Description
Indulge in these delightful Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars, a perfect blend of creamy cheesecake, spiced apples, and rich caramel. This recipe offers a comforting taste of fall, ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- For the Apple Layer:
- 2 medium apples (such as Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and diced
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- For the Caramel Sauce:
- 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- For Topping:
- ½ cup chopped pecans (optional)
- Additional caramel sauce for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup sugar, and melted butter. Press firmly into the bottom of the dish.
- Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add ¾ cup sugar, then eggs one at a time on low speed. Stir in vanilla and 1 tsp cinnamon.
- Toss diced apples with brown sugar, 1 tsp cinnamon, and lemon juice.
- Pour half the cheesecake batter over the crust. Layer the apple mixture, then top with remaining cheesecake batter. Smooth the surface.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes until the center is set and slightly jiggles.
- Cool in the pan for 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Lift bars from the pan. Cut into squares and drizzle with caramel sauce. Sprinkle with optional pecans.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- For a smoother cheesecake, use room temperature cream cheese and eggs.
- Ensure apples are diced uniformly for even cooking.
- Allow bars to chill completely for best texture and flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar