Print

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

3.8 from 4 reviews

These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars combine a buttery crumbly crust with a creamy cheesecake layer topped with spiced Granny Smith apples and a crunchy oat streusel, finished with a drizzle of caramel sauce. Perfectly balanced with sweet and tangy flavors, these bars make an ideal dessert for autumn gatherings or anytime you crave a comforting sweet treat.

Ingredients

Crust

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
  • 1 cup butter, softened

Cheesecake Layer

  • 3 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Apple Topping

  • 3 Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and finely chopped (about 3 cups)
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Streusel Topping

  • 1 cup firmly packed brown sugar
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup quick cooking oats
  • 1/2 cup butter, softened

Finishing

  • 1/2 cup caramel topping (for drizzling after baking)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). This ensures a consistent temperature for baking the crust and layers evenly.
  2. Prepare Crust: In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups flour and 1/2 cup brown sugar. Cut in 1 cup softened butter using a pastry blender, food processor, or two forks until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press this mixture evenly into a greased or foil/parchment-lined 9x13-inch baking pan. Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly browned to set the crust.
  3. Make Cheesecake Layer: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 3/4 cup sugar using an electric mixer at medium speed until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition, then stir in 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract. Pour this cheesecake mixture evenly over the warm crust.
  4. Prepare Apple Topping: In a small bowl, combine the finely chopped apples with 2 tablespoons sugar, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg. Spread this apple mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer.
  5. Make Streusel Topping: In another small bowl, combine 1 cup brown sugar, 1 cup flour, and 1/2 cup oats. Add 1/2 cup softened butter and use your hands to thoroughly combine the ingredients until crumbly. Avoid using a food processor here as it will grind the oats too finely.
  6. Assemble and Bake: Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the apples. Bake the entire pan for 40-45 minutes or until the filling is set and the streusel is golden brown. Remove from the oven and let the bars cool to room temperature.
  7. Chill and Finish: Once cooled, refrigerate the bars for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 4 months. Before serving, drizzle with 1/2 cup caramel topping for a delicious finishing touch. Serve cold and enjoy!

Notes

  • You can substitute Granny Smith apples with other tart apples like Honeycrisp for a slightly different flavor.
  • To make cutting easier, chill the bars in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before slicing.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend compatible with baking.
  • Use high-quality caramel sauce or homemade caramel for the best flavor impact.
  • Keep the bars well covered in the refrigerator to prevent them from drying out.

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