Why Make This Recipe
Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat combining the creamy texture of cheesecake with the sweet and tart flavors of apples and caramel. This recipe is perfect for fall gatherings, family dinners, or just a tasty dessert at home. They are easy to make and a sure hit with friends and family.
How to Make Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 2 cups sliced apples
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated.
- Fold in the sliced apples and cinnamon.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust in the pan.
- Drizzle caramel sauce over the top and gently swirl with a knife.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes until the center is set.
- Allow to cool, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before cutting into bars. Enjoy!
How to Serve Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
Cut the bars into squares and serve them chilled. You can top them with extra caramel sauce or whipped cream for an even sweeter touch. These bars are great on their own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
How to Store Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3-5 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the bars in individual portions for up to 3 months.
Tips to Make Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
- Make sure your cream cheese is softened before mixing. This will help create a smoother filling.
- Use a variety of apples for added flavor and texture; Granny Smith and Honeycrisp work well.
- Don’t skip refrigerating the bars before cutting them; this helps them set up nicely.
Variation
For a different twist, you can add nuts like pecans or walnuts to the cheesecake mixture or sprinkle them on top before baking. You can also try using other fruits like pears or peaches instead of apples.
FAQs
1. Can I use a store-bought crust instead of graham cracker crumbs?
Yes, you can use a pre-made crust if you’re short on time.
2. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or almond flour in place of the regular crumbs.
3. What can I use instead of caramel sauce?
You can use chocolate sauce for a different flavor or make a homemade caramel sauce if you prefer.
Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful cheesecake bars combining creamy texture with sweet and tart flavors of apples and caramel, perfect for fall gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 2 cups sliced apples
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated.
- Fold in the sliced apples and cinnamon.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust in the pan.
- Drizzle caramel sauce over the top and gently swirl with a knife.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes until the center is set.
- Allow to cool, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before cutting into bars.
Notes
Tip: Use a variety of apples for added flavor and texture; Granny Smith and Honeycrisp work well.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
