Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Learn how to make Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars that are perfect for any occasion! These bars combine the rich flavors of cheesecake with the delightful taste of caramel and apples. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply want a sweet treat, these cheesecake bars are sure to impress. Their creamy filling, crunchy crust, and luscious topping make them a standout dessert.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: No need for a springform pan or water bath; these bars come together easily.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of caramel, apples, and cinnamon creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for fall gatherings, Halloween parties, or holiday celebrations.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve warm or chilled with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch.
• Satisfying Texture: Enjoy the contrast between the smooth cheesecake and crunchy graham cracker crust.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13 inch baking dish: This size is perfect for baking the bars evenly without overflow.
• Electric mixer: Ensures smooth mixing of ingredients for a creamy cheesecake filling.
• Rubber spatula: Great for scraping down sides of bowls and folding in ingredients evenly.

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 2 1/4 cups (302g) graham cracker crumbs
• 3 tbsp (39g) sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup (112g) salted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 24 ounces (678g) cream cheese, room temperature
• 1 cup (207g) sugar
• 3 tbsp (24g) all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup (173g) sour cream, room temperature
• 1 1/2 tbsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 3 large eggs, room temperature

For the Caramel Apple Topping

• 2 large apples, chopped
• 1/4 cup (56g) light brown sugar, packed
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
• sprinkle of lemon juice
• 1/2 cup (120ml) caramel sauce

For the Whipped Cream Topping

• 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy whipping cream, cold
• 1/4 cup (29g) powdered sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon

How to Make Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter. Mix until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth using an electric mixer. Gradually add in sugar and flour while continuing to mix. Then add sour cream, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and eggs one at a time until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Assemble the Bars

Pour half of the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust. Scatter chopped apples on top of this layer. Drizzle with caramel sauce before adding the remaining cheesecake filling on top.

Step 4: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes or until set in the center. Allow to cool completely before refrigerating for at least four hours.

Step 5: Prepare Whipped Cream

In a mixing bowl, whip cold heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until soft peaks form.

Step 6: Serve

Cut into squares once chilled. Top each serving with whipped cream and additional caramel sauce if desired. Enjoy your delicious Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars!

How to Serve Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are perfect for any gathering or special occasion. They are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them an ideal dessert for sharing with friends and family.

For a Festive Touch

• Garnish with Extra Caramel: Drizzle additional caramel sauce on top for a more indulgent treat.
• Add Sliced Apples: Fresh apple slices on the side can enhance the presentation and flavor.

With a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that complements the cheesecake’s flavors beautifully.
• Cinnamon Ice Cream: This adds an extra touch of warmth and spice, perfect for fall.

As a Coffee Companion

• Serve with Coffee: Pairing these bars with a hot cup of coffee creates a delightful contrast.
• Espresso or Cappuccino: The rich flavors of espresso can enhance the taste of the cheesecake.

For a Brunch Delight

• Serve at Brunch: These bars are excellent for brunch, combining sweetness with savory dishes.
• Pair with Mimosas: Light and refreshing, mimosas balance the richness of the cheesecake.

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How to Perfect Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

To ensure your Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing cream cheese and eggs to room temperature helps create a smoother filling.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until combined to avoid incorporating too much air, which can lead to cracks.
• Pre-bake Your Crust: A quick bake before adding the filling ensures a crisp base that holds up well.
• Cool Gradually: Allow the bars to cool in the oven with the door ajar to prevent cracking from sudden temperature changes.
• Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate for at least four hours to set properly; overnight is even better!

Best Side Dishes for Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

These Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Spiced Nuts: Roasted nuts seasoned with cinnamon and sugar add a crunchy contrast to the creamy bars.
2. Fruit Salad: A light mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and balances the richness of the cheesecake.
3. Cheese Platter: Include sharp cheeses like cheddar or brie for a savory element alongside the sweet dessert.
4. Mini Pumpkin Pies: These bring in fall flavors and make for an appealing variety on your dessert table.
5. Chocolate Ganache Tart: The decadence of chocolate pairs well, creating a rich dessert experience.
6. Apple Cider Donuts: These provide a fun fall twist that echoes the apple notes in your cheesecake bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars, avoiding common errors can elevate your dessert to the next level. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can introduce air into the cheesecake, leading to cracks. Mix just until combined for a smooth texture.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold cream cheese or sour cream can create lumps in your filling. Always use room temperature ingredients for a creamy consistency.
• Skipping the cooling time: Patience is key! Allowing the bars to cool completely helps set them properly and enhances their flavor.
• Not prepping the pan: Failing to line your baking dish can lead to sticking. Always use parchment paper or grease your pan well before pouring in the batter.
• Ignoring the oven temperature: Oven temperatures vary, and baking at the wrong temperature can affect cooking time and texture. Invest in an oven thermometer for accuracy.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, where they can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), then reheat the bars for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in 15-second intervals until warm, being careful not to overcook.
• Stovetop: Place a bar in a skillet on low heat, covering it with a lid for about 5 minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars.

Can I use different types of apples?

Yes! You can use any variety of apple; Granny Smith adds tartness while Honeycrisp offers sweetness. Choose based on your taste preference.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Substitute graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free options like almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs.

Can I add nuts?

Absolutely! Chopped pecans or walnuts would add a wonderful crunch and flavor that pairs well with caramel and apples.

Are Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars suitable for special occasions?

Yes! These bars are perfect for holidays, parties, or any gathering where you want to impress guests with a delicious dessert.

Final Thoughts

Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars blend creamy cheesecake with sweet caramel and crunchy apples, making them a delightful treat. They are versatile too; feel free to customize toppings or mix-ins according to your preferences. Try these bars today and enjoy a comforting dessert experience!

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Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

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• Author: Dina
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 12 bars 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars! These irresistible dessert bars marry the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweetness of caramel and tartness of apples, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or simply craving something sweet, these bars are sure to impress your guests. With simple preparation steps and a satisfying texture, you’ll find them both easy to make and hard to resist. Serve them warm or chilled with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special touch!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 1/4 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 3 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup salted butter, melted
• 24 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
• 1 cup sugar
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup sour cream, room temperature
• 1 1/2 tbsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 large apples, chopped
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
• sprinkle of lemon juice
• 1/2 cup caramel sauce
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Press into the bottom of the baking dish.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then mix in sugar, flour, sour cream, vanilla, and eggs until combined.
4. Pour half of the cheesecake filling over the crust. Add chopped apples and drizzle caramel before topping with remaining filling.
5. Bake for about 50 minutes or until set. Cool completely and refrigerate for at least four hours before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 square (90g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 25g
• Sodium: 270mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 80mg