Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars combine the best of fall flavors into one irresistible dessert. With a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, spiced apple layer, and a crumbly streusel topping finished with silky homemade caramel, every bite is pure indulgence. Perfect for holidays, bake sales, or cozy gatherings, these bars are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

For the Crust:
▢ 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
▢ ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
▢ ¼ cup granulated sugar
▢ ¼ tsp cinnamon

For the Cheesecake Layer:
▢ 16 oz cream cheese, softened
▢ ½ cup granulated sugar
▢ 2 large eggs
▢ 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Apple Layer:
▢ 3 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced
▢ 2 tbsp lemon juice
▢ ¼ cup brown sugar
▢ 1 tsp cinnamon
▢ ¼ tsp nutmeg

For the Streusel Topping:
▢ ½ cup all-purpose flour
▢ ¼ cup brown sugar
▢ ¼ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
▢ ¼ cup chopped pecans (optional)

For the Caramel Sauce:
▢ 1 cup granulated sugar
▢ ¼ cup water
▢ ½ cup heavy cream
▢ 2 tbsp unsalted butter
▢ ¼ tsp salt

Introduction

If you love cheesecake and apple pie, this dessert is your dream come true. These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars feature four distinct layers that come together in perfect harmony — a crisp crust, luscious cheesecake, cinnamon-spiced apples, and a buttery streusel crumble. Drizzled with golden caramel, they capture all the comforting flavors of autumn in one elegant treat.

Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon until well combined. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then remove and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer

In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract. Pour the cheesecake batter evenly over the cooled crust and smooth the top.

Step 3: Prepare the Apple Layer

In a medium bowl, toss the diced apples with lemon juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well coated. Evenly spoon the apple mixture over the cheesecake layer.

Step 4: Make the Streusel Topping

In another bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and cold cubed butter. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until crumbly. Stir in chopped pecans if desired. Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the apple layer.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is set and the topping is golden brown. Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely at room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully chilled.

Step 6: Prepare the Caramel Sauce

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, heat sugar and water over medium heat, stirring until dissolved. Stop stirring and allow the mixture to bubble until it turns a deep amber color. Carefully whisk in butter, then slowly add heavy cream while stirring constantly. Remove from heat and stir in salt. Let the caramel cool slightly before drizzling.

Step 7: Assemble and Serve

Once the cheesecake bars are chilled, drizzle generously with homemade caramel sauce before slicing. For a festive touch, add a sprinkle of sea salt or a few extra chopped pecans.

Tips for Success

1. Use cold butter for the streusel: It ensures a crumbly, crisp texture.
2. Chill before slicing: Cooling helps the cheesecake layer set for neat, clean cuts.
3. Choose tart apples: Granny Smiths balance the sweetness of the caramel beautifully.
4. Make ahead: These bars can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge until ready to serve.

Variations

Salted Caramel Twist: Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top of the caramel for a sweet-salty finish.
Apple-Pear Combo: Mix apples with diced pears for a lighter, fruitier flavor.
Spiced Crust: Substitute gingersnap crumbs for the graham crackers for a bolder taste.
Nut-Free Version: Simply omit the pecans if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these bars cold or slightly chilled for the best texture. Pair with a cup of coffee, hot cider, or chai latte for the ultimate cozy treat. Top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.

Storage and Make-Ahead

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To freeze, wrap individual bars tightly and store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Yes, you can use your favorite brand of caramel sauce to save time.

2. Can I use other apples besides Granny Smith?
Yes, try Honeycrisp, Braeburn, or Fuji — just ensure they’re firm and not overly sweet.

3. How can I tell when the bars are done baking?
The center should be set but slightly jiggly, and the topping should be golden brown.

4. Can I make this in a smaller pan?
Yes, halve the recipe and use an 8×8-inch pan.

5. Can the caramel sauce be made ahead?
Absolutely — store it in the fridge for up to 1 week and warm it slightly before drizzling.

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Conclusion

These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are the perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, and buttery goodness — a luxurious dessert that’s surprisingly simple to make. With layers of spiced apples, silky cheesecake, and a decadent caramel drizzle, they capture the warmth and sweetness of the holiday season in every bite. Ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any cozy occasion, they’re guaranteed to impress every dessert lover at your table.