Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Caramel apple cheesecake bars are a dreamy, fall-inspired dessert that brings together three of my favorite treats: buttery crust, creamy cheesecake, and warm cinnamon apples—all finished with a drizzle of caramel. I love making them when I want something that feels indulgent but is easy to serve, especially during the holidays or cozy weekends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how these bars combine the rich, velvety texture of cheesecake with the sweet, spiced flavor of baked apples. The layers are simple to build but look (and taste) like something from a bakery. They slice beautifully, making them perfect for parties, potlucks, or whenever I want an easy-to-share dessert that still feels special. And that caramel drizzle? It takes everything over the top.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the crust:

• Graham cracker crumbs

• Melted butter

• Granulated sugar

For the cheesecake layer:

• Cream cheese (softened)

• Granulated sugar

• Eggs

• Vanilla extract

For the apple layer:

• Apples (peeled and finely diced)

• Brown sugar

• Ground cinnamon

• Ground nutmeg

• All-purpose flour

For the topping:

• Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.

2. To make the crust, I combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar, then press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan. I bake it for 8–10 minutes, then set it aside.

3. For the cheesecake layer, I beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. I add the eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla. I pour this over the cooled crust.

4. I toss the diced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour, then evenly spread them over the cheesecake layer.

5. I bake the bars for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is set.

6. I let them cool completely, then chill them in the fridge for at least 2 hours before slicing.

7. Just before serving, I drizzle warm caramel sauce over the top.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 12–16 bars, depending on how I cut them.

• Prep time: 20 minutes

• Cook time: 40 minutes

• Chill time: 2 hours

• Total time: about 3 hours

Variations

• I use crushed shortbread cookies instead of graham crackers for a richer crust.

• I stir a handful of chopped pecans into the apple layer for added crunch.

• I make it gluten-free by using gluten-free graham crackers and a gluten-free flour blend.

• I swirl a bit of caramel into the cheesecake batter before baking for an extra caramel hit.

• I top with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an ultra-decadent finish.

Storage/Reheating

I store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They’re best served chilled, but I let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before eating if I want a softer texture.

To freeze, I wrap the bars (without the caramel) in plastic and foil and freeze for up to 2 months. I thaw them in the fridge overnight, then drizzle with caramel before serving.

FAQs

Can I use any type of apples?

Yes, I usually go with firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They hold their shape and balance the sweetness perfectly.

Do I have to let them chill before slicing?

Yes, chilling helps them firm up so I get clean slices. I always wait at least 2 hours for the best results.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Definitely. I often make these a day in advance, store them in the fridge, and drizzle the caramel right before serving.

What kind of caramel sauce works best?

I use either homemade caramel or a thick, high-quality store-bought sauce. I warm it slightly so it pours smoothly over the bars.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, I double all the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan. I may need to increase the bake time slightly, but everything else stays the same.

Conclusion

Caramel apple cheesecake bars are everything I love about fall desserts—warm spice, sweet apples, creamy cheesecake, and gooey caramel—all in one easy-to-make treat. They’re great for serving a crowd or making ahead, and they always get rave reviews. Whether I’m baking for a holiday, a gathering, or just for fun, these bars never let me down.

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