Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe with a Buttery Crust

Oh, sweet friends, if there’s one dessert that truly captures the cozy embrace of autumn while still offering that irresistible creamy indulgence, it’s this glorious Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe. Imagine sinking your teeth into a luscious bar where a buttery graham cracker crust meets a velvety cheesecake filling, crowned with tender, spiced apples and a swirl of rich caramel. It’s a symphony of textures and flavors that feels both wonderfully familiar and utterly magical.

I remember countless afternoons in my grandmother’s kitchen, the scent of cinnamon and baking apples mingling with her gentle laughter. Those memories shaped my love for creating treats that warm the soul, and this Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe feels like a direct echo of those cherished times. It’s a dessert that invites you to slow down, savor, and create new, sweet memories.

This recipe is truly a baker’s delight – not only is it wonderfully straightforward to prepare, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels, but it’s also an absolute crowd-pleaser for any gathering, from family dinners to festive celebrations. My top tip for these bars? Always ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature; it makes for the smoothest, most delightful filling!

What You Need to Make This Recipe

Crafting these delightful bars begins with a few simple, heartwarming ingredients. We’re talking about the comforting crunch of graham cracker crumbs for that perfect buttery crust, the rich tang of cream cheese that forms our dreamy filling, and, of course, crisp Granny Smith apples, which bring that wonderful tart-sweet balance to our Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe. The full list of measurements and ingredients awaits you in the recipe card just below!

How to Make Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Creating these delightful Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe is a joyful journey in four delicious steps. First, we press a simple, buttery graham cracker crust into place. Next, we whip up a smooth, creamy cheesecake filling that’s pure bliss. Then, we lovingly sauté apples with warm spices to create a tender, flavorful topping. Finally, we assemble everything and let it chill to perfection, transforming humble ingredients into an extraordinary dessert ready to be shared.

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Indulge in these decadent Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars, featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy, spiced cheesecake filling, and a topping of tender sautéed apples, all finished with a luscious caramel drizzle. A perfect fall treat!

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Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 55 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 25 minutes mins

Servings: 16 bars

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 380

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Graham Cracker Crust

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10-12 full graham cracker sheets)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter melted

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 2 8-ounce packages cream cheese softened to room temperature
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs room temperature
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ cup sour cream room temperature

For the Apple Topping

• 3 medium Granny Smith apples peeled, cored, and diced into ½-inch pieces
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• ¼ cup light brown sugar packed
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp cold water

For the Caramel Drizzle

• ½ cup prepared caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Equipment

• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Parchment Paper
• Large Mixing Bowl
• Medium Mixing Bowl
• Electric Mixer (stand or hand)
• Rubber Spatula
• Whisk
• Small saucepan
• Small bowl (for cornstarch slurry)
• Aluminum Foil

Method

 

Prepare the Crust Section

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the longer sides for easy lifting.
2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and ¼ cup granulated sugar. Pour in the melted butter and mix until all crumbs are moistened.
3. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Bake for 10 minutes. Remove from oven and set aside to cool slightly while preparing the filling. Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (160°C).

Make the Cheesecake Filling Section

1. In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
2. Add ¾ cup granulated sugar and continue beating until well combined and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed until just combined after each addition. Do not overmix.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until just incorporated. The mixture should be smooth.
5. Pour the cheesecake filling over the partially baked crust in the prepared pan.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. (A little movement in the center is okay, it will set as it cools).
7. Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack for at least 1 hour. While cooling, prepare the apple topping.

Prepare the Apple Topping Section

1. In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
2. Add the diced Granny Smith apples, packed light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and lemon juice. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes, or until apples are tender-crisp.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon cornstarch and 1 tablespoon cold water to create a slurry. Pour the slurry into the apple mixture, stirring constantly, and cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
4. Remove from heat and let the apple topping cool slightly.

Assemble and Chill Section

1. Once the cheesecake is cooled for at least an hour, carefully spoon the cooled apple topping evenly over the cheesecake layer.
2. Cover the pan loosely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, until completely chilled and set.
3. Once chilled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Place on a cutting board.
4. Drizzle the prepared caramel sauce generously over the top of the chilled bars.
5. Cut into 16 bars (4 rows by 4 rows) using a sharp knife, wiping the knife clean between cuts for neat edges.

Notes

For best results and easy slicing, ensure the cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature. To prevent cracks in the cheesecake, avoid overmixing the batter once the eggs are added. These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For an extra touch, warm the caramel sauce slightly before drizzling for a smoother application.

Pro Tips for Making This Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe

The Perfect Cheesecake Base

For the smoothest, creamiest cheesecake filling in your Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe, always make sure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature. This helps everything blend seamlessly, preventing lumps and ensuring a velvety texture. I usually take them out about an hour before I plan to bake.

