Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the crisp autumn air settles in, my kitchen transforms into a cozy haven filled with the inviting scent of spiced apples and warm caramel. The spotlight? My beloved Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars. This delightful recipe combines a buttery crust with a velvety cheesecake layer, topped with tender apples and a crunchy crumble, all drizzled with luscious caramel. These bars encapsulate the essence of fall, making them perfect for both intimate gatherings and casual family nights. Plus, they are incredibly simple to whip up, ensuring even novice bakers can impress everyone at the table. Are you ready to dive into a slice of comfort? Let’s get started! Why Are These Cheesecake Bars So Special? Irresistible Flavor: The blend of spiced apples and creamy cheesecake creates an explosion of taste that is hard to resist. Each bite is reminiscent of cozy fall days. Effortless Baking: No complex techniques here! This recipe is simple enough for beginners, yet impressive enough to wow your guests. Versatile Options: Feel free to experiment with different apples or sweeteners to tailor the dish to your liking. Consider trying a delightful twist with Honeycrisp apples for added sweetness. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are a surefire hit at any gathering! They bring comfort and joy to the table, making them a perfect addition to your autumn festivities. Make-Ahead Magic: You can prepare these bars ahead of time and they hold up beautifully in the fridge or freezer, so you can focus on enjoying time with family and friends. For more delightful, comforting desserts, check out my Butterfinger Cheesecake Sweet and Peanut Butter Cheesecake recipes! Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Ingredients For the Crust • Digestive Biscuits – Ideal for creating that buttery crust; swap for gluten-free biscuits if needed. • Unsalted Butter (70g) – Binds the biscuit crumbs for a perfect crunch; margarine can be used for a dairy-free option. For the Cheesecake Filling • Full-fat Cream Cheese (320g) – The star that brings creaminess to the filling; low-fat cream cheese works but may alter texture. • Granulated Sugar (120g) – Sweetens the cheesecake; coconut sugar is a great alternative. • Salt (½ teaspoon) – Essential for enhancing flavors; don’t skip this! • Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon) – Adds depth and warmth to the cheesecake flavor. • Large Eggs (2) – Provides richness and structure; ensure they’re at room temperature for best results. For the Apple Layer • Granny Smith Apples (300g) – This tart variety adds a lovely contrast to the sweet cheesecake; feel free to try other tart apple types. • Lemon Zest (1 teaspoon) – Brightens the apple flavor; fresh is always best! • Ground Cinnamon (¾ teaspoon) & Ground Nutmeg (½ teaspoon) – Seasonal spices that elevate the dish; adjust to your taste. For the Crumble Topping • Unsalted Butter (100g) – Chilled adds richness to the crumble; keep it cold for the best texture. • Plain Flour (125g) – Provides structure for the topping; gluten-free flour can be substituted. • Demerara Sugar (70g) & Granulated Sugar (40g) – Adds sweetness and crunch; a blend of sugars works well here. This cozy recipe of Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars is sure to bring joy and comfort to your autumn gatherings! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Start by preheating your oven to 160°C (320°F). While the oven warms, line an 8 x 8-inch baking pan with greased baking paper, ensuring it hangs over the edges for easy removal later. This step sets you up for success when making your delicious Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars. Step 2: Make the Crust In a food processor, blitz the digestive biscuits into fine crumbs. Melt 70g of unsalted butter and combine it with the biscuit crumbs, mixing until well-coated. Press this mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan, creating a compact crust. Chill the crust in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes while you prepare the cheesecake layer. Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling In a mixing bowl, beat 320g of full-fat cream cheese using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add 120g of granulated sugar, ½ teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 2 large eggs, blending until fully incorporated. Once the mixture is smooth, pour it over the chilled crust, gently tapping the pan to release any air bubbles. Step 4: Spice the Apples Peel, core, and chop 300g of Granny Smith apples into small pieces. In a bowl, toss the apples with 20g of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of lemon zest, ¾ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg until the apples are well-coated. Set this spiced apple mixture aside while preparing the crumble topping. Step 5: Make the Crumble Topping In a separate bowl, combine 125g of plain flour, 70g of demerara sugar, and 40g of granulated sugar. Next, add 100g of chilled unsalted butter, rubbing it into the dry ingredients with your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This crumble will enhance your Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars with a delightful crunch. Step 6: Layer and Bake Spread the spiced apple mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer. Top it generously with the crumble mixture, ensuring it covers the apples completely. