Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Creamy cheesecake melds with tender apples and swirls of caramel atop a crunchy graham cracker crust—perfect for autumn gatherings or anytime dessert indulgence.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
Filling
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 eggs
- 2 cups apples, peeled and diced
- 1 cup caramel sauce
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Prep Your Workspace and Ingredients: Before you get started, make sure your kitchen is tidy and organized. Gather all your ingredients and tools including a mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, an electric mixer or whisk, a spatula, and a greased 9×9 inch baking pan.
- Prepare the Base or Crust: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup of sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well-coated and resembling wet sand. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the greased baking pan to form the crust.
- Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, 1 cup of sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy using an electric mixer on medium speed. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Fold in Apples and Cinnamon: Gently fold in the diced apples and cinnamon into the cream cheese filling. Be careful not to over-mix to maintain apple texture.
- Combine Filling and Crust: Pour the apple-infused cream cheese filling over the crust in the pan and spread evenly with a spatula.
- Drizzle Caramel Sauce: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top and use a knife to swirl it into the cheesecake mixture for a marbled effect without fully combining.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. The top will be lightly golden and firm to touch.
- Cooling Time: Allow the bars to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set properly before slicing.
- Slicing: Use a sharp knife to slice the cheesecake into neat bars.
- Enjoy: Serve chilled with optional extra caramel sauce drizzled on top for added sweetness.
Notes
- Letting the bars chill thoroughly ensures clean slices.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freeze tightly wrapped in plastic and foil for up to 3 months; thaw overnight before serving.
- Avoid overmixing the filling to prevent cracks and maintain texture.
- Underbaking slightly is okay, aim for set edges and a slightly jiggly center.
- Try adding nutmeg or ginger for an extra spice kick.
- Using a food processor for the crust may yield a finer texture.
- Top with toasted nuts for additional crunch if desired.
Keywords: Apple, Bars, caramel, Cheesecake, Fall