Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat that brings together sweet apples, creamy cheesecake, and a rich caramel drizzle. These bars are perfect for gatherings or simply as a cozy dessert at home. With every bite, you’ll enjoy a soft and sweet flavor that’s hard to resist.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This recipe is a crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to make, even for beginners. The combination of creamy cheesecake and tart apples makes for a wonderful flavor contrast. Plus, it’s perfect for any time of the year, whether for a holiday gathering or a simple family dinner. The caramel sauce adds a touch of sweetness that everyone loves.
How to Make Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
Making these bars is a simple process. You start with a delicious graham cracker crust, then mix up a creamy cheesecake filling. Adding diced apples and drizzling caramel on top makes it extra special. The best part? You don’t need fancy tools or experience. Just follow the steps and enjoy the delicious results.
What You Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make these yummy bars:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups diced apples (preferably tart apples like Granny Smith)
- 1 cup caramel sauce
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Step-by-Step
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla and mix until combined.
- Fold in the diced apples and cinnamon into the cream cheese mixture.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust in the baking dish and spread evenly.
- Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the cheesecake layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Allow to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing into bars.
- Serve chilled, drizzled with additional caramel sauce if desired.
How to Serve Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
These bars are great on their own, but you can also serve them with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They make a sweet ending to a fall dinner or a fun treat at parties. You could also pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack.
How to Store Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
To keep leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay good for about 4-5 days. If you want to make these ahead of time, you can freeze the bars. Just wrap them tightly and store them in the freezer for up to a month. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge and then serve cold.
Recipe Tips
- Make sure your cream cheese is softened for easy mixing.
- Use tart apples for a nice contrast to the sweet cheesecake.
- Let the bars cool completely before refrigerating to set properly.
- Drizzle extra caramel on each piece before serving for a sweet touch.
- Cut into small bars for easier serving and sharing.
Variations & Swaps
- Swap the apples for pears for a different flavor.
- Use graham crackers or cookie crumbs for the crust.
- Try adding nuts like pecans or walnuts for a crunchy topping.
- Mix in spices like nutmeg for extra warmth and flavor.
FAQs
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, you can make them a day before and store them in the fridge. They’ll taste great the next day!
Can I freeze the cheesecake bars?
Absolutely! Wrap them well and store in the freezer for up to a month. Thaw before serving.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
You can use mascarpone cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese if needed.
How should I serve these bars?
They’re delicious on their own or topped with whipped cream or ice cream.
What if I overbake the bars?
Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking. Overbaking can cause them to become dry, so aim for a slightly jiggly center.
Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients
For the crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup sugar
For the cheesecake filling
- 4 packages (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups diced apples (preferably tart apples like Granny Smith)
- 1 cup caramel sauce
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla and mix until combined.
- Fold in the diced apples and cinnamon into the cream cheese mixture.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust in the baking dish and spread evenly.
- Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the cheesecake layer.
Baking and Cooling
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Allow to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing into bars.
