Description
These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are a delightful autumn dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the tangy sweetness of apples and the decadence of caramel. Perfect for fall gatherings or as a special treat, these bars offer a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will surely impress your guests.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ tsp cinnamon
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Apple Layer:
- 3 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
For the Streusel Topping:
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- ¼ cup chopped pecans, optional
For the Caramel Sauce:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup water
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- ¼ tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Make the crust: In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon. Press into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then cool.
- Prepare the cheesecake layer: Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla. Pour over the cooled crust.
- Make the apple layer: Toss apples with lemon juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Spread over the cheesecake layer.
- Create the streusel topping: Mix flour and brown sugar. Cut in cold butter until crumbly. Add pecans if desired. Sprinkle over the apple layer.
- Bake the bars: Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden and set. Cool, then refrigerate for 2 hours.
- Make the caramel sauce: Combine sugar and water in a saucepan. Cook until amber, then whisk in cream, butter, and salt. Cool slightly.
- Serve: Cut into squares, drizzle with caramel sauce, and enjoy!
Notes
- Tips & Tricks
- The Perfect Crust: Pre-bake for 10 minutes for extra crispiness.
- Creamy Cheesecake Layer: Ensure cream cheese is smooth and at room temperature.
- Apple Selection: Granny Smith apples provide a nice tartness.
- Caramel Sauce: Watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Serving and Storage: Best served chilled; store in the refrigerator.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Bar
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 267mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 77mg