My Secret Trick: Achieving Caramel Swirls

When adding your caramel sauce, don’t just pour it over the top. My secret trick for beautiful, artistic swirls is to drizzle the caramel in lines across the warm apple topping, then gently drag a toothpick or knife through the drizzles in alternating directions. This creates those lovely marbling effects without sinking into the cheesecake.

Don’t Overbake!

Keep a close eye on your Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe while it bakes. The cheesecake filling should be mostly set but still have a slight jiggle in the center when you gently shake the pan. Overbaking can lead to a dry, cracked cheesecake, and we want that luscious, creamy texture!

Cool Completely

Patience is truly a virtue with these bars! For clean, neat slices and the best texture, allow your Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe to cool completely at room temperature, then chill them in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight. It makes all the difference!

Fun Variations for Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe

There’s so much joy in experimenting in the kitchen, and this Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe is wonderfully adaptable! Here are a few ways to add your own special touch and make it uniquely yours.

Spiced Pecan Crunch Topping

My sister always asks me to add a little extra crunch. Before baking, sprinkle a mixture of chopped pecans, a touch more brown sugar, and a pinch of cinnamon over the apple topping. It adds a delightful texture and a nutty warmth that complements the apples and caramel beautifully. It’s a simple step that elevates these Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe.

Cranberry Swirl

For a festive twist, especially around the holidays, try swirling a spoonful or two of cranberry sauce (either homemade or good quality store-bought) into the cheesecake filling just before baking. The tart cranberries offer a lovely contrast to the sweet apples and caramel, bringing a burst of color and a delightful tang to your Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe.

Chocolate Drizzle Delight

A dear friend of mine loves anything with chocolate! After the bars have chilled, melt a bit of dark or milk chocolate and drizzle it decoratively over the caramel swirls. The chocolate and caramel apple combination is surprisingly harmonious and adds another layer of indulgence that makes these Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe even more decadent.

What to Serve With Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe

These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe are certainly a star on their own, but a few thoughtful pairings can make the dessert experience even more delightful!

I absolutely love serving a slice of these bars with a generous scoop of good quality vanilla bean ice cream. The cold, creamy ice cream melting into the warm, spiced apple and caramel is pure heaven. My mom always pairs her desserts with a comforting beverage, and for these, a hot cup of spiced chai tea or a rich, dark roast coffee would be absolutely divine, especially on a chilly evening. For a lighter touch, a dollop of freshly whipped cream dusted with a touch of cinnamon is always a welcome addition. And for a quick and easy serving idea, a simple drizzle of extra warmed caramel sauce right before serving is always a winner – because who can say no to more caramel?

How to Store Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Keeping your precious Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe fresh and delicious is super easy with a few simple tricks.

Refrigerator Storage

Once your bars are completely cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay wonderfully fresh and flavorful for up to 3-4 days. I always recommend placing a piece of parchment paper directly on top of the bars before sealing the container; it helps prevent them from drying out and keeps any condensation at bay, preserving that lovely texture.

Freezing for Later

Yes, you can freeze these delightful Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe! For longer storage, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. They’ll keep beautifully for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready for a sweet treat, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, or on the counter for a couple of hours. A personal tip: sometimes a quick, gentle warm-up in the microwave (just a few seconds!) can bring out those warm apple and caramel flavors beautifully, almost like they were freshly baked.

Nutritional Benefits

While this Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe is undeniably a treat for the soul, it also brings a few lovely things to the table. The Granny Smith apples contribute some natural fiber and vitamins, offering a touch of wholesome goodness to this comforting dessert. It’s a wonderful example of how we can enjoy a truly satisfying treat that’s both indulgent and made with simple, recognizable ingredients.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple for this Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe?
Yes, you can! While Granny Smith apples offer a lovely tartness that balances the sweetness, Honeycrisp or Fuji apples would also work well, providing a slightly sweeter and crispier texture in your Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe.

Do I have to use a springform pan for these bars?
No, a standard 9×13-inch baking pan is perfect for this Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe. A springform pan is generally used for whole cheesecakes, but for bars, a regular baking pan makes cutting and serving much easier.

Can I make the caramel sauce from scratch instead of using store-bought?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade caramel sauce recipe, it would be a fantastic addition to these Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe. Just ensure it’s a good pourable consistency for swirling.

How can I prevent the cheesecake from cracking?
To prevent cracks in your Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe, ensure all your dairy ingredients are at room temperature and avoid overmixing the filling. Also, allow the bars to cool slowly and completely before chilling.

Conclusion

And there you have it, sweet friends – the Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe, a dessert that truly embodies everything I adore about baking. It’s a taste of autumn, a hug in every bite, and a delightful way to bring warmth and joy into your kitchen. I truly hope you’ll gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and let the magic unfold. Remember, every whisk, every stir, every sweet scent that fills your home is a step towards creating not just a delicious dessert, but cherished memories that will last a lifetime. Happy baking!