Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Name: Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 16 bars
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/4 cup sugar; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups chopped apples; 1/2 tsp cinnamon; 1 cup caramel sauce; 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Treat your taste buds to these decadent Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars, where creamy cheesecake meets a deliciously sweet caramel sauce and tender apples. Perfect for fall gatherings or anytime you crave a delightful dessert, these bars feature a buttery crust and are drizzled with extra caramel for that irresistible finishing touch. Easy to make and even easier to share, these treats will become a favorite among friends and family!

Created by

Arielle Baxter

Last updated on 2025-12-09T03:06:31.272Z

This recipe combines the rich flavors of caramel and apple with the creamy texture of cheesecake, creating a dessert that is sure to impress.

A Perfect Fall Treat

As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, there's nothing quite like indulging in a seasonal dessert that captures the essence of fall. Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars combine the warm flavors of cinnamon-spiced apples with the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake. This delightful treat brings together the comforting taste of caramel and the freshness of apples, making it an ideal sweet for gatherings or cozy nights in.

These bars not only taste fantastic but also present beautifully, with their golden caramel drizzle and chunky apple pieces on top. Serve them at parties, potlucks, or family dinners and watch as friends and family request the recipe. They are easy to make, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the company of your loved ones than in the kitchen.

Easy to Make and Share

One of the best aspects of these Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars is their simplicity. The recipe is straightforward, requiring minimal time and effort without sacrificing flavor or presentation. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a dessert that looks and tastes professionally made. Plus, they are baked in a single dish, making cleanup a breeze.

Once baked and cooled, these bars can be sliced into neat squares, making them easy to share. Whether you’re sending some with your kids to school, taking them to a friend’s house, or serving them at a holiday gathering, everyone will appreciate the delightful flavors and comforting texture. Prepare to become the 'dessert person' among your friends and family!

Ingredients

For the Crust

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling

16 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups chopped apples
1/2 tsp cinnamon

For the Caramel Topping

1 cup caramel sauce
1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Mix the ingredients thoroughly for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well mixed. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased baking dish.

Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla, chopped apples, and cinnamon.

Bake

Spread the cheesecake filling over the crust. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until set. Let it cool completely.

Add Caramel Topping

Once cooled, drizzle caramel sauce over the cheesecake and sprinkle with nuts if using. Chill in the refrigerator before cutting into bars.

Serve chilled for the best taste and texture.

Storage Tips

To keep your Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to five days, allowing you to enjoy them even after the initial bake. Additionally, you can freeze them for longer storage. Simply wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.

When you're ready to enjoy a frozen bar, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or let it sit at room temperature for about half an hour. Feel free to drizzle additional caramel sauce on top for that freshly-made taste!

Variations to Try

While this recipe is delicious as is, there are plenty of variations you can experiment with to make these bars uniquely yours. Consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the cheesecake filling for an extra layer of flavor. You could also substitute pecans or walnuts for the optional nuts, or omit them altogether if you prefer a smoother texture.

For those who enjoy a chocolate twist, try swirls of chocolate ganache over the caramel topping before chilling. Each of these variations can elevate the bars and cater to different palates, ensuring that there’s a perfect version for everyone you serve.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, these bars can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

→ What type of apples work best?

Granny Smith apples provide a nice tart contrast to the sweet caramel.