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 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened; ¾ cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup diced apples; 1 cup caramel sauce; ¼ cup chopped pecans (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight in the flavors of fall with these Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars that combine creamy cheesecake, tart apples, and a rich caramel drizzle. Ideal for Thanksgiving gatherings or cozy family dinners, these decadent bars are a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone wanting more. Easy to prepare and beautifully layered, they perfectly capture the essence of autumn desserts.

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2025-11-05T14:17:05.363Z

These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are a delightful way to celebrate the autumn season. Combining the creamy richness of cheesecake, the tartness of fresh apples, and the sweetness of caramel, they are a perfect dessert for any gathering.

Perfect for Every Occasion

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat that fits seamlessly into various occasions, from Thanksgiving dinners to casual family gatherings. Their layered structure not only adds a tempting texture but also makes them visually appealing, ensuring they stand out on any dessert table. These bars can be made ahead of time, which means less stress for you on the day of your event. Simply prepare them the day before, refrigerate, and serve when your guests arrive.

The combination of creamy cheesecake and tart apples delivers a flavor profile that resonates with the heartwarming notes of fall. Each bite reveals the perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess, thanks to the rich caramel topping that elevates the entire experience. Not only do these bars satisfy your sweet tooth, but they also celebrate the seasonal ingredients that make autumn so special.

Tip for Perfect Bars

When making these cheesecake bars, preparation is key for achieving that perfect texture. Be sure to soften your cream cheese adequately before mixing. This ensures a smooth filling without any lumps, contributing to that creamy experience everyone loves. If you're short on time, simply cut the cream cheese into smaller cubes and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before starting.

Additionally, let the bars cool completely before cutting into them. This may sound tedious, but allowing them ample time to set makes for cleaner cuts and enhances the overall presentation. You can use a sharp knife warmed under hot water to create neat slices, ensuring that each bar showcases those beautiful layers of cheesecake, apples, and caramel.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars:

For the crust:

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
¼ cup granulated sugar

For the cheesecake filling:

2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup diced apples

For the caramel topping:

1 cup caramel sauce
¼ cup chopped pecans (optional)

Make sure to have all ingredients measured and ready before you start preparing the bars.

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake the perfect Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars:

Prepare the crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.

Make the cheesecake filling

In another bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Then add eggs and vanilla, mixing until just combined. Fold in the diced apples.

Assemble and bake

Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust and spread it evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly firm.

Add caramel topping

Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Drizzle caramel sauce over the top and sprinkle with chopped pecans if desired. Cool completely before cutting into bars.

Slice into squares and enjoy these delicious dessert bars!

Nutritional Information

These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are a treat, but it's important to be mindful of their nutritional content. Each bar packs a punch with calories primarily coming from the rich cream cheese and buttery crust. However, the inclusion of apples adds a healthy twist, providing fiber and essential vitamins. It's wise to enjoy these bars in moderation, especially if you're keeping an eye on sugar intake during the festive season.

If you're looking to lighten the recipe, consider using reduced-fat cream cheese or experimenting with natural sweeteners. Another option is to substitute some of the granulated sugar for a sugar alternative. These adjustments can help maintain the delicious taste while offering a guilt-free indulgence.

Customizing Your Bars

One of the best aspects of these cheesecake bars is their versatility. You can easily customize them to suit your personal taste or dietary preferences. For a spice twist, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cheesecake filling or even experimenting with other types of nuts for the topping, such as walnuts or almonds.

If you’re not a fan of pecans or simply want to switch it up, adding mini chocolate chips, toffee bits, or dried cranberries can all bring a delightful contrasting flavor and texture to the bars. Such variations can create a unique experience every time you bake, making each batch a little special!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, you can make them a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator.

→ What type of apples work best?

Tart apples like Granny Smith are recommended for their flavor contrast with the cheesecake.