Print

Apple Caramel Cheesecake Bars

Apple Caramel Cheesecake Bars
Print Recipe

Apple Caramel Cheesecake Bars combine a buttery crust with a smooth, creamy cheesecake filling studded with tender apple pieces and warm spices, all topped with a luscious caramel drizzle. This dessert offers a perfect balance of tart apples, sweet caramel, and rich cheesecake, making it ideal for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or a delightful snack any time.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling

  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup sour cream

Fruit and Spice Mix

  • 2 cups peeled and diced apples (preferably Granny Smith)
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

Topping

  • 1/2 cup caramel sauce (warm or room temperature)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine the flour, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until crumbly. Press this mixture evenly into a lined 9×9-inch baking pan. Bake for 15 minutes or until golden and firm to create a sturdy base for the cheesecake bars.
  2. Mix the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in vanilla extract and sour cream until the filling is velvety and fully combined.
  3. Add the Apples and Spices: Toss the diced apples with cinnamon and nutmeg to coat evenly. Gently fold the spiced apples into the cheesecake filling, ensuring the fruit is well distributed throughout the batter.
  4. Assemble and Bake: Pour the cheesecake filling with apples over the pre-baked crust, spreading it out evenly. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still slightly jiggles. This will result in a creamy texture after cooling.
  5. Drizzle with Caramel: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, drizzle warm or room-temperature caramel sauce generously over the top as a finishing touch.

Notes

  • Use room temperature cream cheese and butter for a smoother batter and even baking.
  • Mix ingredients just until combined to avoid overmixing and cracking.
  • Cut and add apples last to prevent browning and maintain moisture.
  • Bake cheesecake bars in a water bath if possible to reduce cracking and keep filling creamy.
  • Chill bars completely before slicing to ensure clean edges and proper texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple cheesecake bars, caramel cheesecake bars, apple dessert bars, creamy cheesecake dessert, easy cheesecake bars, fall dessert bars, caramel apple cheesecake

Find it online: https://emillycooks.com/apple-caramel-cheesecake-bars/