Delicious Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

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Welcome to your new favorite autumn dessert! These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars bring together luscious layers of buttery shortbread crust, rich vanilla cheesecake, sweet spiced apples, and a crumbly streusel topping, all finished with a decadent caramel drizzle. Get ready for an irresistible treat that’s surprisingly easy to make. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and perfect for beginners looking to impress!

Why You’ll Love These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

These delightful bars combine everyone’s favorite fall flavors into one simple dessert. Here’s why you’ll adore them:

• Perfect Flavor Harmony: Enjoy the delicious blend of tart apples, creamy cheesecake, and sweet caramel.
• Irresistible Textures: Each bite offers a delightful mix of a crisp crust, smooth filling, tender apples, and crunchy streusel.
• Ideal for Any Occasion: These bars are excellent for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy family dessert.
• Simple to Prepare: Even beginner bakers can achieve bakery-quality results with our easy-to-follow steps.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare them in advance to save time, making entertaining a breeze.

Ingredients

To make these delicious Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars, gather these essential components. Using quality ingredients ensures the best flavor and texture in your final dessert.

For the Shortbread Crust:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, firmly packed
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 3 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Apple Topping:

• 3 Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and finely chopped (about 3 cups)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

For the Streusel Topping:

• 1 cup brown sugar, firmly packed
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup quick-cooking oats
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Drizzle:

• 1/2 cup caramel topping (thick variety)

Notes & Substitutions

Granny Smith apples provide a wonderful tartness that balances the richness of the cheesecake and caramel. However, you can also use Honeycrisp or Fuji apples for a slightly sweeter apple layer. If using salted butter, reduce any added salt in the recipe by a pinch, though unsalted offers more control over flavor. For the creamiest cheesecake, use a full-fat block cream cheese from a trusted brand like Philadelphia. While quick-cooking oats are specified for a finer streusel, rolled oats can offer a chewier, more rustic texture if you prefer.

Equipment

Having the right tools makes preparing these easy apple cheesecake bars even smoother. You will need:

• 9×13 inch baking pan: For baking the bars.
• Parchment paper: To line the pan for easy removal.
• Mixing bowls: Medium, large, and small for different components.
• Electric mixer: Handheld or stand mixer for the cheesecake filling.
• Pastry blender: Or two forks, to cut butter into the crust and streusel.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient portions.

Instructions

Creating these delicious Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars is a straightforward process when you follow our step-by-step guide. Take your time, and you’ll achieve perfect results.

1. Prepare Oven & Pan: First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This ensures easy lifting of the baked bars later.
2. Make the Shortbread Crust: In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups all-purpose flour and 1/2 cup packed brown sugar. Cut in 1 cup softened butter using a pastry blender, two forks, or a food processor until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake the crust for 15 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden around the edges.
3. Prepare Cheesecake Filling: While the crust bakes, beat 3 (8-ounce) packages softened cream cheese with 3/4 cup granulated sugar in a large bowl with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Next, add the 3 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract. Pour this smooth cheesecake filling evenly over the warm, baked crust.
4. Prepare Apple Topping: In a small bowl, combine the 3 cups finely chopped Granny Smith apples with 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg. Toss gently to coat the apples. Spoon this spiced apple mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer, spreading it out to the edges.
5. Make the Streusel Topping: In another small bowl, combine 1 cup packed brown sugar, 1 cup all-purpose flour, and 1/2 cup quick-cooking oats. Add 1/2 cup softened butter. Use your clean hands to thoroughly combine the butter into the dry ingredients until coarse crumbs form. This hands-on method helps create the perfect crumbly texture. Sprinkle this streusel topping generously over the apple layer.
6. Bake the Bars: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. The cheesecake filling should appear set, and the streusel topping should be golden brown. A slight jiggle in the very center is okay; it will firm up as it cools. Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely to room temperature on a wire rack, which can take several hours.
7. Serve & Drizzle: Once cooled, transfer the pan to the refrigerator and chill the bars for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This is crucial for clean slices. After chilling, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhangs. Cut them into squares. Just before serving, drizzle the individual Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars with 1/2 cup of thick caramel topping. Serve cold and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Perfect Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Achieve professional-level results with these simple baking tips for your ultimate cheesecake bars:

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Always use softened cream cheese and butter for a smooth, lump-free cheesecake filling and easily incorporated crust/streusel. As noted by culinary experts, using softened cream cheese is essential for a smooth cheesecake texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the cheesecake batter can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks in the finished product. Mix until just combined.
• Avoid Overbaking: Bake until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. This prevents a dry or rubbery texture.
• Chill Completely: Chilling the bars for several hours (or overnight) is essential for clean, neat slices and the best texture.
• Parchment Paper is Key: Lining your pan with parchment ensures easy removal of the entire slab of bars, preventing sticking and making cutting much simpler.
• Streusel by Hand: Mixing the streusel with your hands helps create perfectly sized crumbs without overworking the butter.

