Introduction

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars combine a creamy cheesecake base with tender, spiced apples and a buttery streusel topping. Finished with a drizzle of caramel sauce, these bars make a perfect fall dessert or anytime treat that’s sure to impress.

The image shows close-up pieces of dessert bars on a wooden board with a white marbled texture in the background. Each bar has four layers: a thick, crumbly brown base at the bottom, a creamy white cheesecake layer above it, a smooth caramel layer on top of the white, and a crumbly streusel topping that is golden brown with visible sugar crystals. Drizzled over the top are streaks of rich caramel sauce and white icing in a zigzag pattern, creating a shiny contrast. The texture of the caramel and crumb topping looks sticky and crunchy, while the cheesecake layer appears smooth and soft. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

For the crust:

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10-12 full sheets)
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
7 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the apple topping:

3 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Fuji), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
⅓ cup light brown sugar
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon lemon juice

For the cheesecake layer:

16 ounces (2 packages) cream cheese, softened
⅔ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the streusel crumble topping:

⅔ cup all-purpose flour
⅓ cup brown sugar
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes

For assembly:

Caramel sauce for drizzling (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang to help lift out the bars later.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon. Stir in the melted butter until evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes until set and lightly golden. Let cool.
Step 3: Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender but still hold their shape. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
Step 4: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until smooth. Add the egg and vanilla extract and mix until just combined, avoiding overmixing.
Step 5: Pour the cheesecake batter evenly over the cooled crust. Arrange the cooked apple slices gently on top.
Step 6: To make the streusel, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle it evenly over the apples and cheesecake layer.
Step 7: Bake the bars for 35-40 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set and the streusel topping turns golden brown. Remove from oven and cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Step 8: Refrigerate the cooled bars for at least 2 hours to set. Use the parchment overhang to lift them from the pan and cut into squares. Drizzle with warm caramel sauce before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, use a mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Fuji.
If you prefer a thicker crust, increase the graham cracker crumbs by ¼ cup and adjust butter accordingly.
Try adding chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the streusel topping for added crunch.
Use homemade caramel sauce for a richer taste or opt for a salted caramel variety for a sweet-salty contrast.

Storage

Store the cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat slightly in the microwave if you want to warm the caramel drizzle before serving, or enjoy chilled for a firmer texture.

How to Serve

The image shows two stacked dessert bars with four visible layers. The bottom layer is a thick, crumbly brown crust. Above it is a thick, creamy white layer with a smooth texture. The next layer is made up of soft apple slices with a light brown color mixed with cinnamon, covered by a rough, golden-brown crumb topping. Rich caramel sauce drips down the sides of the bars, catching the light and adding shine. The bars sit on a wooden surface, with a soft-focus background featuring a green and a red apple. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, these bars actually benefit from chilling overnight to fully set and develop their flavors. Just cover them tightly and store in the fridge.

Can I freeze Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars?

They freeze well. Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.