These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are a sweet treat combining creamy cheesecake with yummy apples and rich caramel. They’re perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself!
Honestly, what’s better than the taste of apples and caramel together? I always feel like a kid again when I eat these. Serve them warm for an extra cozy moment! 🍏🍮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: These form the crust. If you don’t have graham crackers, try using digestive biscuits or crushed vanilla wafers for a similar taste and texture.
Apples: Granny Smith apples are tart and hold up well when baked. You can swap them for Fuji or Honeycrisp for a sweeter option. For a fun twist, mix different types of apples!
Cream Cheese: I always use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest results. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Neufchâtel cheese instead, though the taste will be slightly different.
Caramel Sauce: Homemade caramel is amazing, but for convenience, store-bought works just as well. Feel free to use butterscotch sauce for variety!
How Can I Ensure My Cheesecake Bars Set Perfectly?
Getting that perfect cheesecake texture is key. Here’s how to ensure your bars set beautifully:
- Beat the cream cheese until smooth with no lumps. This helps incorporate air and results in a stable filling.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently to avoid overbeating. This keeps the filling from becoming too fluffy.
- Bake until the center is slightly jiggly. It continues to firm up as it cools.
Make sure to chill them properly for at least 2 hours before serving to firm them up completely!
Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the Apple Layer:
- 2 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Fuji), peeled, cored, and finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Streusel Topping:
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
For the Drizzle:
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Optional: white chocolate or vanilla glaze for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dessert takes about 20 minutes to prepare and 50-55 minutes to bake. After that, don’t forget to chill the bars in the fridge for at least 2 hours before serving. All together, you’ll need about 3 hours for relaxation and indulgence. Worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, making sure to leave an overhang on the sides. This will help you lift the bars out after baking.
2. Make the Crust:
In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for about 8 minutes, or until the crust is set. After baking, remove it from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Apple Layer:
In a small bowl, toss your chopped apples with lemon juice, brown sugar, and cinnamon. This will enhance their flavor and keep them from browning. Set the apple mixture aside.
4. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer or stand mixer until it’s smooth and creamy. Add in the sugar and mix until combined. Then, add the eggs one at a time, making sure to mix well after each addition. Finally, mix in the vanilla extract until everything is smooth.
5. Assemble the Bars:
Pour half of the cheesecake mixture onto your warm crust, spreading it evenly. Next, sprinkle the prepared apple mixture over the cream cheese layer. Finally, gently spread the rest of the cheesecake mixture on top of the apples.
6. Make the Streusel Topping:
In another medium bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs.
7. Add Streusel and Bake:
Evenly sprinkle the streusel topping over the cheesecake layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
8. Cool and Drizzle:
Once baked, let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. After they cool, generously drizzle caramel sauce over the top for that sweet finish. You can also add some melted white chocolate or a vanilla glaze if you like!
9. Chill and Serve:
Finally, refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours. This chilling time ensures they set perfectly and makes them easier to cut. When you’re ready, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut them into squares and enjoy them chilled or at room temperature!
Enjoy your luscious Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars, where creamy meets fruity goodness in every bite! 🍏✨
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are tart and work beautifully in this recipe, you can also use sweeter varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp. Mixing different kinds can add a delightful flavor contrast!
Can I Make the Bars Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can definitely make these bars a day in advance! Just prepare and bake as directed. After they cool, store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve them. They taste even better after chilling!
What Should I Do If My Cheesecake Filling is Lumpy?
To avoid lumps, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. If you encounter lumps, beat the mixture for a bit longer with your mixer until it’s smooth and creamy. Just be careful not to overbeat once you add the eggs!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn!