Why Make This Recipe

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are a delightful dessert that combines the flavors of creamy cheesecake, sweet apples, and rich caramel. They are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a friendly get-together, or just a sweet treat for yourself. These bars are easy to make and can impress anyone who tries them. Plus, they’re a wonderful way to use fresh apples during the fall season!

How to Make Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup sugar
2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 large eggs
2 cups peeled, diced apples
1 cup caramel sauce
1 teaspoon cinnamon

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust.
In a large bowl, beat together cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Fold in the diced apples and cinnamon. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust.
Drizzle caramel sauce over the top and swirl with a knife.
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until set.
Allow to cool before refrigerating for at least 2 hours.
Cut into bars and serve, drizzling more caramel sauce on top if desired.

How to Serve Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Serve the caramel apple cheesecake bars chilled for the best flavor and texture. You can add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side or sprinkle some extra cinnamon on top for an added touch. If you want to impress your guests, drizzle more caramel sauce over each bar before serving.

How to Store Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Store the leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to five days. For longer storage, you can freeze the bars. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can last in the freezer for up to three months.

Tips to Make Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing. This will help create a smooth filling.
Use your favorite type of apples for added flavor. Tart apples like Granny Smith work well.
Don’t skip the chilling time after baking. This helps the bars set properly and improves the overall taste.

Variation

You can mix it up by adding nuts like chopped pecans or walnuts for some crunch. Alternatively, you can use different fruits, like pears or peaches, to give the bars a unique flavor twist.

FAQs

Q: Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
A: Yes, store-bought caramel sauce works perfectly for this recipe and saves you time!

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs to make a gluten-free crust.

Q: How do I know when the cheesecake bars are done?
A: The bars are done when they are set but still slightly jiggly in the center. They will firm up as they cool.