Why Make This Recipe

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat that combines the rich creaminess of cheesecake with the sweet taste of apples and caramel. This recipe is perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or just a family dessert night. With its mix of textures and flavors, everyone will love this sweet, indulgent dessert.

How to Make Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Ingredients

2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup granulated sugar
3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup sour cream
4 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups diced apples
1 cup caramel sauce
1 teaspoon cinnamon

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until combined. Press this mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the sour cream, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully blended.
Fold in the diced apples and cinnamon into the cheesecake mixture, then pour it over the crust in the baking pan.
Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the cheesecake mixture and swirl it gently with a knife.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes or until the center is set.
Allow to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before cutting into bars.
Serve with additional caramel sauce if desired.

How to Serve Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Cut the bars into squares and place them on a serving plate. You can add extra caramel sauce on top for an added touch of sweetness. These bars pair well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They make a wonderful dessert for any occasion.

How to Store Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. These cheesecake bars stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to a month. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing.

Tips to Make Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing for a smoother texture.
Choose firm apples, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, for the best flavor and texture.
Drizzle the caramel sauce just before serving to keep it fresh and gooey.

Variation

For a different twist, you can add nuts like chopped pecans or walnuts to the crust for crunch, or mix in some chocolate chips into the cheesecake filling for a sweet surprise.

FAQs

1. Can I use a store-bought graham cracker crust?
Yes, you can use a pre-made graham cracker crust if you want to save time. Just make sure it fits in a 9×13 inch pan.

2. Can I use a different type of fruit?
Absolutely! You can substitute the apples with pears, cherries, or even berries for a different flavor.

3. How do I know when the cheesecake bars are done baking?
The cheesecake should be set in the center but may still jiggle a little when you move the pan. It will firm up as it cools.

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars