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Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 132 reviews

These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars combine a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake layer, spiced apple topping, crumbly pecan streusel, and a rich homemade caramel sauce for an irresistible dessert that’s perfect for fall gatherings or any time you crave a decadent treat.

Ingredients

Scale

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
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Apple Layer

  • 3 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp nutmeg

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)

Caramel Sauce

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make removal easier.
  2. Make the Crust: In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, granulated sugar, and cinnamon until the mixture is well incorporated. Press this evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a firm crust.
  3. Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then remove and let it cool completely while you prepare the next layers. Cooling prevents the cheesecake from melting into the crust.
  4. Prepare the Cheesecake Layer: Beat the softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure a smooth batter. Stir in the vanilla extract. Pour this cheesecake mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
  5. Make the Apple Layer: In a separate bowl, toss the peeled and diced Granny Smith apples with lemon juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This not only flavors the apples but also keeps them from browning. Spread this apple mixture uniformly over the cheesecake layer.
  6. Create the Streusel Topping: Mix the flour and brown sugar in a bowl. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in chopped pecans if using to add a crunchy texture. Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the apple layer.
  7. Bake the Bars: Place the pan back in the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the streusel topping is golden and the cheesecake is set without jiggling.
  8. Cool and Chill: Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature to set properly, then refrigerate them for at least 2 hours to firm up before slicing.
  9. Make the Caramel Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar and water, stirring until sugar dissolves. Increase the heat to medium-high and cook without stirring until the mixture turns a deep amber color, about 8 to 10 minutes. Remove from heat and carefully whisk in the heavy cream – the caramel will bubble vigorously, so be cautious. Stir in the butter and salt until smooth. Let the sauce cool slightly.
  10. Serve: Cut the chilled bars into squares. Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the bars just before serving to add a luscious finishing touch.

Notes

  • Allow the bars to cool completely before refrigerating to prevent the cheesecake from cracking.
  • Use Granny Smith apples for a tart flavor that balances the sweetness.
  • For a nut-free version, omit the pecans in the streusel topping.
  • Store leftover bars in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 4 days.
  • Caramel sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator; warm gently before drizzling.

Keywords: caramel apple cheesecake bars, apple dessert bars, homemade caramel sauce, cheesecake bars, fall dessert, apple streusel bars

Find it online: https://victoriablair.com/caramel-apple-cheesecake-bars-recipe/