Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this dessert layers flavor and texture in such a satisfying way. There’s the crunch of the crust, the smooth creaminess of the cheesecake, and the tender spiced apples, all crowned with a buttery crumble. It’s like apple pie, cheesecake, and caramel all got together in one perfect bite. These bars are easy to serve, make ahead friendly, and always a hit at gatherings or holiday dinners.

ingredients

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

For the crust:
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the cheesecake layer:
16 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the apple layer:
2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and finely chopped
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
2 teaspoons all-purpose flour

For the streusel topping:
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For topping:
1/2 cup caramel sauce

directions

1. I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. To make the crust, I mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until evenly combined. I press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan and bake for 8–10 minutes, then let it cool.

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

4. In another bowl, I toss the chopped apples with cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour, then spread them evenly over the cheesecake layer.

5. To make the streusel, I combine the brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon. I cut in the cold butter with a fork until the mixture forms coarse crumbs, then sprinkle it generously over the apples.

6. I bake the bars for 35–40 minutes until the center is set. Once they’re done, I let them cool completely at room temperature before chilling them in the fridge for at least 2 hours.

7. Just before serving, I drizzle the top with caramel sauce and cut the dessert into bars.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 bars
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Calories: 385 kcal per bar

Variations

• When I want a nutty crunch, I mix chopped pecans or walnuts into the streusel topping.

• For a twist, I use Biscoff cookie crumbs instead of graham crackers for the crust.

• I sometimes add a dash of apple pie spice to the apple layer for a deeper fall flavor.

• If I want a lighter version, I use light cream cheese and reduce the sugar slightly—it still tastes amazing.

• I occasionally swap the caramel for a drizzle of maple glaze when I want a different kind of sweetness.

storage/reheating

Once cooled and sliced, I store the bars in an airtight container in the fridge. They stay fresh for up to 4 days. I don’t reheat these—they’re best served chilled or at room temperature. If I need to freeze them, I do so without the caramel drizzle, wrapping each bar tightly and storing them for up to a month. When ready to eat, I thaw in the fridge and add caramel just before serving.

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of crust?

Yes, I sometimes use shortbread or vanilla wafer crumbs instead of graham crackers for a different texture and flavor.

What type of apples work best?

I like using tart apples like Granny Smith or sweet-tart varieties like Honeycrisp. They hold up well and add a nice contrast to the creamy filling.

Do I need to peel the apples?

I always peel the apples for a smoother texture, but if I’m short on time, leaving the skin on works too—just dice them finely.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely. I often make these the night before. The flavors meld beautifully after chilling, and they’re even easier to slice when fully set.

How do I keep the cheesecake layer smooth?

I make sure the cream cheese is fully softened and beat it well to avoid lumps. Mixing the eggs in one at a time also helps with a creamy consistency.

Conclusion

These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars bring together everything I love in a dessert: creamy cheesecake, warm apples, and that irresistible caramel drizzle. They’re comforting, festive, and easy to make ahead. Whether I’m baking for a fall gathering or just indulging in a sweet treat, these bars always satisfy.