These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are a sweet treat with a creamy cheesecake layer and tasty bits of apple, all drizzled in sticky caramel. Perfect for sharing or enjoying all by yourself!
Let’s be real: the caramel takes these bars to a whole new level! I love serving them at family gatherings, and they always disappear fast. Who can resist such a sweet combo? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham cracker crumbs: These form the base of the bars and add a sweet crunch. If you don’t have graham crackers, crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafer cookies work well, too.
Cream cheese: This gives the cheesecake layer its creamy texture. For a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or low-fat cream cheese, but it may affect the flavor slightly.
Apples: Granny Smith apples are my favorite for their tartness, but you can use any apples you enjoy. Try Honeycrisp or Gala for a sweeter flavor. For a twist, add pears too!
Brown sugar: This adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness. If you run out, you can use white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses as a substitute.
Pecans or walnuts: These add a lovely crunch to the topping, but if you have nut allergies, simply leave them out or switch to oats for texture.
How Do I Ensure My Cheesecake Layer Is Creamy and Smooth?
Getting that perfect creamy cheesecake layer is key to these bars! Here are some tips to help:
- Always use room temperature cream cheese for easy blending. This avoids lumps and creates a smoother texture.
- Beat the cream cheese until it’s completely smooth before adding sugar or eggs. This ensures even mixing.
- Mix in the eggs one at a time and scrape down the sides of the bowl to make sure everything is well combined.
- Pour the batter over the cooled crust to avoid melting the crust into the filling.
Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Apple Layer:
- 3 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Fuji), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
For the Crumb Topping:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
For Drizzling:
- Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time, plus 40-45 minutes to bake, and at least 3 hours in the fridge to set up. So, plan for about 4 hours total before you can dig in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to make the bars easier to remove later.
2. Make the Crust:
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until everything is fully combined. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes until it’s set, then take it out and let it cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Cheesecake Layer:
Now, in a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s creamy and smooth. Add in the sugar, mixing until fully combined. Then, add the eggs one by one, mixing after each addition. Lastly, stir in the vanilla extract. Pour this creamy cheesecake batter gently over the cooled crust.
4. Cook the Apples:
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the thinly sliced apples, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until the apples become tender and caramelized. Once done, remove from heat and let them cool for a few minutes.
5. Layer the Apples:
Spread the caramelized apple mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer in the baking pan, making sure to distribute it well.
6. Make the Crumb Topping:
In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. If you’re using nuts, stir them in now.
7. Add the Topping:
Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the apple layer, covering it generously.
8. Bake the Bars:
Place the pan back in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. You’ll know they are done when the topping is golden brown and the cheesecake layer is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
9. Cool and Chill:
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. After it’s cooled, cover it and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or overnight if you can wait, to let it set up nicely.
10. Serve & Enjoy:
When ready to serve, cut the cheesecake bars into squares and drizzle them generously with caramel sauce. You can enjoy them chilled or at room temperature. They’re best shared with friends and family!
These delicious Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars feature a rich and creamy cheesecake, fresh spiced apples, a crunchy topping, and sweet caramel drizzle that will make your taste buds dance with joy!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Fuji apples are great options, you can use any variety you like. Honeycrisp, Gala, or even a mix of apples and pears can add wonderful flavor and texture to the bars.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the freshness of the crust and toppings, try to minimize exposure to air.
Can I Make These Bars Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free graham crackers or crushed gluten-free cookies. You can also use a gluten-free flour blend for the crumb topping.
How Can I Make the Cheesecake Layer Extra Creamy?
To ensure a super creamy texture, use room temperature cream cheese. Beat it well before adding other ingredients, and mix the eggs in one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
