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Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
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These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars combine a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, tender cinnamon-spiced apples, and a rich caramel topping to create a perfect fall dessert that’s easy to prepare and delightful to share.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling

  • 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Apple Layer

  • 2 cups fresh apples (about 2 medium), peeled and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Topping

  • 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade), warmed for drizzling

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Firmly press into the bottom of a parchment-lined 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking pan for an even crust. Chill briefly while preparing the filling.
  2. Make the Cheesecake Filling: Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing gently after each addition until creamy and fully combined to ensure a silky, dense filling.
  3. Prepare the Apple Layer: Peel and dice the apples. Toss them with cinnamon to infuse warmth. Spread this apple mixture evenly over the chilled crust in the pan.
  4. Assemble and Bake: Pour the cheesecake mixture evenly over the apple layer and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the cheesecake layer is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
  5. Add the Caramel Topping: Allow the bars to cool completely. Then drizzle warm caramel sauce generously over the top. Optionally, swirl some caramel into the cheesecake layer before baking or sprinkle sea salt on top for a salted caramel variation.

Notes

  • Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs for a smoother filling.
  • Mix filling gently to avoid excessive air incorporation and prevent cracks.
  • Use crisp, fresh apples for better texture after baking.
  • Cool bars completely and refrigerate before slicing for clean edges.
  • Warm caramel sauce slightly for easier and more even drizzling.

Nutrition

Keywords: caramel apple cheesecake bars, autumn dessert, caramel apple dessert, cheesecake bars, fall recipe

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/caramel-apple-cheesecake-bars/