Go Back
Imagine sinking your fork into a rich, creamy cheesecake layered atop a buttery graham cracker crust, all crowned with luscious caramel and sweet, tart apple pieces. This is not just a dessert; this is an experience waiting to happen. Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are a delightful fusion of flavors that brings together the velvety smoothness of cheesecake, the warm sweetness of caramel, and the bright, crisp notes of fresh apples.

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Dive into the delicious world of Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars, a perfect treat combining creamy cheesecake, sweet caramel, and tart apple pieces. This recipe offers a simple step-by-step guide to create a scrumptious dessert ideal for any occasion, from family gatherings to cozy nights at home. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a homemade caramel drizzle, these bars promise to be a showstopper. Perfect for bakers of all skill levels, get ready to impress with this delightful dessert!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

For the Crust:

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

⅓ cup granulated sugar

½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

16 oz cream cheese, softened

½ cup granulated sugar

¼ cup brown sugar, packed

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

3 large eggs

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

2 cups peeled and diced apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)

For the Caramel Sauce:

1 cup sugar

6 tablespoons unsalted butter

½ cup heavy cream

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Pinch of salt

For the Topping:

½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Extra caramel sauce for drizzle

Instructions
 

Prepare the Crust:

    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then remove and let cool slightly.

      Make the Filling:

        In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined. Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Sprinkle in the ground cinnamon and fold in the diced apples gently.

          Combine Layers:

            Pour the cheesecake filling over the pre-baked crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Place it back into the oven and bake for an additional 30–35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Remove from oven and let it cool to room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or until firm.

              Prepare the Caramel Sauce:

                While the cheesecake is chilling, make the caramel sauce. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar, stirring constantly until it turns a deep amber color. Carefully whisk in the butter until melted, then gradually add the heavy cream, whisking continuously until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and pinch of salt. Allow to cool slightly.

                  Serve:

                    Once the cheesecake has set, remove it from the refrigerator. Cut into bars and drizzle with the prepared caramel sauce. If desired, sprinkle with chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy finish.

                      Enjoy:

                        Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Enjoy your delicious Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars!

                          Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 30 min | 4 hrs | 12 servings