Serving, Storage & Variations

These delightful treats are versatile and store well, making them perfect for any occasion.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the bars chilled for the best texture and flavor experience.
• Add a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Garnish with an extra drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.
• For an added crunch, sprinkle with finely chopped pecans or walnuts just before serving.

Storage

• Store any leftover Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the un-carameled bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 4 months.
• Thaw frozen bars in the refrigerator overnight before drizzling with caramel and serving.

Variations

• Pear Cheesecake Bars: Substitute the Granny Smith apples with firm, ripe pears for a different fruity twist.
• Nutty Streusel: Incorporate 1/2 cup of finely chopped walnuts or pecans into your streusel topping for added richness.
• Spiced Twist: Enhance the apple layer by adding a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom alongside the cinnamon and nutmeg.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate or chocolate syrup alongside the caramel for a double-sweet finish.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend for a gluten-friendly option.

Nutrition Information

Here is an estimated nutritional breakdown per bar (calculated for 24 servings). Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific brands and exact ingredient amounts used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I use other types of apples? Yes, you can. While Granny Smith apples offer a lovely tart balance, other firm, slightly tart or sweet-tart varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Braeburn also work beautifully in these bars.
• Can I use canned apple pie filling? While possible in a pinch, fresh diced apples are highly recommended for the best texture and flavor. If using pie filling, reduce the added sugar in the apple layer as canned fillings are often very sweet.
• How do I prevent the crust from being too hard to cut? Lining the pan with parchment paper helps immensely, allowing you to lift the whole dessert for easier slicing. Also, avoid pressing the crust too firmly into the pan, and ensure the bars are properly chilled before cutting.
• Can I make these caramel apple cheesecake bars ahead of time? Absolutely! These bars are an ideal make-ahead dessert. They actually taste even better when chilled overnight, as the flavors have time to meld together.
• Can I freeze caramel apple cheesecake bars? Yes, you can freeze them for up to 4 months. Just be sure to freeze them before drizzling with caramel sauce. Wrap the cooled, uncut bars tightly, and then drizzle with caramel after they have thawed in the refrigerator overnight.

Conclusion

These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars truly embody the spirit of comforting, easy-to-make desserts. With their multiple delicious layers and straightforward instructions, they’re perfect for both seasoned bakers and beginners alike. We encourage you to try this recipe for your next gathering or simply to treat yourself to a delightful fall-inspired treat. Let us know how yours turn out by sharing your comments and rating the recipe below!

Delicious Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

These delightful bars feature a buttery crust, a creamy cheesecake filling, and a spiced apple layer, all topped with a crunchy streusel and a luscious caramel drizzle. Perfect for a fall dessert, they combine classic flavors into an irresistible treat.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 45 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 45 minutes mins

Servings: 12 bars

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Crust

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar firmly packed
• 1 cup butter softened

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 3 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese softened
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 3 eggs large
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Apple Mixture

• 3 Granny Smith apples peeled, cored and finely chopped, (about 3 cups)
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

For the Streusel Topping

• 1 cup brown sugar firmly packed
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup quick cooking oats
• 1/2 cup butter softened

For Drizzling

• 1/2 cup caramel topping for drizzling after baked

Equipment

• Oven
• Medium bowl
• Pastry blender or food processor or 2 forks
• 9x13 baking pan
• Large bowl
• Electric mixer
• Small bowl
• Clean hands

Method

 

Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine flour and brown sugar. Cut in butter until crumbly, then press into a greased 9x13 baking pan and bake for 15 minutes or until lightly browned.

Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. Beat softened cream cheese with 3/4 cup sugar in a large bowl until smooth using an electric mixer. Gradually add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract, and pour the mixture over the warm crust.

Prepare the Apple Layer

1. In a small bowl, combine chopped Granny Smith apples with 2 tablespoons sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Spoon this apple mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer.

Add Streusel & Bake

1. For the streusel topping, combine brown sugar, flour, oats, and softened butter in a small bowl, mixing with your hands until thoroughly combined.
2. Sprinkle the streusel over the apples and bake for 40-45 minutes until the filling is set. Let the bars cool completely, then refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 4 months.

Serve

1. Drizzle the cooled bars with caramel topping before serving them cold.

Notes

These bars can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 4 months. Ensure bars are completely cool before drizzling with caramel and serving.