Print

Cozy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

caramel apple cheesecake bars - featured image
Print Recipe

These cozy caramel apple cheesecake bars combine gooey caramel, cinnamon-spiced apples, and creamy cheesecake on a buttery crust, making a perfect fall indulgence that’s quick and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons caramel sauce
  • 3 medium apples (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional garnish: chopped pecans or walnuts

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×9-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides.
  2. Make the crust by combining graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar in a medium bowl. Press firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes and set aside to cool slightly.
  3. Prepare the cheesecake layer by beating softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract and caramel sauce. Pour over the warm crust and spread evenly.
  4. Cook the apple topping by heating butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and salt. Cook for about 8 minutes until apples soften but hold shape.
  5. Spoon the warmed apple mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer. Sprinkle chopped nuts on top if desired.
  6. Bake the bars for 35-40 minutes until the cheesecake is set but slightly jiggly in the center. Cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours, then chill in the fridge for 3+ hours or overnight.
  7. Use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Cut into squares and drizzle extra caramel sauce on top if desired.

Notes

Use room temperature cream cheese for smooth batter. Press crust firmly to prevent crumbling. Cook apples gently to keep them soft but not mushy. Avoid overbaking to prevent cracks. Chill bars overnight for best texture and flavor. For vegan or gluten-free adaptations, substitute ingredients as suggested.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://cheerycrisp.com/cozy-caramel-apple-cheesecake-bars-easy-recipe-for-fall-indulgence/