Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe

 

These caramel apple cheesecake bars are the ultimate dessert mashup, combining creamy cheesecake, cinnamon-spiced apples, and a buttery streusel topping. Drizzled with caramel, each bite is sweet, tart, and utterly irresistible—a dessert perfect for fall or anytime you’re craving a cozy treat.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients Overview

• Graham Crackers: Used to make the crust; the base of these bars is buttery and crunchy.
• Cream Cheese: Forms the luscious cheesecake layer—use full-fat for the creamiest result.
• Apples: Choose tart varieties like Granny Smith to balance the sweetness.
• Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg bring warm flavors to the apple layer.
• Caramel Sauce: Adds sweetness and a decadent finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Combine 2 cups of crushed graham crackers, ½ cup of melted butter, and 2 tablespoons of sugar in a bowl.
3. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan to form the crust. Bake for 10 minutes and let cool.

2. Make the Cheesecake Layer

1. In a mixing bowl, beat 16 ounces of cream cheese, ½ cup of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Add 2 eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust and spread evenly.

3. Prepare the Apple Topping

1. Peel and dice 3 cups of apples. Toss with 2 tablespoons of sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg.
2. Distribute the apple mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer.

4. Add the Streusel Topping

1. Combine 1 cup of flour, 1 cup of brown sugar, and ½ cup of cold butter in a bowl. Use a fork or your fingers to mix until crumbly.
2. Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the apples.

5. Bake

1. Bake the bars for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheesecake layer is set.
2. Allow to cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing.

6. Drizzle with Caramel

1. Before serving, drizzle the bars with store-bought or homemade caramel sauce for a finishing touch.

Recipe Tips

• Chill Time: Let the bars cool and chill fully before cutting to ensure clean slices.
• Apple Varieties: Mix tart and sweet apples for a balanced flavor.
• Caramel Sauce: Warm it slightly before drizzling for easier application.

What to Serve With This Recipe

• Warm Drinks: Pair with a hot cup of coffee or spiced cider.
• Ice Cream: Vanilla ice cream complements the caramel and apple flavors.
• Whipped Cream: Add a dollop for an extra creamy touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, these bars can be made a day in advance. Store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

What kind of apples work best?
Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix of both are great options.

Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, freeze the cooled, undrizzled bars for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and drizzle with caramel before serving.

Ingredients

• Crust
  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ½ cup melted butter
  • 2 tbsp sugar
• Cheesecake Layer
  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Apple Layer
  • 3 cups apples, peeled and diced
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • ¼ tsp nutmeg
• Streusel Topping
  • 1 cup flour
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • ½ cup cold butter
• Caramel Sauce for drizzling

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven and prepare the crust. Bake and cool.
2. Mix and layer the cheesecake ingredients over the crust.
3. Top with spiced apples and streusel.
4. Bake until golden and set.
5. Chill, slice, and drizzle with caramel before serving.

These caramel apple cheesecake bars are a show-stopping dessert that combines the best of cheesecake and apple pie into one incredible treat!