Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Name: Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs; 1/4 cup sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup sour cream; 2 cups apples, peeled and diced; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 tsp cinnamon; 1/4 cup caramel sauce

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Indulge in the delightful combination of creamy cheesecake and sweet caramel apples with these irresistible bars.

Created by

Brielle Thompson

Last updated on 2025-12-19T15:55:52.913Z

These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are the perfect dessert for autumn gatherings or any special occasion. The creamy cheesecake layer pairs beautifully with the sweet and slightly tart apples, all drizzled with rich caramel sauce.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich caramel flavor that complements tart apples
Creamy cheesecake filling that is smooth and luscious
Perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying at home

      

The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are the ideal dessert choice for any gathering, be it a festive holiday party, a casual barbecue, or a cozy family dinner. Their appealing layers of creamy cheesecake, tart apples, and rich caramel create a delightful experience that will impress your guests. Easy to cut into squares, these bars are perfect for sharing, making them a go-to treat for potlucks or office parties.

Not only do these bars taste amazing, but they also look stunning. The vibrant apples paired with the glossy caramel topping create an eye-catching presentation that will draw everyone in. Serve them chilled or at room temperature, and watch as your friends and family eagerly indulge in this delicious dessert.

Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with your Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars, it's crucial to use high-quality ingredients. Opt for fresh, crisp apples that will hold their shape during baking, and don't skimp on the cream cheese. A full-fat variety offers the richest flavor and creaminess, ensuring your cheesecake filling is smooth and luxurious.

Preparation is key! Make sure to let your cream cheese soften at room temperature before mixing, as this helps to eliminate lumps and creates a velvety texture. Additionally, allow the bars to cool completely before adding the caramel sauce—this prevents the sauce from melting into the cheesecake and makes for a beautiful presentation.

Ingredients

For the crust

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

For the cheesecake filling

16 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup sour cream

For the apple topping

2 cups apples, peeled and diced
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
1/4 cup caramel sauce

Mix the ingredients well and prepare to create a delicious dessert!

Instructions

Prepare the crust

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

Make the cheesecake filling

In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream until fully combined.

Layer the apples

In another bowl, toss the diced apples with brown sugar and cinnamon. Spread the apple mixture evenly over the crust, then pour the cheesecake filling on top.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes or until the center is set. Let it cool completely before drizzling with caramel sauce.

Allow to chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before slicing into bars.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you want to make them ahead of time, they can also be frozen. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing them in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

For serving, consider adding a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for an extra indulgent treat. A sprinkle of chopped nuts or a drizzle of additional caramel sauce can also elevate the presentation and flavor.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different apple varieties to create your own unique flavor profile. Granny Smith apples offer a tart contrast to the sweet caramel, while Honeycrisp apples provide a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch. You can also mix in other fruits, such as pears or berries, for a delightful twist.

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookies made from almond or coconut flour. The recipe remains just as delicious, allowing everyone to enjoy these bars without worry.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Yes, store-bought caramel sauce works perfectly for drizzling.

→ How do I store leftover bars?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can I freeze these bars?

Yes, you can freeze the bars for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

→ What type of apples are best for this recipe?

Tart apples like Granny Smith or sweet apples like Fuji work well.