Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are the perfect blend of creamy cheesecake, sweet apples, and luscious caramel, making them an irresistible fall treat. These bars are easy to make and ideal for gatherings, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday party. With a graham cracker crust and a delectable apple filling, they capture the essence of autumn in every bite. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will surely become a staple in your dessert repertoire!
Why You’ll Love This Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
There are countless reasons to adore these Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars. First, they combine the rich flavors of cream cheese and caramel with the tartness of apples, creating a perfect balance. Second, they are incredibly easy to make, making them a great choice for novice bakers or those looking for an easy caramel apple cheesecake recipe. Third, they can be served warm or chilled, making them versatile for any occasion. You’ll also love their beautiful presentation; the caramel topping and chopped nuts make these bars visually appealing. Plus, they are a great way to use fresh fall apples, and you can easily customize them with various toppings. Finally, they are perfect for sharing with friends and family, ensuring everyone leaves with a smile.
Ingredients for Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
Gather these items:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs: For the base.
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar: For sweetness.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted): For binding.
- 16 oz cream cheese (softened): The main component.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: For sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: For flavor.
- 3 large eggs: For binding.
- 2 cups apples (peeled, cored, and diced): About 2 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well).
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: To prevent browning.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: For warmth.
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg: For added flavor.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: For sweetness.
- 1 cup caramel sauce: Store-bought or homemade.
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional): For crunch (e.g., pecans or walnuts).
How to Make Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Step 2: In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
- Step 3: Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust.
- Step 4: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Step 5: In a medium bowl, combine the diced apples, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar. Toss until the apples are well coated.
- Step 6: In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Step 7: Gradually add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
- Step 8: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Step 9: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
- Step 10: Spoon the apple mixture over the cheesecake layer, spreading it gently to distribute the apples.
- Step 11: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly golden. The center may still have a slight jiggle; it will firm up as it cools.
- Step 12: Remove the bars from the oven and let them cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Step 13: Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
- Step 14: Once chilled, drizzle the caramel sauce over the top of the cheesecake bars. If desired, sprinkle with chopped nuts for added texture.
- Step 15: Use a sharp knife to cut the bars into squares. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy your delicious Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars!
Pro Tips for the Perfect Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
Keep these in mind:
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened for easy mixing.
- Use fresh apples for the best flavor.
- Chill the bars for optimal texture before serving.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
Best Ways to Serve Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are perfect for various occasions. Serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent dessert. They also pair beautifully with a hot cup of spiced cider or coffee, making them an ideal choice for fall gatherings. If you’re feeling creative, try adding a sprinkle of caramel apple cheesecake dessert ideas like chocolate shavings or a drizzle of chocolate sauce over the top.

How to Store and Reheat Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
To store your Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to one week. For meal prep, consider making them in advance and chilling them thoroughly. If you want to reheat them, place them in a preheated oven at 250°F (120°C) for about 10 minutes, just until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions About Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
What is a caramel apple cheesecake bar?
A caramel apple cheesecake bar is a delicious dessert that combines a creamy cheesecake filling with diced apples and a rich caramel topping, all situated on a graham cracker crust.
Can I make caramel apple cheesecake bars ahead of time?
Yes! These bars can be made a day ahead. They actually taste better after chilling overnight, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
How do I avoid common mistakes with caramel apple cheesecake bars?
To avoid common mistakes, ensure your cream cheese is softened and avoid overmixing the eggs to prevent cracks. Also, let the bars cool completely before cutting.
Variations of Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars You Can Try
There are several fun variations to explore with these Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars. You can make delicious caramel-infused apple cheesecake bars by adding more caramel into the filling. For those looking for a no-bake option, try using a no-bake cheesecake filling instead. If you’re catering to dietary preferences, consider making gluten-free caramel apple cheesecake bars by swapping out the graham crackers for a gluten-free alternative. Each variation brings a new twist to this classic fall treat!
Print
Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars: The Ultimate Fall Delight
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars A Delicious Fall Treat
Ingredients
- For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs: For the base.
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar: For sweetness.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted): For binding.
- For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese (softened): The main component.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: For sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: For flavor.
- 3 large eggs: For binding.
- For the Apple Filling:
- 2 cups apples (peeled, cored, and diced): About 2 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well).
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: To prevent browning.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: For warmth.
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg: For added flavor.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: For sweetness.
- For the Caramel Topping:
- 1 cup caramel sauce: Store-bought or homemade.
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional): For crunch (e.g., pecans or walnuts).
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- In a medium bowl, combine the diced apples, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar. Toss until the apples are well coated.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
- Spoon the apple mixture over the cheesecake layer, spreading it gently to distribute the apples.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly golden. The center may still have a slight jiggle; it will firm up as it cools.
- Remove the bars from the oven and let them cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
- Once chilled, drizzle the caramel sauce over the top of the cheesecake bars. If desired, sprinkle with chopped nuts for added texture.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the bars into squares. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy your delicious Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars!
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened for easy mixing.
- Use fresh apples for the best flavor.
- Chill the bars for optimal texture before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Caramel, Apple, Cheesecake, Bars, Fall Treat









