Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars with 2-Ingredient Crust Recipe
These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars combine a creamy, tangy cheesecake layer with sweet diced apples and luscious caramel sauce atop a simple graham cracker crust. Baked to golden perfection and chilled to set, they make a delightful dessert perfect for fall gatherings or any time you crave a luscious treat with a hint of autumn flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 9 to 12 bars 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 4 tablespoons melted butter
Filling and Topping
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 apples, peeled and diced
- ½ cup caramel sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the bars.
- Prepare the crust: Combine the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until the mixture is crumbly and holds together when pressed. Press it evenly into the bottom of a baking pan to form the crust base.
- Make the cheesecake filling: In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps.
- Assemble the layers: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the prepared graham cracker crust in the pan.
- Add the apples and caramel: Sprinkle the peeled and diced apples evenly over the cream cheese layer, then drizzle the caramel sauce over the top to add extra sweetness and moisture.
- Bake the bars: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the edges are set and slightly golden.
- Chill to set: Once baked, remove the bars from the oven and let cool. Then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the cheesecake layer to firm up before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance of sweet and tangy flavors.
- For a richer crust, add a tablespoon of sugar to the graham cracker crumbs before mixing with butter.
- Allow cream cheese to soften to room temperature for easier mixing and smoother texture.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- To enhance presentation, drizzle additional caramel sauce on top just before serving.
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