Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are a must-try dessert for fall! With a buttery shortbread crust, creamy cheesecake layer, spiced apple topping, and a crunchy streusel, every bite is rich, flavorful, and satisfying. Drizzled with homemade caramel sauce, these bars are perfect for Thanksgiving desserts, holiday parties, or cozy autumn evenings.

Whether you’re looking for an easy apple cheesecake recipe, a delicious fall baking idea, or a show-stopping treat for a potluck, these bars deliver the perfect balance of sweetness and spice. Plus, they’re make-ahead friendly and freezer-friendly, making them an ideal dessert for busy holiday seasons.

Ingredients

Apples:

• 3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

Streusel Topping:

• 1 cup (7.5 ounces) packed light brown sugar
• 1 cup (5 ounces) all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ cup (1.75 ounces) quick-cooking oats
• ½ cup (1 stick, 4 ounces) unsalted butter, softened

Shortbread Base:

• 2 cups (10 ounces) all-purpose flour
• ½ cup (3.75 ounces) packed brown sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup (2 sticks, 8 ounces) unsalted butter, softened

Cream Cheese Layer:

• 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup (3.75 ounces) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Caramel Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 cup (7.5 ounces) packed light brown sugar
• ½ cup heavy cream
• Pinch of salt
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (reduce to 1 teaspoon if preferred)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Shortbread Base

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
• In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Add the softened butter and mix until the dough forms.
• Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from oven and let it cool slightly.

2. Make the Apple Layer

• In a medium bowl, toss the chopped apples with the sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.

3. Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
• Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
• Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled shortbread crust.

4. Add the Apple Layer

• Distribute the apple mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer.

5. Make the Streusel Topping

• In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and oats.
• Cut in the softened butter using a fork or pastry cutter until the mixture becomes crumbly.
• Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the apple layer.

6. Bake the Bars

• Bake the assembled bars for 40-45 minutes, or until the streusel is golden brown and the center is set.
• Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan.

7. Prepare the Caramel Sauce

• In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt. Stir continuously until the mixture comes to a boil.
• Simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
• Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

8. Serve

• Drizzle the cooled caramel sauce over the bars before serving.

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Storing Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

• Cover the bars tightly and store them in the refrigerator for 3-5 days.
• For optimal texture and flavor, allow the bars to rest for 24 hours before serving.

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Tips

• Apples: Use a combination of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for a balanced flavor.
• Parchment Paper: Lining the baking dish with parchment paper makes it easier to remove and cut the bars.
• Caramel Consistency: If you prefer a thicker caramel, simmer the sauce for an additional minute or two.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Nuts: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the streusel topping for extra crunch.
• Spices: Add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour to make this recipe gluten-free.

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FAQs

Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes! These bars are even better after 24 hours, making them a perfect make-ahead dessert.

Can I freeze Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars?
Yes, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Yes, store-bought caramel sauce works well if you’re short on time.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm or chilled, drizzled with extra caramel sauce and a dollop of whipped cream.
• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• Enjoy alongside a cup of coffee or hot cider for a cozy fall treat.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars combine the best of fall flavors with a buttery shortbread crust, creamy cheesecake, spiced apples, and a crunchy streusel topping. The homemade caramel sauce takes them to the next level, making them an irresistible dessert for fall gatherings, holidays, or anytime you crave something sweet and comforting!