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Apple Caramel Cheesecake Bars

Apple Caramel Cheesecake Bars

  • Author: Sarah
  • Total Time: 3 hours 5 minutes (including chilling time)
  • Yield: 12 bars 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free substitutions)

Description

Apple Caramel Cheesecake Bars combine a buttery graham cracker crust with a creamy cheesecake layer, tender spiced apples, and a luscious caramel drizzle. This rich, comforting dessert is perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or a cozy treat any time you crave the perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 6 tablespoons butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling

  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Apple Mixture

  • 3 cups apples (preferably tart varieties like Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and diced (peeling optional)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Topping

  • 1/2 cup caramel sauce (regular or salted)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until evenly combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch pan. Bake for about 8 minutes until lightly golden. Remove and set aside to cool slightly.
  2. Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract. Aim for a silky, lump-free batter.
  3. Prepare the Apple Mixture: Peel (optional), core, and dice the apples into bite-size pieces. Toss them gently with cinnamon and nutmeg until evenly coated.
  4. Assemble and Bake: Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the baked crust and spread evenly. Layer the apple mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer. Spoon the remaining cheesecake batter carefully over the apples to cover them. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the cheesecake is set and edges are slightly golden.
  5. Add the Caramel Drizzle: Allow the bars to cool to room temperature. Drizzle caramel sauce generously over the top. For best results, chill the bars so the caramel firms slightly before slicing.

Notes

  • Ensure cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature to avoid lumps in the batter.
  • Use firm, tart apples like Granny Smith for texture and flavor balance.
  • Mix cheesecake batter just until combined to maintain a smooth, airy texture.
  • To prevent cracking, bake cheesecake bars in a water bath or place a pan of water in the oven to maintain moisture.
  • Chill bars in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours before cutting for clean slices.
  • Optional variations: add chopped pecans or walnuts, use gluten-free crumbs/flour, add extra spices like clove or allspice, or use salted caramel sauce.
  • Apple skins can be left on for extra fiber and color.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bar (1/12th of recipe)
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 22g
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: apple dessert, cheesecake bars, caramel dessert, autumn recipe, gluten-free dessert, spiced apples

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