Deserts

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Name: Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 3 h 5 min
Yield: 16
Ingredients: 2 cups graham cracker crumbs; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; ¼ cup granulated sugar; ½ cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 medium apples; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; ¼ tsp ground nutmeg; ½ cup all-purpose flour; ½ cup old-fashioned oats; ¼ cup brown sugar; ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened; ½ cup caramel sauce

Servings: 16 Total Time: 3 hrs 5 mins Difficulty: Beginner

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Introduction

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are a decadent dessert that combines three beloved classics: crisp apples, creamy cheesecake, and rich caramel sauce. These bars start with a buttery graham cracker crust, followed by a luscious cheesecake layer, then topped with tender cinnamon-spiced apples and finished with a drizzle of caramel. The result is a sweet, tangy, and indulgent treat that’s perfect for autumn gatherings, potlucks, or simply when you’re craving something special.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it delivers all the flavors of a traditional cheesecake without the fuss of a springform pan or hours of baking. The layers are visually stunning, but the method is surprisingly easy, making it a great go-to dessert when I want something impressive yet approachable. The contrast of creamy cheesecake with tart apples and sticky caramel is irresistible—and the fact that it can be cut into bars makes it perfect for sharing.

Why This is a Must-Try Dish

Seasonal & festive – captures the best fall flavors in one bite.
Portable & shareable – perfect for parties, potlucks, or bake sales.
Texture heaven – crunchy crust, creamy filling, tender apples, and gooey caramel.
Easier than cheesecake – no water bath or complicated setup.
Crowd-pleaser – guaranteed to disappear quickly wherever you serve it!

Preparation & Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Chilling Time: 2 hours (minimum)
Total Time: 3 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 16 bars
Calories: ~310 kcal per serving

Cuisine & Course

Cuisine: American

Course: Dessert / Snack / Party Treat

Ingredients

For the Crust:

2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuits, finely crushed)
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
¼ cup granulated sugar

For the Cheesecake Layer:

16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Apple Topping:

2 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and diced
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp ground nutmeg

For the Crumble Topping (Optional):

½ cup all-purpose flour
½ cup old-fashioned oats
¼ cup brown sugar
¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Finish:

½ cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)

Simple Cooking Directions

Prepare crust and bake slightly.
Mix cheesecake filling and spread over crust.
Toss apples with sugar and spices, then layer on top.
Sprinkle with optional crumble topping.
Bake until set, cool, and chill.
Slice into bars and drizzle with caramel.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1 – Prepare the Crust

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined.
Press mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan.
Bake for 8 minutes, then set aside.

Step 2 – Make the Cheesecake Layer

In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in vanilla extract.
Spread cheesecake mixture evenly over the baked crust.

Step 3 – Prepare the Apple Layer

In a bowl, toss diced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Spread evenly over cheesecake layer.

Step 4 – Optional Crumble Topping

Combine flour, oats, brown sugar, and softened butter until crumbly.
Sprinkle evenly over apples.

Step 5 – Bake

Bake for 35–40 minutes, until cheesecake is set and apples are tender.
Cool at room temperature, then refrigerate at least 2 hours.

Step 6 – Finish & Serve

Slice into bars.
Drizzle generously with caramel sauce before serving.

How to Serve

Serve chilled for the cleanest cuts and best texture.
Drizzle with warm caramel just before serving.
Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Dust lightly with powdered sugar for a festive look.

Additional Recipe Tips

Use tart apples (like Granny Smith) to balance the sweetness.
Chill well before slicing—this makes the bars hold their shape.
Don’t overmix the cheesecake batter to avoid cracks.
If using store-bought caramel, warm it slightly for easier drizzling.

Variations

Salted Caramel Version – sprinkle flaky sea salt over caramel drizzle.
Nutty Twist – add chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumble topping.
Spiced Apple Bars – add a pinch of cloves or cardamom for extra warmth.
Shortcut Version – skip the crumble topping and just use apples + caramel.
Mini Cheesecake Bites – bake in muffin tins for individual servings.

Freezing & Storage

Refrigeration: Store covered in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Freeze bars (without caramel topping) for up to 2 months. Wrap individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag.
Thawing: Defrost in the refrigerator overnight, then drizzle with caramel before serving.

Special Equipment Needed

9×13-inch baking pan
Parchment paper
Electric mixer or hand mixer
Mixing bowls
Spatula
Sharp knife for cutting bars

Conclusion

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are the perfect dessert to celebrate autumn flavors while offering the creamy indulgence of cheesecake in a convenient bar form. With layers of buttery crust, rich cheesecake, spiced apples, and gooey caramel, these bars are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. They’re easy to prepare, freezer-friendly, and versatile enough to suit any occasion—whether it’s a cozy family night, a holiday gathering, or a potluck treat.

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