Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are the perfect blend of creamy, sweet, and tart. This dessert combines the smooth richness of cheesecake with the spiced, tender chunks of caramelized apples and a buttery streusel topping. Perfect for fall gatherings or any time you crave a cozy treat, these bars capture the essence of caramel-dipped apples in a decadent, layered form. The combination of flavors is enhanced with a drizzle of warm caramel, making each bite a blissful balance of textures and taste.

Ingredients

Crust

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Layer

• 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Apple Layer

• 2 large apples, peeled and chopped (use tart varieties like Granny Smith)
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg

Streusel Topping

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup quick oats
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

Caramel Drizzle

• 1/2 cup store-bought or homemade caramel sauce

Instructions

1. Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, mix the flour and brown sugar, then stir in the melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture into the prepared baking pan, spreading evenly to form the crust. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden. Set aside to cool.
2. Make the cheesecake layer: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. Pour this mixture over the cooled crust and spread evenly.
3. Prepare the apple layer: In a separate bowl, combine the chopped apples, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Sprinkle the apple mixture over the cheesecake layer.
4. Add the streusel topping: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and oats. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture is crumbly. Sprinkle the streusel over the apple layer.
5. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the cheesecake is set and the top is golden.
6. Cool and serve: Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature. Drizzle with caramel sauce before slicing into bars. For best results, refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

These caramel apple cheesecake bars are best enjoyed chilled, showcasing a perfect balance of tart apples, creamy cheesecake, and a sweet, buttery crunch.