These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars have a buttery graham crust, smooth cream cheese filling, soft apple pieces, and a caramel swirl on top. If you enjoy apple sweets, check some apple breakfast ideas for more simple apple recipes.
Why make this recipe
You get a creamy cheesecake with sweet apples and sticky caramel in one simple bar. It is easy to make, good for parties, and tastes like fall. The recipe uses common ingredients and little fuss.
How to make Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
You build the bars in one pan. Press the graham crust in the bottom, mix a smooth cream cheese filling, fold in diced apples, pour over the crust, and swirl caramel on top. For a drink that matches the caramel flavor, see this caramel macchiato pairing idea.
Ingredients :
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 2 cups diced apples (peeled)
- 1 cup caramel sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Directions :
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until combined. Press mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a crust.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Fold in the diced apples and cinnamon into the cream cheese mixture.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust in the baking dish. Drizzle caramel sauce on top, swirling it into the batter with a knife.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the center is set. Let it cool completely before cutting into bars.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature, drizzled with additional caramel if desired.
How to serve Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
Cut into bars and serve on a plate. You can add whipped cream or a little extra warm caramel on top. These bars work well chilled or at room temperature.
How to store Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
Keep the bars in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 4–5 days. To freeze, wrap bars individually and store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Tips to make Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
- Use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth filling.
- Dice apples small so they mix well into the batter.
- Press the crust firmly into the pan for an even base.
- Don’t overbake; the center should be set but slightly soft. The bars will firm as they cool.
- Swirl caramel gently so it looks pretty but stays in the batter.
Variation
- Add chopped pecans or walnuts on top for crunch.
- Use salted caramel for a sweet-and-salty taste.
- Stir in a little lemon zest for brightness.
- Swap in pear pieces for a different fruit flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen apples?
A: Fresh is best. If you use frozen, thaw and drain them well first.
Q: Do I need to peel the apples?
A: Peeling gives a smoother texture, but you can leave the peel on if you prefer.
Q: Can I make these in smaller pans?
A: Yes. Bake time may change. Check after 20–30 minutes if you use smaller pans.
Q: Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
A: Yes. Store-bought works well and saves time.
Q: How do I know when the bars are done?
A: The center should not be very jiggly. It will firm up as it cools.
Conclusion
For another take and extra tips, see the full recipe for Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars at The Girl Who Ate Everything. If you want a different version, try the Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars – Our Best Bites recipe for ideas.
Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients
For the crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake filling
- 3 packages cream cheese, softened (8 oz each) Use room temperature for a smooth filling
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs Be sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next
- 2 cups diced apples (peeled) Dice small for better mixing
- 1 cup caramel sauce Store-bought works well
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until combined. Press mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a crust.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Fold in the diced apples and cinnamon into the cream cheese mixture.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust in the baking dish. Drizzle caramel sauce on top, swirling it into the batter with a knife.
Baking
- Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the center is set. Let it cool completely before cutting into bars.
Serving
- Cut into bars and serve on a plate. You can add whipped cream or a little extra warm caramel on top. These bars work well chilled or at room temperature.