Name: Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 80 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (for the crust).; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted (for the crust).; ¼ cup granulated sugar (for the crust).; ¼ tsp cinnamon (for the crust).; 16 oz cream cheese, softened (for the cheesecake layer).; ½ cup granulated sugar (for the cheesecake layer).; 2 large eggs (for the cheesecake layer).; 1 tsp vanilla extract (for the cheesecake layer).; 3 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced (for the apple layer).; 2 tbsp lemon juice (for the apple layer).; ¼ cup brown sugar (for the apple layer).; 1 tsp cinnamon (for the apple layer).; ¼ tsp nutmeg (for the apple layer).; ½ cup all-purpose flour (for the streusel topping).; ¼ cup brown sugar (for the streusel topping).; ¼ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed (for the streusel topping).; ¼ cup chopped pecans (optional, for the streusel topping).; 1 cup granulated sugar (for the caramel sauce).; ¼ cup water (for the caramel sauce).; ½ cup heavy cream (for the caramel sauce).; 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for the caramel sauce).; ¼ tsp salt (for the caramel sauce).

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are the perfect fall dessert, combining creamy cheesecake with tart Granny Smith apples, a crumbly streusel topping, and a drizzle of rich caramel sauce. The crust is made from graham cracker crumbs, while the cheesecake layer is smooth and rich. The apple layer adds a fresh, fruity element that perfectly complements the decadent caramel. These bars are perfect for serving at fall gatherings, holiday parties, or simply as a sweet indulgence for any occasion!

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are a delicious fusion of creamy cheesecake, tart apples, and rich caramel, making them the perfect dessert for fall. These bars begin with a buttery graham cracker crust, followed by a smooth cheesecake layer, a fresh apple topping, and a crumbly streusel. The apples, spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, add a fruity brightness that pairs perfectly with the rich caramel sauce drizzled on top. Whether you're making them for a family gathering or as a special treat, these cheesecake bars will quickly become a fall favorite.

INGREDIENTS

Graham cracker crumbs: 2 cups (for the crust)
Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup, melted (for the crust)
Granulated sugar: 1/4 cup (for the crust)
Cinnamon: 1/4 tsp (for the crust)
Cream cheese: 16 oz, softened (for the cheesecake layer)
Granulated sugar: 1/2 cup (for the cheesecake layer)
Eggs: 2 large (for the cheesecake layer)
Vanilla extract: 1 tsp (for the cheesecake layer)
Granny Smith apples: 3 medium, peeled and diced (for the apple layer)
Lemon juice: 2 tbsp (for the apple layer)
Brown sugar: 1/4 cup (for the apple layer)
Cinnamon: 1 tsp (for the apple layer)
Nutmeg: 1/4 tsp (for the apple layer)
All-purpose flour: 1/2 cup (for the streusel)
Brown sugar: 1/4 cup (for the streusel)
Unsalted butter: 1/4 cup, cold and cubed (for the streusel)
Chopped pecans: 1/4 cup, optional (for the streusel)
Granulated sugar: 1 cup (for the caramel sauce)
Water: 1/4 cup (for the caramel sauce)
Heavy cream: 1/2 cup (for the caramel sauce)
Unsalted butter: 2 tbsp (for the caramel sauce)
Salt: 1/4 tsp (for the caramel sauce)

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:: Preheat oven to 350°F and line a 9x13-inch pan with parchment paper.
Step 2:: Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon for the crust. Press the mixture into the pan and bake for 10 minutes.
Step 3:: Beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Stir in vanilla and pour the mixture over the cooled crust.
Step 4:: Toss diced apples with lemon juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Spread the apple mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer.
Step 5:: For the streusel topping, mix flour and brown sugar, then cut in cold butter until crumbly. Stir in pecans if using. Sprinkle over the apple layer.
Step 6:: Bake for 45-50 minutes until the streusel is golden and the cheesecake is set. Let the bars cool completely before cutting.
Step 7:: For the caramel sauce, heat sugar and water in a saucepan until the sugar dissolves and turns amber. Carefully whisk in cream, then stir in butter and salt. Let it cool slightly before drizzling over the bars.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serve the bars chilled, drizzled with warm caramel sauce for the best flavor.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Helpful Notes

For easier slicing, refrigerate the bars for at least an hour before cutting.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

To add a deeper flavor, use salted caramel instead of regular caramel for drizzling over the bars.

Why Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Are the Perfect Fall Dessert

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate fall dessert because they combine rich, creamy cheesecake with the tartness of fresh apples and the indulgence of caramel. The streusel topping adds a buttery crunch that makes each bite satisfying and flavorful. Whether you’re enjoying these bars at a holiday gathering or as a special treat, they capture the essence of fall in every bite.

FAQs

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, you can make them a day ahead and store them in the fridge. Just wait to drizzle the caramel until just before serving.

Can I freeze these bars?

Yes, the bars can be frozen after baking and cooling. Wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Summary

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are a decadent fall dessert that combines layers of creamy cheesecake, tart Granny Smith apples, a buttery graham cracker crust, and a crumbly streusel topping. Drizzled with homemade caramel sauce, these bars are the perfect indulgence for any fall occasion. The smooth, creamy texture of the cheesecake complements the tartness of the apples, while the streusel topping adds a satisfying crunch. Whether you're serving them for a holiday gathering or enjoying them at home, these cheesecake bars are sure to be a hit!