the Bars: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 40-45 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set and the top is lightly golden brown. Avoid overbaking to keep the texture creamy.
  7. Cool and Chill: Remove the cheesecake bars from the oven and allow them to cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate the bars for at least 3-4 hours or until fully chilled and set.
  8. Serve: Once chilled, slice the cheesecake into bars or squares. Drizzle with extra caramel sauce before serving for an added touch of sweetness.

Notes

  • For best results, use tart apples such as Granny Smith to balance the sweetness of the caramel.
  • Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth batter.
  • Do not overbake to prevent cracking and maintain a creamy texture.
  • Chilling time is important to help the bars set properly for clean slices.
  • Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: Caramel apple, cheesecake, dessert bars, graham cracker crust, fall dessert, baked cheesecake bars

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