Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
Delightful caramel apple cheesecake bars with rich layers of cheesecake, buttery crust, and sweet caramel, perfect for fall celebrations.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup caramel sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool slightly.
- Make the cheesecake filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Assemble the layers: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
- Prepare the apples: In a separate bowl, toss the diced apples with lemon juice, cinnamon, and brown sugar. Spread the apple mixture over the cheesecake layer.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. The cheesecake will firm up as it cools.
- Cool and drizzle: Allow the bars to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing. Drizzle with caramel sauce just before serving.
Notes
Use room temperature ingredients for a smooth filling. Allow complete cooling before slicing for clean edges. Fresh, firm apples are ideal for best flavor.