Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Tired of choosing between apple pie or cheesecake for dessert? Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars combine the best of both worlds a buttery crust, creamy cheesecake, cinnamon-spiced apples, and caramel drizzle baked into handheld bars.

At dishfoody.com, I specialize in turning cozy, classic desserts into easy, crowd-pleasing recipes, and this one has been refined until every bite is perfect.

In this post, learn why these bars are so popular, how to layer them flawlessly, sweet flavor variations, and top baking tips to make them foolproof every time.

Why This Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe Works

• Layers crisp crust, creamy filling, and tender apples for perfect texture balance.
• Made with pantry staples no special tools or complicated techniques required.
• Ideal for holiday gatherings, bake sales, or a cozy fall dessert night.

Choosing the Right Ingredients for Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Best Ingredients for This Recipe

For the apples, use firm and tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp they hold shape through baking. Choose full-fat cream cheese for richness and a thick caramel sauce for finishing.

Buying Tips

Go for fresh, crisp apples with smooth skin and no bruises. Check that cream cheese is room temperature before mixing for a lump-free filling.

Substitutions

Swap the caramel sauce for maple syrup for a fall twist, or use Greek yogurt cream cheese for a lighter option.

Ingredients & Prep for Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Prep Essentials

You’ll need:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup melted butter
• 3 (8 oz) packages of cream cheese
• ¾ cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 medium apples (peeled and diced)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ cup thick caramel sauce

Make the graham crust by mixing crumbs and melted butter, pressing into a 9×13-inch pan, and pre-baking 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C).

Apple Topping

Mix diced apples with brown sugar and cinnamon. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until slightly softened and fragrant.

Cheesecake Base

Beat cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth and creamy. Pour over baked crust.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Pre-Baking Prep for Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Prepare the crust, cheesecake, and apple mix before assembly. Grease your baking dish and preheat oven.

Cooking Method for Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

1. Pour cheesecake mixture over the crust.
2. Spoon the apple mixture evenly on top.
3. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes, until center is set and edges puff slightly.
4. Remove and cool completely before chilling in the fridge at least 2 hours.

Doneness Check for Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

The bars are done when the center jiggles slightly but isn’t liquid. They will firm up while chilling.

Resting for Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Cool, then drizzle with caramel before slicing into squares for clean edges and defined layers.

Pro Tips for Perfect Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Avoiding Cracks or Soggy Crust

Don’t overmix your batter or overbake your bars. Always cool completely before cutting.

Tool Recommendations

Use a hand mixer for a silky filling, a rubber spatula for scraping the bowl, and a sharp knife for neat squares.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerate leftovers tightly covered up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Serve cold or slightly chilled.

Flavor Variations for Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Spicy Twist

Add nutmeg or cardamom to the apples for more depth.

Keto/Paleo

Use almond flour crust and stevia-sweetened syrup instead of caramel.

Global Flavors

Incorporate a dash of maple or drizzle with salted caramel for French-style indulgence.

Serving Suggestions for Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Serve slightly chilled with dollops of whipped cream or a drizzle of extra caramel. Pair with coffee, chai, or apple cider for a cozy dessert experience.

FAQs for Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Can I use store-bought crust?
Yes use a premade graham crust base and bake slightly longer for firmness.

Can these be made ahead of time?
Definitely! Make one day in advance, chill, and serve when ready.

Can I make these gluten-free?
Simply swap graham crackers for your favorite gluten-free version.

Conclusion

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars combine everything you love about fall warm spice, sweet apple, and creamy cheesecake in an easy, elegant dessert. Try this recipe from dishfoody.com and join thousands of bakers celebrating cozy, homemade treats. Want more seasonal sweets? Check out our Caramel Pumpkin Cheesecake Muffins for your next savory masterpiece!

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Print Recipe

These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and a sweet apple topping drizzled with caramel sauce the ultimate fall dessert!

• Author: ssam
• Prep Time: 20 mins
• Cook Time: 40 mins
• Total Time: 1 hr
• Yield: 9 bars 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baked
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• For the crust:
• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• For the cheesecake layer:
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• For the apple topping:
• 2 apples, peeled and chopped
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tbsp butter
• For the finishing touch:
• 1/4 cup caramel sauce

Instructions

• 1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
• 2. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press evenly into the bottom of the pan.
• 3. Beat cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth. Spread over the crust.
• 4. In a skillet, cook apples with butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until tender, about 5 minutes.
• 5. Spoon apples over cheesecake layer and gently spread evenly.
• 6. Bake for 35–40 minutes or until the center is set.
• 7. Cool completely, then drizzle with caramel sauce before slicing into bars.

Notes

• Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving for the best texture.
• Use Granny Smith apples for a tart contrast.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars, fall dessert, apple cheesecake squares