Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are the perfect treat for any occasion. They combine the richness of cheesecake with warm, sweet apples and a touch of caramel. Each bite is creamy and satisfying, making this dessert a favorite among family and friends.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

These cheesecake bars are delightful and simple to make. They are creamy and sweet, with a crispy crust that balances the softness of the filling. Plus, they are great for sharing at gatherings or as a cozy dessert at home. With basic ingredients, you can whip up these delicious bars in no time!

How to Make Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Making these bars is straightforward and fun. You’ll start by creating a simple graham cracker crust. Then, blend the creamy filling, fold in fresh apples, and add a touch of caramel for extra sweetness. The whole process only takes a little time, and the result is sure to impress.

What You Need

To make this recipe, gather the following ingredients:

1 cup graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 cups cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups peeled and diced apples
1/2 cup caramel sauce

Step-by-Step

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press this mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gently fold in the diced apples until evenly mixed.
Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust. Drizzle caramel sauce on top and swirl it gently with a knife.
Bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set and slightly firm.
Allow the bars to cool completely. Then, refrigerate for at least 4 hours before cutting into squares and serving.

How to Serve Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

These bars are delicious served chilled on their own or with a drizzle of extra caramel sauce on top. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You can also enjoy them with a cup of warm cider or coffee, making them perfect for fall gatherings or a cozy family night.

How to Store Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

To keep leftovers fresh, store these bars in the fridge in an airtight container. They should stay good for about 4-5 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. Thaw them in the fridge when you are ready to enjoy them again.

Recipe Tips

Make sure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in your filling.
Let the bars cool completely before refrigerating them to help them set better.
You can substitute the apples with pears or other fruits if you prefer.
If you don’t have caramel sauce, feel free to use chocolate sauce instead for a different flavor.
Cut the bars with a warm knife for cleaner slices.

Variations & Swaps

Swap out the apples for chopped pears or peaches for a different fruity flavor.
Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs if you need a gluten-free option.
For a spice twist, add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling.
You can make mini bars by using a muffin tin instead of a baking pan.
Consider adding chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for a crunchy topping.

FAQs

Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, you can make them a day or two in advance. Just chill them in the fridge until serving.

Can I freeze these cheesecake bars?
Absolutely! Wrap them well and freeze them. They keep well for about 1-2 months.

How do I reheat the bars?
If you prefer them warm, you can microwave them for about 10-15 seconds before serving.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?
You can try using mascarpone or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a different flavor.

What is the best way to cut these bars?
Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water for clean slices. Wipe the knife between cuts for the best results.

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Deliciously creamy cheesecake bars featuring a graham cracker crust, fresh apples, and a drizzle of caramel, perfect for any occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 35

Total Time 4

Course Dessert, Snack

Cuisine American

Servings bars

Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients

Crust

1 cup graham cracker crumbs for the base of the cheesecake bars
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted to bind the crust

Filling

2 cups cream cheese, softened must be softened to avoid lumps
1 cup granulated sugar for sweetness
3 large eggs to help set the filling
1 teaspoon vanilla extract for flavoring
2 cups peeled and diced apples fresh apples can be substituted with pears or other fruits
1/2 cup caramel sauce for drizzling on top

Instructions

Preparation

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press this mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gently fold in the diced apples until evenly mixed.
Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust.
Drizzle caramel sauce on top and swirl it gently with a knife.

Baking

Bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set and slightly firm.
Allow the bars to cool completely. Then, refrigerate for at least 4 hours before cutting into squares and serving.

Notes

These bars are best served chilled. They keep well in the fridge for 4-5 days and can be frozen for 1-2 months. Use a warm knife for cleaner slices and store them in an airtight container.