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Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Delightful dessert bars combining creamy cheesecake, tart apples, and sweet caramel, capturing the essence of fall in every bite.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 16 bars
Course: Baking, Dessert
Cuisine: American, Fall
Calories: 200
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Crust
  • 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs Provides a satisfying crunch.
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted Use a high-quality brand for the best taste.
  • 0.25 cup granulated sugar Enhances the sweetness of the crust.
Cheesecake Filling
  • 16 ounces cream cheese, room temperature Check for full-fat versions for a creamier experience.
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature Use room temperature for a smoother batter.
  • 0.33 cup granulated sugar For the cheesecake filling.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Use pure vanilla for the best flavor.
  • 0.25 teaspoon kosher salt Balances the sweetness.
Apple Layer
  • 2 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and finely diced Their tartness contrasts the sweet filling.
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar Tossed with the apples for added sweetness.
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon Essential for that warm fall flavor.
  • 0.125 teaspoon ground nutmeg Just a pinch adds nuanced warmth.
Topping
  • 0.75 cup all-purpose flour Binds the topping together.
  • 0.25 cup light brown sugar, packed Adds a hint of caramel flavor.
  • 0.25 teaspoon kosher salt Enhances flavors in the topping.
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon Adds more delightful flavor.
  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted Forms a crumbly topping.
For Serving
  • Caramel sauce For drizzling.

Method
 

Preheat the Oven
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x9-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
Make the Crust
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until it resembles wet sand. Press into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
  1. Beat the cream cheese until smooth, then gradually add the eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until creamy and spread over the crust.
Apple Layer
  1. In a bowl, toss together diced apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Scatter this mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer.
Make the Topping
  1. Mix flour, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon together. Stir in melted butter until crumbly and sprinkle over the apple layer.
Bake
  1. Bake for 35-40 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the cheesecake is set, avoiding excessive jiggle in the center.
Cool and Chill
  1. Allow the bars to cool on a wire rack for 1 hour, then refrigerate for an additional hour before slicing.
Drizzle with Caramel
  1. Just before serving, drizzle the bars with caramel sauce.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Allow to thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.