Irresistible Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe for Fall Treats

Sweet memories of autumn dance through my favorite caramel apple cheesecake bars, blending creamy richness with seasonal charm.

Crisp apples and smooth cream cheese create a magical combination that whispers comfort.

Layers of buttery crust, tangy filling, and golden caramel promise an irresistible dessert experience.

Warm spices hint at cozy kitchen moments and nostalgic gatherings.

Each bite promises a delightful balance between smooth cheesecake and soft fruit.

Comfort arrives in squares packed with incredible flavor and texture.

Fall couldn’t taste more delicious than with these incredible bars waiting to surprise you.

What’s Special About Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

• Each bite reveals a symphony of textures from crispy graham cracker crust to creamy cheesecake, tender spiced apples, and crunchy streusel topping.
• Swap pecans for almonds or add extra spices to make this dessert uniquely yours, perfect for baking enthusiasts who love personalization.
• Impressive enough for special gatherings yet simple to prepare, these bars guarantee smiles from kids and adults alike with their irresistible combination of flavors.
• Prepare the bars in advance and refrigerate, making them ideal for stress-free entertaining or satisfying unexpected sweet cravings.

Ingredients Needed for Apple Cheesecake Bars

• Graham Cracker Crumbs: Provides the classic sweet and crunchy foundation for the bars.
• Butter: Helps bind the crust together and adds richness.
• Sugar: Enhances the sweetness of the crust.
• Cinnamon: Adds warm, aromatic flavor to the base.

• Cream Cheese: Creates the smooth, creamy base of the dessert.
• Sugar: Balances and sweetens the cream cheese.
• Eggs: Helps set and bind the cheesecake layer.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and classic flavor to the cheesecake.

• Apples: Brings fresh, tart fruit element to the dessert.
• Lemon Juice: Prevents apples from browning and adds brightness.
• Brown Sugar, Cinnamon, Nutmeg: Provides warm, spiced flavor to the apples.
• Flour: Helps thicken and stabilize the streusel topping.
• Cold Butter: Creates crumbly texture in the streusel.
• Pecans: Adds crunch and nutty flavor to the topping.

• Sugar, Water: Primary ingredients for creating caramel.
• Heavy Cream: Adds richness and smoothness to the caramel.
• Butter: Enhances flavor and creates silky texture.
• Salt: Balances and intensifies the caramel's sweetness.

Simple Steps to Make Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Prepare Baking Foundation

Preheat the oven to 350°F.

Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring complete coverage for easy removal later.

Step 2: Create Crumbly Crust

• Graham cracker crumbs
• Melted butter
• Sugar
• Cinnamon

Press the mixture firmly into the pan’s bottom, creating an even layer.

Step 3: Bake Crust Base

Bake the crust for 10 minutes until lightly golden.

Remove and let cool completely while preparing subsequent layers.

Step 4: Whip Creamy Cheesecake Filling

Beat cream cheese and sugar until completely smooth and no lumps remain.

Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.

Incorporate vanilla extract, blending until fully integrated.

Step 5: Layer Cheesecake Foundation

Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust.

Spread evenly using a spatula to ensure uniform coverage.

Step 6: Prepare Spiced Apple Topping

• Lemon juice
• Brown sugar
• Cinnamon
• Nutmeg

Distribute the apple mixture evenly across the cheesecake layer.

Step 7: Develop Crunchy Streusel Topping

Mix flour and brown sugar in a bowl.

Cut cold butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Optional: Fold in chopped pecans for extra texture.

Step 8: Add Streusel Layer

Sprinkle the streusel mixture generously over the apple layer, ensuring complete coverage.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Place the pan in the preheated oven.

Bake for 45-50 minutes until the streusel turns golden brown and the cheesecake sets.

Step 10: Cool and Chill

Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature.

Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to help the layers firm up.

Step 11: Create Luxurious Caramel Sauce

In a saucepan, combine sugar and water.

Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.

Increase to medium-high heat and cook without stirring until the mixture turns amber.

Step 12: Finish Caramel Sauce

Remove from heat.

Carefully whisk in cream, which will bubble vigorously.

Stir in butter and salt until smooth and glossy.

Step 13: Serve and Indulge

Cut the chilled bars into squares.

Drizzle warm caramel sauce over each bar just before serving for a decadent finish.

Pro Tips for Rich and Creamy Cheesecake Bars

• Choose firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp that hold their shape during baking and provide a nice contrast to the sweet cheesecake base.
• Toast graham cracker crumbs in the oven for 5 minutes before mixing with butter to enhance crispness and prevent a mushy bottom layer.
• Watch caramel sauce carefully while cooking, using a candy thermometer if possible to avoid burning and achieve perfect golden color.
• Refrigerate bars for at least 4 hours or overnight to ensure clean, neat cuts and help flavors meld together beautifully.
• Let cream cheese, eggs, and butter sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before mixing to create smoother, more uniform cheesecake texture.

