Caramel apple cheesecake bars with a graham cracker crust and caramel drizzle

Why Make This Recipe

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are a delicious treat that combines creamy cheesecake with sweet apples and rich caramel. This lovely dessert is perfect for gatherings, holidays, or just a cozy night in. They are easy to make, and everyone who tries them will love the flavor and texture. Plus, they look impressive on any dessert table!

How to Make Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Ingredients

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

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking pan.
In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press this mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the crust.
In a large bowl, beat together cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in the vanilla extract.
Stir in the chopped apples and pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust in the baking pan.
Drizzle caramel sauce over the top and use a knife to swirl it into the cheesecake mixture.
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the center is set.
Allow to cool, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before cutting into bars.
Serve cold, drizzled with additional caramel if desired.

How to Serve Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

To serve Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars, cut them into small squares or rectangles. Place them on a dessert plate and drizzle a bit more caramel sauce over the top for an extra sweet touch. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream or serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an even more delightful dessert experience.

How to Store Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to five days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Wrap each bar in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Tips to Make Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth mixture.
Choose apples that are sweet and firm, like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, for the best flavor and texture.
Don’t skip the chilling time, as this helps the bars set properly and enhances the flavors.

Variation

If you want to switch things up, try adding nuts like chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for added crunch. You can also use different fruits, like pears or berries, for a new twist on this classic recipe.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Yes, store-bought caramel sauce works great in this recipe. Just make sure it’s a good quality brand for the best flavor.

What type of apples are best for this recipe?
Sweet and slightly tart apples, like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, give the best flavor and texture. Feel free to mix different types of apples for a unique taste!

Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars are perfect for making ahead. Just store them in the fridge after they cool, and they will be ready to serve later.