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the crumble is golden and the cheesecake is set. The fragrant aroma will fill your kitchen, signaling it’s nearly time to enjoy! Step 7: Cool and Refrigerate Once baked, remove the Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars from the oven and allow them to cool on the counter for about 30 minutes. After cooling, transfer them to the refrigerator and chill for at least 3 hours to firm up. This step is crucial for achieving the ideal texture before slicing into those decadent bars. Make Ahead Options These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to streamline your dessert-making process! You can prepare the crust and filling up to 24 hours in advance; simply keep them covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. For the spiced apples, they can be mixed and refrigerated for up to 3 days without losing their delightful flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy, layer the spiced apples over the cheesecake filling, top with crumble, and bake as directed. This makes it simple to serve a delicious dessert with little effort, leaving more time for you to savor the cozy moments with family and friends! Expert Tips for Perfect Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Compact Crust: Ensure your biscuit crust is pressed firmly into the pan to avoid crumbling when cut. A well-packed crust will hold its shape beautifully! Sharp Knife: Use a sharp knife to slice your bars, wiping it clean after each cut for neat, clean edges. This simple trick enhances presentation! Cooling Time: Allow the cheesecake bars to cool completely before chilling in the fridge. This step helps improve their texture and prevents cracking. Caramel Timing: Drizzle caramel sauce only when serving. If added too early, it may harden and become less appealing on the bars. Apple Substitutes: Experiment with different apple varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp for a sweet twist in these Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars. Adjust spices as necessary! What to Serve with Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars As you savor each decadent bite of these heavenly bars, consider enhancing your meal with delightful accompaniments that elevate the experience. Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a light and airy contrast, balancing the rich cheesecake and spiced apple layers beautifully. Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for a classic pairing; its coolness melts into the warm flavors for a comforting taste explosion. Cranberry Sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce offers a refreshing zing, creating a balance with the sweetness of the cheesecake and caramel. It’s a seasonal showstopper! Spiced Tea: Pair with a warm cup of spiced chai tea to enhance the autumn flavors; the aromatic spices mirror those in the bars for a harmonious combination. Nutty Granola: Sprinkle some crunchy nut-based granola on top for an extra layer of texture and a hint of nuttiness that complements the creamy, sweet layers marvelously. Caramel Drizzle: For an indulgent touch, serve with extra caramel sauce on the side; it’s perfect for drizzling over those already delicious bars right before the first bite. Salted Pecans: Their rich, buttery flavors and crunch offer a delightful contrast to the softness of the cheesecake. They also add an extra layer of nutty sophistication. How to Store and Freeze Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Fridge: Store your Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for your next sweet craving! Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bars for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the bars in the fridge overnight for a perfect texture when served. Reheating: If desired, gently warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a warm, gooey delight! Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Variations Customize your Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars to suit your taste or dietary needs, creating a truly personal dessert experience! Gluten-Free: Replace digestive biscuits with gluten-free biscuits or oats for a delightful crust without the gluten. Dairy-Free: Use margarine in the crust and swap full-fat cream cheese for dairy-free cream cheese alternatives for a rich, vegan-friendly option. Sugar-Free: Experiment with sugar alternatives like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener to create a lower-calorie dessert. Spice It Up: Instead of just cinnamon and nutmeg, add a pinch of ginger or cloves for an additional layer of warmth and flavor. Fruit Variation: Switch Granny Smith apples for other tart apples like Fuji or even pears for a fresh twist. Nutty Crunch: Toss in chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, into the crumble topping for added texture and a nutty flavor boost. Syrupy Delight: Drizzle not just caramel but also a balsamic reduction for a surprising savory-sweet combo that elevates this dessert. Layered Cheesecake: Consider adding a layer of chocolate ganache beneath the apples for an indulgent surprise in every bite. If you love the idea of experimenting with flavors, try my popular Fried Strawberry Cheesecake for another fun twist! Each option encourages creativity while keeping the essence of your Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars deliciously intact. Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe FAQs What type of apples should I use for this recipe? Absolutely, the classic choice is Granny Smith apples for their tartness, which perfectly balances the sweetness of the cheesecake. However, feel free to experiment with other tart varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for a sweeter spin. Just ensure whichever apple you choose has a firm texture to hold up during baking. How should I store the Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars? These delectable bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This helps keep them fresh and delicious for those sweet cravings! Just remember to place a piece of parchment paper between layers if you’re stacking them to prevent sticking. Can I freeze these cheesecake bars? Yes, you can freeze your Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars for up to 2 months! To do this, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, then a layer of aluminum foil to safeguard against freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw the bars in the fridge overnight. What should I do if my cheesecake filling cracks while baking? Very! A cracked filling is usually due to baking at too high a temperature or overmixing the batter. To avoid this, always bake at the recommended temperature and mix just until the ingredients are incorporated, ensuring the eggs are at room temperature beforehand to create a smooth texture. If cracking occurs, it can be hidden with your delicious crumble topping or caramel drizzle! Are there any dietary adjustments I can make? Certainly! For a gluten-free option, simply substitute digestive biscuits with your favorite gluten-free biscuits and use gluten-free flour in the crumble. Additionally, you can make it dairy-free by opting for margarine and dairy-free cream cheese. Always check ingredient labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs. Can I prepare these bars in advance? Absolutely! In fact, these bars taste even better after chilling overnight. Make them a day in advance and you’ll find the flavors have melded beautifully. Just remember, the key is to allow them to cool completely before refrigerating overnight! Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars for Your Cozy Fall Gatherings Indulge in Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars that blend spiced apples and creamy cheesecake for the perfect cozy fall dessert. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 50 minutes minsCooling Time 3 hours hrsTotal Time 4 hours hrs 20 minutes mins Servings: 16 barsCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Crust200 g Digestive Biscuits swap for gluten-free biscuits if needed70 g Unsalted Butter melted, margarine can be used for a dairy-free optionFor the Cheesecake Filling320 g Full-fat Cream Cheese low-fat cream cheese works but may alter texture120 g Granulated Sugar coconut sugar is a great alternative0.5 teaspoon Salt essential for enhancing flavors1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract adds depth and warmth2 large Eggs ensure they're at room temperatureFor the Apple Layer300 g Granny Smith Apples or other tart apple types1 teaspoon Lemon Zest fresh is always best0.75 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon adjust to your taste0.5 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg adjust to your tasteFor the Crumble Topping100 g Unsalted Butter chilled for best texture125 g Plain Flour gluten-free flour can be substituted70 g Demerara Sugar adds sweetness and crunch40 g Granulated Sugar adds sweetness and crunch Equipment Food processorMixing bowlElectric mixerBaking Pan Method Preparation StepsPreheat your oven to 160°C (320°F) and line an 8 x 8-inch baking pan with greased baking paper.In a food processor, blitz the digestive biscuits into fine crumbs. Melt the unsalted butter and combine it with the biscuit crumbs, mixing until well-coated. Press this mixture into the prepared baking pan and chill for 15 minutes.In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the sugar, salt, vanilla, and eggs, blending until incorporated. Pour this over the chilled crust.Peel, core, and chop the apples. Toss them with granulated sugar, lemon zest, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.In another bowl, combine flour, demerara sugar, and granulated sugar. Add chilled butter and rub into dry ingredients until it resembles coarse crumbs.Spread the apples over the cheesecake layer and top with the crumble mixture. Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden.Cool for 30 minutes then refrigerate for at least 3 hours before slicing. Nutrition Serving: 1barCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 4gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesEnsure your biscuit crust is pressed firmly into the pan to avoid crumbling. Allow the bars to cool completely before chilling for better texture. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
