These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are a cozy dessert that combines creamy cheesecake with sweet apple chunks and a drizzle of rich caramel. Perfect for sharing with friends!
They remind me of autumn—crisp apples and warm spices make my kitchen smell amazing while they bake. I love to enjoy them with a cup of coffee; it feels like a warm hug! ☕🍏
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: I highly recommend using Granny Smith apples for their tartness, which balances the sweetness of the cheesecake. If you can’t find them, try Fuji or Honeycrisp apples for a sweeter option.
Cream Cheese: Regular cream cheese works best, but if you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese. Just keep in mind it might not be as creamy as the regular version.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon is essential for that warm autumn flavor. If you want to switch it up, consider using apple pie spice, which has added nutmeg and allspice.
Caramel Sauce: You can use store-bought caramel for convenience. If you prefer homemade, a simple caramel can be made by melting sugar and butter together. It tastes fantastic and elevates the bars!
How Do You Achieve a Creamy Filling?
The key to a dreamy cheesecake filling is to blend the cream cheese until it’s completely smooth before adding other ingredients. If you beat cold cream cheese, you’ll end up with lumps. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature. Here’s how:
- Start with softened cream cheese; this takes about 30 minutes out of the fridge.
- Use a hand or stand mixer on medium speed to whip it until creamy and fluffy.
- Add the sugar and vanilla gradually, mixing just until combined.
This method ensures that your filling turns out perfectly smooth and delicious! Also, avoid overmixing after adding the egg to help prevent cracks in your cheesecake bars.
How to Make Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust and Crumble:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups peeled and chopped apples (preferably Granny Smith or a tart apple)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
For the Topping:
- Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade), for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 20 minutes of prep time, followed by around 40 to 45 minutes of baking. After baking, you’ll want to allow the bars to cool for about 2 hours in the fridge before serving. So, all in all, you’re looking at about 3 hours and 5 minutes until you can enjoy your delicious bars!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. If you leave some overhang, it’ll be super easy to lift out the bars later!
2. Make the Crust:
In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Then stir in the melted butter until you have a crumbly mixture. Take about two-thirds of this mixture and press it evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. This will form a lovely crust!
3. Prepare the Filling:
Now onto the creamy filling! In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand or stand mixer until it’s smooth and creamy. Add in the granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and egg, mixing until combined and fluffy.
4. Add the Apples:
In a separate bowl, take those chopped apples and toss them with the cinnamon and a tablespoon of flour until evenly covered. This helps to keep the apples from becoming too soggy. Gently fold the apple mixture into the cream cheese mixture until just combined.
5. Assemble the Bars:
Spread the creamy apple filling evenly over the crust in the pan. Don’t forget to sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture evenly over the top! This will give your bars a crunch on top.
6. Bake:
Pop the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You want the top to be golden brown and the filling to be set but slightly jiggly in the center.
7. Cool and Refrigerate:
Once baked, take the pan out of the oven and let it cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. To finish setting up the cheesecake bars, refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
8. Serve:
When you’re ready to serve, lift the bars out using the parchment paper overhang. Cut them into squares and drizzle generously with caramel sauce. Enjoy these tasty Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are recommended for their tartness, you can use other varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp if you prefer a sweeter flavor. Just make sure they’re peeled and chopped for the filling!
How Can I Store Leftover Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To enjoy them later, you can eat them cold or warm them up in the microwave for a few seconds.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! To make gluten-free Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. Just ensure the other ingredients, like the baking powder, are also gluten-free.
Can I Freeze Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars?
Yes, you can freeze these bars! Once they are completely cooled and set, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place them in a freezer-safe container. They will last for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.