Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are the perfect fall dessert! Featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, cinnamon-spiced apple topping, and a rich caramel drizzle, this recipe is easy to make and sure to impress.
Ingredients
Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 oz cream cheese softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Apple Topping:
- 2 cups peeled and thinly sliced tart apples Granny Smith or Honeycrisp
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
Streusel Topping:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter cold and cubed
Caramel Drizzle:
- 1/3 cup caramel sauce homemade or store-bought
Instructions
Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
Make the Cheesecake Layer:
- In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing until just combined.
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust and spread evenly.
Prepare the Apple Topping:
- Toss sliced apples with sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Arrange the apples evenly over the cheesecake layer.
Add the Streusel Topping:
- Combine flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cold butter in a bowl. Use a fork or your fingers to create a crumbly mixture. Sprinkle over the apple layer.
Bake:
- Bake the bars for 40-50 minutes, or until the cheesecake layer is set and the streusel topping is golden.
Cool and Add Caramel:
- Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Before serving, drizzle with caramel sauce.
Notes
- For best results, use tart apples like Granny Smith to balance the sweetness.
- Make the caramel sauce from scratch for a richer flavor, or use a high-quality store-bought option.
- Ensure the bars are fully chilled before slicing for clean cuts.