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To make these caramel apple cheesecake bars, you need some simple ingredients. Here’s a list of what you will need: - 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs - ½ cup unsalted butter, melted - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar - 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened to room temperature - ¾ cup packed brown sugar - 2 large eggs, at room temperature - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract - 2 cups apples, peeled and diced (about 2 medium apples) - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - ½ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade) - Optional toppings: additional caramel sauce, whipped cream Each ingredient plays a key role in the final taste and texture. The graham cracker crumbs create a buttery crust. The cream cheese gives the bars their rich, creamy filling. Using fresh apples adds a nice crunch and sweetness. The spices, like cinnamon, enhance the flavors. And who can resist the sweet caramel drizzle on top? Make sure your cream cheese is soft. This helps it blend smoothly. Room temperature eggs also mix better, making your filling light and fluffy. Gather these ingredients, and you're ready to create a dessert that is sure to impress! {{ingredient_image_2}} - Set the oven to 325°F (160°C). - Line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper. - Combine 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs, ½ cup melted unsalted butter, and 2 tablespoons granulated sugar. - Press the mixture into the baking pan and bake for 10 minutes. - Beat 2 packages of cream cheese until smooth. - Gradually add ¾ cup packed brown sugar. - Add 2 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. - Pour in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract and mix until smooth. - Toss 2 cups of peeled and diced apples with 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon. - Fold the apple mixture into the cheesecake filling. - Pour the cheesecake-apple mixture over the crust and drizzle ½ cup caramel sauce on top. - Bake for 40-45 minutes. The edges should set, but the center will jiggle. - Cool in the oven for 30 minutes with the door slightly open. - Let the cheesecake bars reach room temperature. - Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight for best texture. - Lift the cheesecake bars out using the parchment paper. - Cut into squares and serve with optional caramel sauce and whipped cream. To get the best texture, use room temperature ingredients. When your cream cheese and eggs are warm, they mix well. This helps create a smooth filling. Next, let your cheesecake bars cool slowly. After baking, crack the oven door. This allows the bars to cool gradually for about 30 minutes. Then, let them reach room temperature before chilling in the fridge. This step is key for a creamy, dreamy texture! When serving, these bars shine at gatherings. Cut them into small squares for easy sharing. You can drizzle caramel sauce on top. A dollop of whipped cream adds a fun touch. For a special look, add a sprinkle of chopped nuts or a cinnamon stick. This simple garnish elevates your dessert game! One common mistake is overmixing the filling. Mix just until smooth. Too much mixing can add air and cause cracks. Another mistake is not letting the bars cool enough. Always allow them to cool completely before slicing. This will keep the bars firm and beautiful. Pro Tips Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This helps achieve a smoother cheesecake filling without lumps. Choose the Right Apples: For the best flavor and texture, use a mix of sweet and tart apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, to balance the richness of the cheesecake. Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cheesecake bars while baking. They should be set around the edges but still have a slight jiggle in the center for a creamy texture. Chill Before Serving: Allow the cheesecake bars to chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to enhance their flavor and make them easier to cut. {{image_4}} You can make your caramel apple cheesecake bars even better by adding nuts. Walnuts or pecans give a nice crunch. Just chop them up and mix them in with the apples. You can also try other fruits. Pears or peaches can add a new flavor twist. Just make sure to peel and dice them like the apples. If you want to change the crust, try using Oreo or cookie crusts. These will give a chocolatey flavor that pairs well with the apples. You can also make it gluten-free. Use almond flour instead of graham cracker crumbs. Mix it with melted butter and sugar for a tasty base. If you want a vegan option, there are great substitutes for cream cheese. You can use cashew cream or coconut cream instead. For eggs, try flax eggs or applesauce. Each option will keep the bars creamy and delicious without dairy. To keep your caramel apple cheesecake bars fresh, you should store them in the fridge. Place the bars in an airtight container or cover them tightly with plastic wrap. This method helps to maintain their creamy texture and rich flavor. If you want to enjoy them later, you can freeze them for longer storage. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. This keeps them safe from freezer burn. When stored in the fridge, your cheesecake bars can last for about 5 to 7 days. Make sure to check for any signs of spoilage before enjoying them. If you freeze the bars, they can last for up to three months. To thaw frozen bars, simply place them in the fridge overnight. This slow thaw helps them keep their creamy texture. Avoid thawing in the microwave, as this can change the consistency of the cheesecake. Yes, you can make these bars ahead. They taste even better the next day. Prepare them, cool, and chill them in the fridge. This way, flavors blend well. Just slice and serve when you're ready. I love using Granny Smith apples. They add a nice tartness that balances the sweet cream cheese. Honeycrisp apples also work well for their sweetness and crunch. You can mix different types for a fun twist. Absolutely! Store-bought caramel sauce saves time and is convenient. Just pour it over your bars as you would with homemade. Look for a good brand that has a rich flavor for the best results. Check the edges of the bars. They should look set, but the center should jiggle slightly. This jiggle means the filling is still creamy. If the edges crack, they are likely overbaked. Yes, refrigerating helps the bars firm up. It also enhances the flavors. Chill them for at least four hours, or overnight for the best texture. This way, they slice neatly and taste delightful. This recipe for Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars offers a delicious mix of flavors. You’ve learned about essential ingredients, easy steps, and handy tips for the best results. Remember to use room temperature ingredients for smooth texture and avoid overmixing. You can also get creative with flavors or storage options. Enjoy these treats at your next gathering, and don’t forget to personalize them! Now it’s time to bake and savor every bite of your tasty creation.

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Delicious cheesecake bars with a caramel apple twist, perfect for dessert lovers.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 50 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 0.5 cups unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 2 packages cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 0.75 cups packed brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2 cups apples, peeled and diced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 0.5 cups caramel sauce
  • optional additional caramel sauce for drizzling on top
  • optional whipped cream for serving

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and prepare a 9x9-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper.
  • In a medium mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until well blended.
  • Transfer the crumb mixture into the prepared baking pan and press it into an even layer. Bake for about 10 minutes until lightly golden and allow to cool slightly.
  • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add brown sugar, mixing until combined.
  • Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Pour in vanilla extract and mix until smooth.
  • In a separate bowl, toss diced apples with ground cinnamon and fold into the cheesecake filling.
  • Pour the cheesecake-apple mixture over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Drizzle half of the caramel sauce on top and swirl it gently.
  • Bake for approximately 40-45 minutes until edges are set but center has a slight jiggle. Allow to cool gradually in the oven for about 30 minutes.
  • Remove from the oven and let reach room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best texture.
  • Lift the cheesecake bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang, cut into squares, and optionally drizzle with additional caramel sauce and serve with whipped cream.

Notes

For a stunning presentation, plate the bars on a decorative serving platter, drizzle with extra caramel sauce, and add a dollop of whipped cream on the side. A sprinkle of chopped nuts or a cinnamon stick can add an elegant touch!
Keyword apple, bars, caramel, cheesecake, dessert