🖋️ Written by Emma
Why Make This Recipe
Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat that combines the creamy goodness of cheesecake with the sweet and tangy flavors of apples and caramel. This dessert is perfect for gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply a cozy night at home. These bars are easy to make and will impress your family and friends with their rich flavors and beautiful presentation.
How to Make Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 2 cups diced apples (peeled if desired)
- 1 cup caramel sauce
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and vanilla, mixing until combined.
- Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Fold in diced apples and cinnamon.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust in the baking pan.
- Drizzle caramel sauce on top and use a knife to swirl it gently into the cheesecake mixture.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes or until set.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.
How to Serve Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
Serve these delicious bars chilled or at room temperature. They pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For an extra touch, drizzle more caramel sauce over the top just before serving.
How to Store Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
Keep the cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the fridge. They can stay fresh for about 5-7 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Wrap each bar tightly with plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months.
Tips to Make Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
- Use fresh, firm apples for the best flavor and texture.
- Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- Don’t skip the swirling of the caramel sauce; it adds a lovely look and taste.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to prevent them from falling apart.
Variation
You can experiment with different apples, such as Granny Smith for a tart flavor or Fuji for a sweeter taste. Adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts can provide extra crunch.
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Yes, store-bought caramel sauce works perfectly for this recipe!
2. Do I have to peel the apples?
Peeling the apples is optional. If you like a bit of texture, feel free to leave the skin on.
3. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars are great to make a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and vanilla, mixing until combined.
- Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Fold in diced apples and cinnamon.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust in the baking pan.
- Drizzle caramel sauce on top and use a knife to swirl it gently into the cheesecake mixture.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes or until set.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.