Store and Reheat Caramel Apple Bars Like a Pro

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking and maintain texture.
• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Let bars sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes. Warm briefly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften, but avoid overheating to prevent texture changes.
• Store leftover caramel sauce separately in a sealed jar in the refrigerator. Gently reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before drizzling over bars.

Delicious Sides to Enjoy with Cheesecake Bars

• Pair with Rich Dessert Wine: Choose a late-harvest Riesling or Moscato d'Asti to complement the sweet caramel and apple flavors, cutting through the creamy cheesecake richness.
• Elevate with Warm Spiced Beverage: Serve alongside a chai tea latte or cinnamon-infused hot apple cider to enhance the warm spice notes in the streusel and apple layers.
• Match with Nutty Coffee Blend: Select a smooth hazelnut or pecan-flavored coffee that mirrors the caramel and nut undertones, creating a harmonious flavor connection.
• Balance with Creamy Accompaniment: Add a dollop of fresh whipped cream or vanilla bean ice cream to provide a cool, light contrast to the dense cheesecake and sweet caramel sauce.

Great Variations for Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

• Gluten-Free Delight: Replace graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs or almond flour. Use gluten-free flour in the streusel topping for a celiac-friendly version.
• Vegan Transformation: Swap cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese. Use flax eggs instead of regular eggs. Substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine.
• Low-Sugar Option: Replace sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia. Use tart apples to reduce overall sweetness. Skip caramel drizzle or use a sugar-free caramel alternative.
• Nut-Free Alternative: Omit pecans from streusel. Replace with rolled oats or sunflower seeds for added crunch and texture. Ensure all ingredients are nut-free for allergy-sensitive individuals.

FAQs

• Can I use a different type of crust for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute graham cracker crumbs with crushed vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits for a different flavor profile.

• How do I know when the cheesecake bars are fully baked?

The streusel should be golden brown, and the cheesecake layer should look set but still have a slight jiggle in the center when gently shaken.

• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free graham crackers or alternative cookie crumbs for the crust, and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.

• Is it necessary to refrigerate the bars before serving?

Yes, refrigerating for at least 2 hours helps the cheesecake set properly and makes cutting and serving much easier.

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe

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4.5 from 22 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Indulgent Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars blend creamy cheesecake with classic fall flavors, creating a dessert that promises pure comfort. Crisp graham cracker crust, silky cream cheese filling, and caramel-kissed apple topping make these bars a delightful treat you’ll savor with each delectable bite.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

Crust:

• 2 cups (480 milliliters) graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup (50 grams) granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

Cheesecake Layer:

• 16 ounces (454 grams) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup (100 grams) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Apple Layer:

• 3 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/4 cup (50 grams) brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

Supporting Ingredients:

Streusel Topping:

• 1/2 cup (60 grams) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (50 grams) brown sugar
• 1/4 cup (57 grams) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 cup (30 grams) chopped pecans (optional)

Caramel Sauce:

• 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) water
• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven at 350°F and arrange parchment paper in a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. Combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon to create a cohesive crust mixture.
3. Press the crust firmly into the pan’s bottom, ensuring an even layer.
4. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool completely.
5. Whip cream cheese and sugar until achieving a smooth, creamy consistency.
6. Incorporate eggs individually, thoroughly mixing after each addition to maintain a uniform texture.
7. Blend in vanilla extract for enhanced flavor depth.
8. Gently pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust, spreading evenly.
9. Toss diced apples with lemon juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg to prevent browning and enhance flavor.
10. Distribute the seasoned apple mixture uniformly across the cheesecake layer.
11. Create streusel topping by combining flour and brown sugar.
12. Cut cold butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
13. Optionally fold in chopped pecans for added crunch.
14. Generously sprinkle the streusel over the apple layer.
15. Bake for 45-50 minutes until the streusel turns golden and the cheesecake sets.
16. Allow the dessert to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for minimum 2 hours.
17. Prepare caramel by heating sugar and water in a saucepan over medium heat until sugar dissolves.
18. Increase heat and cook without stirring until the mixture transforms to a rich amber color (8-10 minutes).
19. Carefully whisk in cream, which will create a vigorous bubbling reaction.
20. Incorporate butter and salt, stirring until the caramel reaches a smooth consistency.
21. Let the caramel cool slightly to prevent burning.
22. Slice the chilled bars into neat squares.
23. Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the bars just before serving for a decadent finish.

Notes

• Use room temperature cream cheese for a smoother, lump-free cheesecake base that blends perfectly.
• Patting apple pieces dry before mixing prevents excess moisture from making the bars soggy.
• Chilling the bars completely helps them set and develop deeper, richer flavor profiles.
• Swap graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives for a celiac-friendly version of this decadent dessert.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 25 g
• Sodium: 210 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 42 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 60 mg