Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

There’s just something about the combination of tart Granny Smith apples, creamy cheesecake, and a buttery streusel that screams fall. Pair that with a buttery graham cracker crust and a decadent drizzle of caramel sauce…my mouth is watering just thinking about it! Imagine sinking your teeth into one of these delightful squares on a cool fall afternoon with a hot cup of apple cider—absolutely heavenly.

One thing I love most about these Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars is how they bring everyone together. They disappear quickly, with everyone always asking for seconds, so I’ve learned to make a double batch just to be safe! Whether we’re enjoying them after a busy day of apple picking or sharing a laugh over Thanksgiving leftovers, these bars never fail to bring joy and sweet memories. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll know exactly why they became a family favorite so quickly.

Now, enough about my family stories, let’s get you started on creating your own cherished memories with these Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars. I promise you’ll be the star of any potluck or family gathering when you serve up these little slices of autumn heaven. So go ahead, preheat that oven and let’s dive into what just might be your new fall obsession. Ready? Let’s get baking!

How to Make Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

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Ingredients:

• 12 cinnamon graham crackers
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 cup brown sugar (firmly packed)
• 3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1-1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3 large Granny Smith apples (peeled, cored, and finely chopped)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 cup flour
• 1/2 cup quick oats
• 1/4 cup pecans (finely chopped)
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (cubed, room temperature)
• Caramel sauce for drizzling

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a 9 x 13-inch pan with parchment paper.
2. Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs using a blender. Blend in melted butter and sugar. Press evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 8 minutes.
3. In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth, then mix in granulated sugar, followed by eggs, vanilla, and salt.
4. Once the crust is slightly cooled but still warm, spread the cheesecake mixture over it.
5. For the apple layer, mix the apples with lemon juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
6. For the streusel, combine brown sugar, flour, oats, and pecans. Mix in cubed butter by hand until crumbly.
7. Layer the apples over the cheesecake, followed by the streusel.
8. Bake for 30 minutes, or until set. Allow to cool at room temperature for 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
9. Lift out the bars using parchment paper, slice into squares, and drizzle with caramel sauce before serving. Enjoy!

Customizing Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars: Alternative Ingredients

If you’re out of cinnamon graham crackers, regular graham crackers with a pinch of cinnamon work just fine. For a nut-free version, skip the pecans and add extra oats for crunch. You can also substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative if desired.

Preserving Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars for Later Enjoyment

To keep these bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you’re making them in advance, you can freeze them before adding the caramel drizzle. Just wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and they’ll keep well for up to two months.

Perfect Pairings for Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

These bars pair wonderfully with a steaming cup of apple cider or hot chocolate. If you’re serving them as a dessert, consider a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra indulgence. A light dusting of powdered sugar also makes an elegant touch.

Avoid These Mistakes When Cooking Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Ensure your cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the filling. Press the graham cracker crust firmly and evenly for a stable base. Let the bars cool completely before refrigerating, so they set properly. When lifting the parchment, support the bars from underneath to prevent breaking.

Seasonal Twists for Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

In the summer, swap apples for peaches or berries for a fresher flavor. In winter, add some cloves for a spicier touch. Springtime is perfect for experimenting with a rhubarb twist, while adding some pumpkin spice in the fall can enhance the autumnal feel.

FAQs:

Can I use different apples?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples provide a nice tart flavor, you can use other types like Honeycrisp or Fuji for a sweeter touch. Just ensure the apples are crunchy to maintain the right texture after baking.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, you can replace the graham crackers with gluten-free crackers and use gluten-free oats and flour. Ensure that all ingredients are certified gluten-free to match dietary needs and prevent cross-contamination.

How do I store leftover caramel sauce?

If you have leftover caramel sauce, transfer it to a sealed container and refrigerate for up to two weeks. To reheat, warm gently in a microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until smooth and pourable.

Do I have to peel the apples?

Peeling is recommended to ensure a smooth texture, but if you prefer keeping the peel for extra fiber and color, that’s entirely up to you. Just make sure they’re finely chopped for even baking.

What’s the best way to cut these bars?

To get clean cuts, refrigerate the bars for the full suggested time, then use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry. Cutting in a swift, downward motion helps maintain the structure without crumbling.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, margarine can be used in place of butter, especially if you’re looking for a dairy-free or lower-fat option. Keep in mind that it may alter the flavor slightly, so choose a high-quality margarine for the best results.