Why make this recipe

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are the perfect dessert to impress your family and friends. They combine the creamy goodness of cheesecake with the fresh, sweet flavor of apples and a rich caramel drizzle. These bars are easy to make and are great for any occasion. Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a birthday party, or just a sweet treat to enjoy at home, everyone will love these delicious treats!

How to make Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Ingredients:

1 cup graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
2 cups peeled and diced apples
1 cup caramel sauce
1 teaspoon cinnamon

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust.
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Fold in the diced apples and cinnamon, then pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust.
Drizzle caramel sauce on top.
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until set. Allow to cool before cutting into bars. Serve with extra caramel sauce if desired.

How to serve Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Serve these Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars chilled or at room temperature. They can be enjoyed as they are, but adding a drizzle of caramel sauce on top enhances their flavor. Pair them with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an even more indulgent treat.

How to store Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them for a longer time, consider freezing them. Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Tips to make Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for added flavor complexity.
Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to ensure a smooth batter.
Feel free to adjust the amount of caramel sauce based on your sweetness preference.
If you want to add nuts for some crunch, chopped pecans or walnuts would work well.

variation

You can switch up the flavors by adding other ingredients like chocolate chips or nuts. For a fall twist, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Yes, store-bought caramel sauce works great and saves time.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make these bars a day or two in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

Can I use different fruits?

Yes, other fruits like blueberries or peaches can be used instead of apples for a different flavor. Just make sure to adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the fruits you choose.