Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Cheesecake is a beloved dessert that has taken many forms over the years, from the classic New York style to fruit-topped varieties, and even no-bake versions. Among these, cheesecake bars have gained immense popularity for their versatility and ease of preparation. Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are a delightful twist on the traditional cheesecake, combining the creamy richness of cheesecake with the seasonal flavors of caramel and apples. This recipe not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also evokes the cozy feelings of fall, making it a perfect addition to any gathering or holiday celebration.

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars, a sweet twist on classic cheesecake! These easy-to-make bars combine rich cream cheese, tart Granny Smith apples, warm spices, and a luscious caramel drizzle, creating a heavenly dessert experience. Perfect for potlucks, holiday celebrations, or cozy nights at home, these bars are visually appealing and full of comforting flavors. Try this recipe today to impress your friends and family with this seasonal treat!

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Ingredients

For the Crust:

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

⅓ cup granulated sugar

½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Layer:

16 oz cream cheese, softened

¾ cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

2 tsp lemon juice

For the Apple Filling:

2 medium apples (such as Granny Smith), peeled and diced

2 tbsp brown sugar

1 tsp cinnamon

1 tbsp lemon juice

For the Caramel Sauce:

½ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

¼ cup chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.

Prepare the Crust:

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are well coated and resemble wet sand. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan evenly. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then remove and let cool slightly.

Make the Cheesecake Layer:

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add granulated sugar and beat until well combined. Mix in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Add the vanilla extract and lemon juice, mixing just until combined.

Prepare the Apple Filling:

In a bowl, toss the diced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice until well-coated.

Assemble the Bars:

Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust, spreading it out evenly. Then, scoop the apple filling on top of the cheesecake layer. Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl the apples into the cheesecake layer to combine slightly without fully blending.

Bake:

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the edges are set and the center still has a slight jiggle. Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.

Add Caramel:

Once chilled, drizzle the caramel sauce over the top of the cheesecake bars. If desired, sprinkle with chopped pecans for added crunch.

Slice and Serve:

Lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Slice into squares or rectangles and serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy the delightful layers of flavor!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 30 min | 4 hours 15 min | 12 bars