What apples are best for Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars?

Tart, firm apples like Granny Smith hold their shape well and balance the sweetness of the caramel and cheesecake layers, making them a top choice for this dessert. You could also use Honeycrisp or Braeburn if you prefer something slightly sweeter.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes — these Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are perfect for prepping in advance. Bake them, chill them thoroughly, and then slice when you’re ready. They’ll stay delicious when stored in the refrigerator for several days.

How should I store leftover bars and can I freeze them?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. You can freeze them (without the caramel drizzle) for up to two months. When you’re ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge and add the caramel drizzle just before enjoying.

How do I know when the cheesecake layer is done baking?

You’ll know the cheesecake layer is done when the edges are set and the center still has a gentle jiggle — it will firm as the bars cool in the fridge. Over-baking can create cracks or make the bars dry, so err on the side of slight wobble.

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars – Irresistible Fall Dessert Bliss

Description

Sweet, creamy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars layered with buttery crust, smooth cheesecake, spiced apple topping, and a rich caramel drizzle. The perfect fall dessert that combines the warmth of cinnamon apples with the indulgence of creamy cheesecake.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup packed brown sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
16 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 large egg
2 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon brown sugar
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon nutmeg
½ cup rolled oats
½ cup flour
½ cup brown sugar
¼ teaspoon cinnamon
¼ cup cold butter, cubed
½ cup soft caramels or caramel bits
2 tablespoons heavy cream

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F and line a 9×9-inch pan with parchment paper.
Mix flour, brown sugar, and butter for the crust; press into pan and bake 10 minutes.
Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar, vanilla, and egg. Spread evenly over crust.
Toss diced apples with flour, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Spoon mixture over cheesecake layer.
Combine oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter until crumbly; sprinkle over apples.
Bake 30–35 minutes until edges set and center slightly jiggles.
Cool completely, refrigerate 2 hours, then drizzle with melted caramel before slicing.

Notes

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freeze (without caramel drizzle) for up to 2 months.
Serve chilled or slightly softened at room temperature.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Desserts
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 320
Sugar: 28g
Sodium: 180mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 55mg