These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are a sweet treat that combines creamy cheesecake with yummy apples and a drizzle of caramel. They’re perfect for sharing or enjoying all by yourself!
Honestly, every bite feels like fall! The crunchy crust and smooth filling just make me happy. I always keep some in the fridge for a quick dessert fix! 🍏🍮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: These are the base of your crust. If you’re out of graham crackers, you can use crushed cookies like digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers. For gluten-free options, try gluten-free graham crackers or ground almonds.
Apples: I recommend using tart apples like Granny Smith for a balanced flavor. If you prefer sweeter apples, Honeycrisp or Fuji are great choices. If fresh apples are hard to find, you could use canned pie filling instead!
Cream Cheese: This is crucial for the cheesecake layer. If you need a dairy-free option, consider using vegan cream cheese. However, the texture might be a bit different, so adjust the sweetness as needed.
Brown Sugar: This gives the crumb topping a nice depth. You can use white sugar in a pinch, but brown sugar adds a bit more flavor. If you’re looking for healthier options, coconut sugar works well, too!
What’s the Best Way to Ensure a Creamy Cheesecake Layer?
Getting the cheesecake smooth and creamy is key! Start with softened cream cheese; this ensures it blends easily without lumps. Here are the steps:
- Let your cream cheese sit at room temperature for at least an hour before mixing.
- Beat it alone first until fully smooth, then add the sugar. Mix well before adding eggs one by one, ensuring each is fully incorporated.
- Add the vanilla last for an extra flavor boost. Pour it over the apple layer gently, so it doesn’t mix together.
The goal is a fluffy filling, so keep mixing on low speed to avoid incorporating too much air, which can create cracks!
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 Apple Layer:
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Crumb Topping:
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Caramel Drizzle:
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time and 40-45 minutes of baking time. Don’t forget to factor in at least 3 hours for cooling in the fridge! So, you can expect to spend roughly 4 hours from start to table, but most of that time is just letting it chill and set.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang on the sides. This makes it super easy to lift your cheesecake bars out later!
2. Make the Crust:
In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Stir until everything is evenly blended and the crumbs are moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Bake it in the oven for about 8-10 minutes until it’s set and lightly golden. Once baked, let it cool for a moment!
3. Prepare the Apple Layer:
Take your sliced apples and toss them in a bowl with the lemon juice, cinnamon, and sugar. This will give the apples a lovely flavor! Spread the apple mixture evenly on top of the cooled crust.
4. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s nice and smooth. Next, add the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing everything until well combined. Carefully pour this creamy filling over the apple layer and spread it out so it’s even.
5. Prepare the Crumb Topping:
In another bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, oats, cinnamon, and salt. Drizzle in the melted butter and mix until it resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle this crumb topping evenly over the cheesecake layer, spreading as needed.
6. Bake It Up:
Slide your pan back into the hot oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the edges are set, and the center is just slightly jiggly but mostly firm. Keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking!
7. Cool and Chill:
When you take the pan out, allow it to cool completely at room temperature. Once cool, cover and refrigerate for a minimum of 3 hours. This step is crucial for letting those flavors meld together perfectly!
8. Add the Caramel Drizzle:
Just before you’re ready to serve, drizzle the caramel sauce generously over the chilled bars. This adds a dreamy touch!
9. Cut and Serve:
Carefully lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Cut them into squares and enjoy these delicious treats chilled. They’re sure to be a hit!
Enjoy your creamy, fruity, and sweet Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars, perfect for any gathering or as a lovely treat for yourself! 🍏🍰
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples provide a nice tartness, you can use any variety that you prefer, like Honeycrisp or Fuji, depending on your taste. Just make sure they’re firm for the best texture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. To enjoy them at their best, serve chilled, but you can let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving for a softer texture!
Can I Make These Bars Ahead of Time?
Yes! These cheesecake bars can be made a day ahead. Just bake, cool, and refrigerate them. They taste even better after a night in the fridge, allowing the flavors to meld together!
What If I Don’t Have Graham Crackers?
No worries! You can substitute with crushed digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even ground almonds for a gluten-free option. Just adjust the sugar slightly if using a sweeter cookie.