Hey there! If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that combines the flavors of fall, you’ve got to try these Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars. I remember one Thanksgiving when my son, Jake, insisted on helping me in the kitchen. Let’s just say the kitchen ended up looking like a scene from a food fight, but the caramel apple treats we made were a hit! These bars are easy to whip up and perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love It
- They combine creamy cheesecake with sweet caramel and tart apples.
- The graham cracker crust adds a delightful crunch.
- They’re perfect for any fall gathering or holiday celebration.
Pure Comfort
These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are pure comfort food. The rich cheesecake filling paired with warm caramel and tender apples creates a cozy dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
What You Need
- 1 ½ cups 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs – You can substitute with crushed vanilla wafers for a different flavor.
- ½ cup ½ cup unsalted butter, melted – Coconut oil can work as a dairy-free alternative.
- 2 cups 2 cups cream cheese, softened – Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
- 1 cup 1 cup granulated sugar – You can use coconut sugar for a healthier option.
- 2 large 2 large eggs – For a vegan option, use flax eggs.
- 1 tsp 1 tsp vanilla extract – You can use almond extract for a different flavor.
- 2 cups 2 cups apples, peeled and diced – Granny Smith apples work great for a tart flavor.
- 1 tsp 1 tsp cinnamon – Feel free to add nutmeg for extra warmth.
- 1 cup 1 cup caramel sauce – Store-bought or homemade works well.
Time to Cook
Prep: 20 minutes | Cook: 45 minutes | Total: 1 hour 5 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: Yes, you can make these bars a day in advance.
Steps to Make It
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. The smell of the warm oven will get you excited for these delicious bars.
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create a solid crust.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. You want it to look fluffy and light, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. This is the base for your cheesecake filling.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract. The mixture should be well combined and have a silky texture.
- Fold in the diced apples and cinnamon gently. You’ll want to see those apple pieces throughout the filling, adding a lovely color and flavor.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust in the baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. It should look golden and puffed up.
- Once done, let the bars cool in the pan for about 30 minutes. Then drizzle the caramel sauce over the top. The warm caramel will melt slightly into the cheesecake, making it even more irresistible.
- Chill the bars in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before slicing. This helps them set up nicely and makes for cleaner cuts.
- Cut into squares and serve. Enjoy the delicious blend of flavors and the smiles on your family’s faces!
Make It Perfect
- For a fun twist, try adding chopped nuts to the crust for extra crunch.
- Make sure to let the bars cool completely before cutting to avoid a messy slice.
- You can top these bars with whipped cream for an extra treat.
Mix It Up
- Substitute pears for apples for a different fruity flavor.
- Add a layer of chocolate chips for a caramel apple chocolate cheesecake bar.
Perfect Partners
- Serve with vanilla ice cream for a classic pairing.
- A cup of hot cider complements these bars beautifully.
💡 For more recipes, follow me on Facebook and Pinterest.
FAQs
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, they can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Can I freeze these bars?
Absolutely! Wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
You can use mascarpone cheese for a creamier texture.
What’s the best way to cut these bars?
For clean cuts, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between slices.
Conclusion
These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are sure to become a family favorite. With their creamy texture and sweet apple flavor, they make the perfect dessert for any occasion. So, gather your loved ones and enjoy these delightful treats together!
Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Equipment
- 9×13-inch Baking Dish
Ingredients
Graham cracker crumbs
- 1 ½ cups Graham cracker crumbs You can substitute with crushed vanilla wafers for a different flavor.
- ½ cup Unsalted butter, melted Coconut oil can work as a dairy-free alternative.
- 2 cups Cream cheese, softened Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
- 1 cup Granulated sugar You can use coconut sugar for a healthier option.
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract You can use almond extract for a different flavor.
- 2 cups Apples, peeled and diced Granny Smith apples work great for a tart flavor.
- 1 tsp Cinnamon Feel free to add nutmeg for extra warmth.
- 1 cup Caramel sauce Store-bought or homemade works well.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create a solid crust.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Fold in the diced apples and cinnamon gently.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust in the baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes.
- Once done, let the bars cool in the pan for about 30 minutes. Then drizzle the caramel sauce over the top.
- Chill the bars in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before slicing.
- Cut into squares and serve.