Irresistible Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Sharing is caring!

Welcome to the ultimate fall dessert experience! Indulge in our irresistible Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe, where creamy cheesecake meets spiced apples and a buttery, crumbly streusel. This easy-to-follow recipe brings together classic autumn flavors in one delicious treat. Get ready to bake a show-stopping dessert that’s as simple to make as it is delightful to eat. For another delightful baking project blending unique flavors, explore our carrot cake sourdough bread recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe

This recipe is designed for busy parents and beginners, making baking accessible and enjoyable. Here’s why these bars will become your new favorite:

• Easy to follow: Our step-by-step guide ensures a foolproof baking experience every time. If you’re exploring other easy and delicious baked goods, our cottage cheese banana bread offers a delightful, moist treat.
• Combines favorite fall treats: Enjoy the best of apple pie and cheesecake in one convenient bite.
• Ideal for entertaining crowds: These bars are perfect for potlucks, parties, or family gatherings.
• Convenient bar format: Easily slice and serve, no plates or forks required for a casual gathering.
• Perfect balance of sweet and tart: The Granny Smith apples cut through the rich sweetness beautifully.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your delectable Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars. Using quality ingredients ensures the best flavor and texture in your finished dessert.

For the Crust:

• All-purpose flour: 2 cups
• Packed brown sugar: 1/2 cup
• Cold butter: 2 sticks (1 cup)

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• Cream cheese, softened: 2 (8 oz) packages
• Granulated sugar: 1/2 cup
• Large eggs: 2
• Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon

For the Apple Layer:

• Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, finely chopped: 3 large
• Granulated sugar: 2 tablespoons
• Ground cinnamon: 1/2 teaspoon
• Ground nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon

For the Streusel Topping:

• Packed brown sugar: 1 cup
• All-purpose flour: 1 cup
• Quick-cooking oats: 1/2 cup
• Cold butter: 1 stick (1/2 cup)

For Drizzling:

• Caramel topping: 1/2 cup

Notes & Substitutions

Ensure your butter and cream cheese are softened to room temperature for a smooth, lump-free filling and a properly crumbly streusel. For the apple layer, feel free to use other tart varieties like Honeycrisp or Braeburn for a slightly different flavor profile. If you need a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in both the crust and streusel. Any good quality store-bought or homemade caramel sauce works perfectly for drizzling over these rich caramel apple cheesecake bars.

Equipment

Having the right tools makes baking these Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars a breeze. You likely have most of these items already in your kitchen.

• 9×13 inch baking pan: Essential for the correct bar thickness.
• Electric mixer: A stand mixer or hand mixer works best for the creamy filling.
• Mixing bowls: You will need several different sizes for various components.
• Pastry blender: Or use a fork or your clean fingers to cut butter into flour.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy is key for delicious results.

Instructions: How to Make Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Follow these step-by-step instructions to bake your perfect Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars. This detailed guide makes the process simple and enjoyable, even for beginners.

Prep Work

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Next, line a 9×13 inch baking pan with heavy-duty aluminum foil, ensuring you leave an overhang on the sides. This overhang creates “handles” for easy removal of the baked bars later.

Make the Shortbread Crust

In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1/2 cup of packed brown sugar. Add 2 sticks of cold butter, cut into small pieces. Use a pastry blender, a fork, or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan. Bake the crust for 15 minutes, or until it appears lightly browned around the edges.

Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

While the crust is still warm, prepare the rich cream cheese filling. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Next, add the two large eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition until just combined. Stir in the vanilla extract. Pour this smooth cream cheese filling evenly over the warm, baked shortbread crust.

Layer the Apples

In a small bowl, combine the finely chopped Granny Smith apples with the remaining 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg. Toss everything together until the apples are well coated with the spices and sugar. Carefully spoon the apple mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer in the pan.

Create the Streusel Topping

Now, make the delicious streusel topping for your Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars. In a separate small bowl, combine 1 cup of packed brown sugar, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, and 1/2 cup of quick-cooking oats. Quick-cooking oats are favored in many baking recipes because they contribute to a finer texture and act as a binding agent. Add 1 stick of softened butter, cut into small pieces. Use a pastry blender or your fingers to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture forms coarse crumbs. Sprinkle this streusel topping evenly over the apple layer in the baking pan.

Bake and Finish

Place the pan back into the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the cream cheese filling appears set and the streusel topping is golden brown. Remove the pan from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, transfer the pan to the refrigerator and chill the bars thoroughly for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. Before serving, lift the bars out of the pan using the foil handles. Drizzle generously with 1/2 cup of caramel topping. Finally, cut the chilled block into 2 dozen beautiful Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars.

Pro Tips for Perfect Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Mastering your Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars involves a few simple tricks. These tips ensure your dessert turns out perfectly every time, even for beginner bakers.

