I love this sweet bar. It has soft cream cheese, warm apple bits, and a thin crust. You can make it for a snack, a small party, or a cozy night. See a similar dish here: Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars.
why make this recipe
This bar is easy to make. It uses few parts and cooks fast. Kids like it. You can serve it warm or cool. It pairs well with fall treats like pies and warm drinks, for example this caramel apple pie.
how to make Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
You make a crust, then a soft cheese layer with apples, and bake. You will press crumbs for the base. You will beat the cheese and eggs until smooth. Then you fold in the apples and spice. Pour on the crust and bake. For a small change, you can use a pie topping idea from this apple pie.
Ingredients :
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups peeled and diced apples
- 1 cup caramel sauce
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
You can swap the crust for a cookie base. See a cookie idea here: salted caramel cookie base.
Directions :
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, 1/3 cup sugar, and melted butter until crumbly. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- In another bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Fold in the diced apples and cinnamon into the cheesecake mixture. Pour over the crust in the baking pan.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set.
- Allow to cool, then drizzle with caramel sauce before cutting into bars.
- Serve and enjoy!
how to serve Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
Cut bars into squares. Serve warm or cool. Add a little more caramel on top. You can serve with plain cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Try a small cookie on the side like these apple cider cookies for a full treat.
how to store Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
Cover the bars with plastic wrap or place in an air tight box. Put them in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can freeze the bars for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
tips to make Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
- Use room temp cream cheese for a smooth mix.
- Dry the apple pieces well so the mix is not wet.
- Do not over bake. The center should be set but a bit soft.
- Let the bars cool all the way for neat cuts.
variation (if any)
- Add chopped nuts on top for a crunch.
- Use salted caramel if you like a salty sweet taste.
- Swap half the apples for pears for a mild change.
FAQs
Q: Can I use store made caramel?
A: Yes. Store made caramel works well and saves time.
Q: What apples are best?
A: Use firm apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp. They hold their shape.
Q: Can I make this in a larger pan?
A: Yes. Use a 9×13 pan and bake a little less time or check at 25 minutes.
Q: Can I skip the cinnamon?
A: Yes. The bars will still taste sweet but a bit milder.
Conclusion
If you want a full step by step from another cook, see this Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars page. For another good take on this dish, check Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars – Our Best Bites.
