Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Why Make This Recipe

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are a delightful dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet and tart flavors of apples. Topped with luscious caramel, these bars make a perfect treat for family gatherings, holidays, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. They’re easy to prepare and will impress anyone who takes a bite!

How to Make Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs
• 2 cups peeled and diced apples
• 1 cup caramel sauce
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a crust.
3. In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Fold in the diced apples, caramel sauce, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
5. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust in the pan.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow to cool before cutting into bars. Serve with additional caramel sauce if desired.

How to Serve Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

These cheesecake bars are best served chilled or at room temperature. Cut them into squares and arrange them on a platter. You can drizzle some extra caramel sauce on top for that nice finishing touch. Adding a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream would also take the presentation and flavor to the next level!

How to Store Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

To store leftover bars, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about a week. If you’d like to keep them longer, you can also freeze them. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing them in the freezer.

Tips to Make Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

• Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for a smoother batter.
• Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and flavor.
• Don’t skip letting them cool completely before cutting; this helps in getting clean edges.

Variation

You can add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the filling for extra crunch. Additionally, consider using different types of apples or spices depending on your taste preferences.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Yes, store-bought caramel sauce works perfectly for this recipe and saves time.

2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs to make a gluten-free version of these bars.

3. How do I know when the cheesecake bars are done?
The bars are done when the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. However, remember that it will continue to firm up as it cools.