Introduction

These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars combine the rich creaminess of cheesecake with the sweet, tart flavor of apples and smooth caramel sauce. Perfect as a dessert or a special treat, they offer a delightful mix of textures and flavors in every bite.

Two square dessert bars are stacked on top of each other, each showing four layers: at the bottom, a crumbly, light brown crust; above that, a thick, creamy white cheesecake layer; then a smooth, light yellow caramel-like layer; and on top, a crumbly, golden-brown streusel. Thick, shiny caramel sauce drips down the sides, adding a sticky texture and rich amber color. They sit on a white marbled surface with a soft-focus background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

16 oz cream cheese
1/2 cup sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 apples, sliced
1 cup caramel sauce
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/3 cup butter, melted

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven. Combine the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter in a bowl, then press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a baking pan to form the crust.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Pour half of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the prepared graham cracker crust.
Step 4: Arrange the sliced apples on top of the cream cheese layer, then drizzle the caramel sauce over the apples.
Step 5: Pour the remaining cream cheese mixture over the apples and caramel topping, spreading it evenly to cover the entire pan.
Step 6: Bake the bars until the cheesecake layer is set and the top turns lightly golden, about 30-35 minutes.
Step 7: Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool to room temperature before placing them in the refrigerator for several hours to chill and set completely.
Step 8: Once chilled, slice the bars into squares and drizzle with additional caramel sauce before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice contrast against the sweet caramel and creamy cheesecake.
For extra crunch, sprinkle chopped nuts over the caramel layer before topping with the remaining cheesecake mixture.
Make your own caramel sauce or use store-bought for convenience—both work well.
If you prefer, swap the graham cracker crust for a spiced shortbread crust for a different flavor profile.

Storage

Store the caramel apple cheesecake bars covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, allow them to come to room temperature or warm slightly in a microwave for about 10 seconds to soften the caramel before serving.

How to Serve

Two square cheesecake bars are stacked on top of each other on a white marbled surface. Each bar has four layers: the bottom is a thick, crumbly brown crust; above it is a thick, smooth white cream cheese layer; followed by a medium-thick light golden caramel or apple filling; and the top layer is a crumbly streusel with a mix of light beige and golden colors. Glossy caramel sauce drips generously over the top and down the sides of both bars, adding shine and richness to the texture. The background is softly blurred, keeping the focus on the bars. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen apples for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh apples as frozen ones tend to release excess moisture, which can affect the texture of the bars.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, these bars are excellent when made a day ahead. Just keep them refrigerated until ready to serve to let the flavors meld and the cheesecake set properly.