• Ensure ingredients are room temperature: Softened cream cheese and butter blend smoothly, preventing lumps in your filling and streusel.
• Avoid over-mixing cheesecake batter: Overmixing incorporates too much air, which can lead to cracks in your cheesecake as it cools.
• Chill bars completely for clean cuts: This step is crucial for firm, neat slices and to allow the layers to fully set.
• Use heavy-duty foil for easy lifting: The sturdy foil prevents tearing when you remove the entire slab of bars from the pan.
• Choose firm, tart apples: Many chefs agree that Granny Smith apples are prized for their tart flavor and ability to hold their texture when baked, providing the perfect tangy contrast to the sweet cheesecake and caramel.

Serving, Storage, and Variations

Make the most of your delightful Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars with these versatile options.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these bars chilled or at room temperature, depending on your preference. For an extra special treat, add a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. For a refreshing and unique frozen dessert, consider our cottage cheese berry ice cream. A final garnish of extra caramel drizzle or a sprinkle of cinnamon makes them even more appealing.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container. Keep them refrigerated for up to 5 days, ensuring they stay fresh and delicious. For longer storage, freeze individual bars by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Recipe Variations

Get creative with your Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars by trying these fun variations. Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the streusel topping for extra crunch and nutty flavor. Experiment with different spices like a pinch of allspice or a dash of ginger alongside the cinnamon and nutmeg. For a gourmet twist, substitute pears for apples, or use a high-quality bourbon caramel sauce for drizzling. For more delightful baked treats, you might also enjoy our coffee cake baked oatmeal recipe.

Nutrition Information

These delightful Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars offer a rich dessert experience. Please note that the following nutritional information is an estimate only. Calorie and nutrient counts can vary based on specific ingredients, portion sizes, and preparation methods. We recommend using an online nutritional calculator with your exact ingredients for precise figures.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying this delicious Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe.

• What type of apples are best? Granny Smith apples are highly recommended due to their firm texture and tartness, which perfectly balances the sweetness of the bars.
• Can I make these bars ahead of time? Absolutely, these bars are a perfect make-ahead dessert; chilling them overnight allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.
• How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking? Use room temperature ingredients, avoid overmixing the batter, and allow the bars to cool gradually to prevent cracking.
• Can I use a different size baking pan? You can, but you’ll need to adjust the baking time accordingly and the thickness of the layers will change. A 9×13 pan is ideal for this recipe.
• How do I freeze these bars? Wrap each cooled bar individually in plastic wrap, then store them in an airtight freezer-safe container or bag for best results.

Conclusion

These easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe offers the perfect blend of creamy cheesecake, spiced apples, and a delightful streusel topping, all finished with a luscious caramel drizzle. They are incredibly simple to make, even for beginners, and promise a taste of pure autumn bliss in every bite. Whether for a holiday gathering, a casual dessert, or just a sweet treat for your family, this recipe is a true crowd-pleaser.

Irresistible Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe

These irresistible caramel apple cheesecake bars feature a buttery crust, creamy cheesecake filling, spiced apples, and a crumbly streusel topping, finished with a drizzle of caramel.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Servings: 12 bars

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Cheesecake Bars

• 1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 Granny Smith apples peeled, cored and finely chopped
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar divided
• 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese softened
• 1/2 cup caramel topping
• 1 1/2 cups brown sugar firmly packed and divided
• 3 cups all purpose flour divided
• 1/2 cup quick cooking oats
• 3 sticks Butter softened and divided

Streusel Topping (for easy reference)

• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup oats
• 1 stick softened butter

Equipment

• Oven
• Medium Bowl
• Pastry Blender
• 13x9 inch Baking Pan
• Large Bowl
• Electric Mixer
• Small Bowl

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350 °F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups flour and 1/2 cup brown sugar. Cut in 2 sticks butter with a pastry blender until crumbly, then press into a foil-lined 13x9 inch baking pan and bake for 15 minutes or until lightly browned.

Assembly and Baking

1. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup sugar until smooth using an electric mixer, then mix in 2 eggs one at a time and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Pour this mixture over the warm crust.
2. In a small bowl, stir together the chopped apples, remaining 2 tablespoons sugar, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg. Spoon this apple mixture evenly over the cream cheese, then sprinkle with the Streusel topping.
3. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the filling is set. Drizzle with 1/2 cup caramel topping after baking.

Streusel Topping Instructions

1. To make the Streusel Topping, combine 1 cup brown sugar, 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup quick cooking oats, and 1 stick softened butter in a small bowl.

Notes

Ensure cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother texture. Lining the baking pan with heavy-duty aluminum foil will make it much easier to lift out and cut the bars once cooled. Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting for clean, neat slices.