These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are a sweet treat full of creamy cheesecake and tasty apple pieces. Topped with rich caramel, they’re perfect for fall or any time you crave something special!
Making these bars is simple and fun! I love sharing them with friends, and trust me, they disappear fast. Just remember to grab a napkin for the sticky caramel—it’s worth it! 🍏🍮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: These form the base of our dessert. If you can’t find them, you can substitute with crushed digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even crushed pretzels for a salty twist.
Apples: Granny Smith apples are great for tartness, while Fuji apples offer sweetness. Feel free to mix your favorite apples or use other varieties like Honeycrisp or Golden Delicious depending on your taste.
Cream Cheese: This is key to achieving that creamy cheesecake texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using Neufchâtel cheese, which has less fat but still provides a rich flavor.
Sour Cream: This adds moisture and tang. If you’re lactose intolerant, try using dairy-free sour cream or yogurt. Greek yogurt can also be a thicker substitute.
Butter: Unsalted butter is used for better control of saltiness. If you prefer, you can use coconut oil or a plant-based butter for a dairy-free version!
What’s the Best Way to Ensure a Creamy Cheesecake Layer?
To achieve that smooth and creamy texture in your cheesecake, it’s crucial to prepare the cream cheese correctly. Start with room temperature cream cheese, as this mixes in much better than cold cheese.
- Beat the cream cheese until it’s completely smooth before adding any other ingredients.
- Incorporate eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined to avoid overmixing, which can introduce too much air.
- Add the sour cream and flour last, mixing gently until everything is smooth.
By following these tips, your cheesecake layer will be light and creamy—perfect for these delicious bars! Enjoy your baking! 🍏🍰
Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the Apples:
- 3 cups peeled, diced apples (such as Granny Smith or Fuji)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
For the Crumble Topping:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For Serving:
- Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade), for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time and around 45-50 minutes of baking time, plus at least 3 hours to chill in the fridge. You’ll be rewarded with delicious, creamy, and indulgent cheesecake bars after a little wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup of granulated sugar using a fork until fully combined. Then, press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking pan to form an even layer. Bake for 8-10 minutes until it’s nice and set, then remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly.
2. Cook the Apples:
While the crust is cooling, grab a skillet and melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add in your diced apples, along with 1/4 cup of brown sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Sauté these for about 5-7 minutes, until the apples are tender but still retain their shape. Once done, set the apple mixture aside to cool.
3. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese using an electric mixer until it’s completely smooth. Then, add 2/3 cup of granulated sugar and mix until well combined. Next, beat in the eggs one at a time, being careful not to overmix. Stir in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and 1/4 cup of flour until everything is smooth and creamy.
4. Assemble the Bars:
Time to put it all together! Spread half of the cheesecake mixture evenly over the cooled crust. Then, layer the sautéed apple mixture evenly on top. Finally, carefully spread the remaining cheesecake mixture over the apples, smoothing it out to cover everything nicely.
5. Prepare the Crumble Topping:
In a separate bowl, mix together the crumble topping ingredients: 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/2 cup flour, and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. Use a pastry cutter or a fork to cut in the cold, cubed butter until the mixture becomes crumbly. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the cheesecake layer.
6. Bake the Bars:
Now, bake the assembled pan in your preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the center is set and the crumble on top is golden brown.
7. Cool and Chill:
Once done, remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature. After it’s cooled down, pop it in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours, or until it’s fully set. This step is important for ensuring clean cuts!
8. Serve:
When you’re ready to serve, cut the chilled bars into squares. Drizzle a generous amount of caramel sauce over each bar. Enjoy these delectable, rich Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars that are sure to impress!
Happy baking! 🍏🍰
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Fuji are great choices for their balance of tartness and sweetness, you can use any apples you prefer. Honeycrisp and Golden Delicious also work well for a sweeter flavor.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just make sure to keep them tightly sealed to maintain freshness!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! To make your Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars gluten-free, simply use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs and ensure that your other ingredients (like flour and caramel sauce) are also gluten-free.
Can I Freeze the Bars?
Yes, these bars can be frozen! Once completely cooled, cut them into squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying!