These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are a sweet and creamy treat! With a crunchy crust, smooth cheesecake layer, and topped with yummy caramel and apples, they are hard to resist.
After a long day, these bars are my go-to dessert. I love how easy they are to share, but watch out—they disappear quickly! 🍏🍰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: These create the base for your crust. If you don’t have graham crackers, try using crushed vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits for a different flavor.
Cream Cheese: It gives the cheesecake that classic creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use Neufchâtel cheese which has less fat but still holds up well.
Apples: I recommend tart green apples like Granny Smith for a nice contrast to the sweet filling. Other options include Honeycrisp or Fuji if you prefer sweeter apples.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling the saltiness in your dessert. If you’re dairy-free, substitute with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative.
Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These spices enhance the apple flavor. If you’re out of nutmeg, you can skip it or use a pinch of allspice for a similar warming flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Make Sure Your Cheesecake Bars Are Creamy?
To achieve that smooth and creamy cheesecake texture, it’s essential to let your cream cheese soften fully. Cold cream cheese can create lumps, so always take it out an hour before you start mixing!
- Beat the cream cheese until fluffy before adding sugar; this helps incorporate air for a better texture.
- Mix in eggs one at a time and don’t overmix. It prevents the cheesecake from becoming too dense.
- Pour the cheesecake layer onto the cooled crust gently to maintain fluffiness.
With these tips and insights, you’ll make Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars that are deliciously creamy and perfectly layered. Enjoy baking!
Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Apple Topping:
- 2 medium apples (preferably tart green apples), peeled, cored, and finely chopped
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
For the Crumble Topping:
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Caramel Drizzle:
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dessert takes about 20 minutes of prep time and 40-45 minutes to bake. After baking, allow them to cool for at least 3 hours in the refrigerator (or overnight) so they set nicely. So, you’re looking at a total of around 4 hours from start to finish, including cooling time—definitely worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
First, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup sugar. Stir until everything is well mixed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking pan to form your crust. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then take it out and let it cool slightly.
2. Make the Cheesecake Layer:
In another large bowl, use a mixer to beat the softened cream cheese and 3/4 cup sugar together until the mixture is nice and smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, making sure to mix well after each addition. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract. Pour this creamy mixture evenly over your cooled crust.
3. Prepare the Apple Topping:
Now, let’s make the apple topping! In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add in the chopped apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour. Stir everything together and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the apples become tender and the mixture thickens. Once done, remove from heat.
4. Prepare the Crumble Topping:
In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, brown sugar, oats, and cinnamon for the crumble topping. Then stir in the melted butter until it resembles a crumbly mixture.
5. Assemble the Bars:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Spoon the warm apple mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer. Then, sprinkle the crumble topping evenly on top of the apples.
6. Bake:
Place your assembled pan in the oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes. You want the topping to be golden brown, and the cheesecake layer to be set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
7. Cool and Drizzle Caramel:
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. After that, refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight to fully set. Before serving, drizzle generously with caramel sauce.
8. Serve:
Cut the bars into squares and serve chilled. For an extra treat, consider topping them with additional caramel drizzle or a dollop of whipped cream. Enjoy your delicious Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars!
These bars are perfect for sharing or enjoying on a cozy evening in. Happy baking!
Can I Use Pre-Made Graham Cracker Crust?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, a store-bought graham cracker crust can save you some effort. Just skip to pouring the cheesecake mixture over it, and you’re good to go!
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Neufchâtel cheese, which has less fat. Alternatively, for a dairy-free option, try using cashew cream or a vegan cream cheese alternative.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag!
Can I Add Nuts to the Crumble Topping?
Yes, nuts would make a great addition! Chopped walnuts or pecans can give your crumble topping a nice crunch. Just mix them in with the flour, brown sugar, oats, and cinnamon for even distribution.