Go Back

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

A delightful combination of apple pie and cheesecake, these Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are perfect for fall gatherings or cozy evenings at home.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 12 pieces
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Baked
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Crust
  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 tsp cinnamon
Cheesecake Layer
  • 16 oz cream cheese (softened) Use full-fat for the best flavor.
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
Apple Layer
  • 3 medium Granny Smith apples (peeled and diced) Fresh and crisp for the best texture.
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tsp cinnamon Adjust to taste.
  • 1/4 tsp nutmeg Adjust to taste.
Streusel Topping
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional) Can substitute with almonds or walnuts.
Caramel Sauce
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Make the Crust
  1. In a bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, granulated sugar, and cinnamon until combined.
  2. Press the mixture into the bottom of the lined pan.
Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
  1. In another bowl, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth.
  2. Add the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla.
  3. Spread the cheesecake mixture over your crust.
Make the Apple Layer
  1. In a bowl, combine the diced apples with lemon juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  2. Layer this apple mixture over the cheesecake.
Create the Streusel Topping
  1. In a separate bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, brown sugar, and cold butter until crumbly.
  2. If using, add the chopped pecans and sprinkle the topping over the apples.
Bake and Cool
  1. Bake the bars for about 45-50 minutes or until the edges are golden and the center is set.
  2. Let it cool before serving.
Make the Caramel Sauce
  1. In a saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Heat until it turns amber.
  2. Remove from heat and carefully stir in the heavy cream, butter, and salt.
Serve
  1. Drizzle the caramel sauce over the cooled bars before cutting into squares.
  2. Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Use full-fat cream cheese for best flavor, and feel free to adjust spices to your preference.