Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Learn how to make Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars, a delightful dessert perfect for any occasion! With a crunchy graham cracker crust, creamy cinnamon cheesecake filling, and a luscious caramel apple topping, these bars are sure to impress family and friends. They are ideal for fall gatherings, Halloween parties, or simply as a sweet treat to enjoy at home. The best part? You can create this delicious dessert without the hassle of a springform pan or water bath!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: This recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require advanced baking skills.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of caramel, apples, and cheesecake creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for various occasions like Thanksgiving, Halloween, or just a cozy night in.
• No Special Equipment Needed: You can easily make these bars with basic kitchen tools.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 14 servings, these bars are great for gatherings and celebrations.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on your Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable.

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: Ideal for creating evenly baked cheesecake bars without the need for complicated setups.
• Electric mixer: Ensures that the cream cheese gets perfectly smooth and fluffy, which is key to a great cheesecake texture.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create your Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars:

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, and cinnamon.
• Add melted butter to the mixture. Stir until combined.
• Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
• Bake for about 10 minutes until slightly golden. Remove from oven and let cool.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

• In another bowl, beat cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth.
• Gradually add sugar and flour while mixing continuously until well incorporated.
• Add sour cream, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Mix until combined.
• Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated after each addition.

Step 3: Assemble the Bars

• Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in an even layer.
• Bake for 50 minutes or until set but still slightly jiggly in the center.

Step 4: Prepare the Caramel Apples

• While the cheesecake is baking, combine chopped apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice in a bowl. Let sit for about 15 minutes.

Step 5: Finish Baking

• Once removed from the oven, top with caramel sauce and apple mixture before cooling completely in the refrigerator for at least four hours.

Step 6: Whip Cream

• In a mixing bowl, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon while continuing to whip until stiff peaks form.

Step 7: Serve

• Cut into bars once fully chilled. Top each slice with whipped cream before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars!

How to Serve Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

These Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are perfect for any occasion. Their rich flavors can be enhanced with a variety of serving suggestions that will delight your guests.

With a Dollop of Whipped Cream

• Fresh whipped cream adds a light and airy texture that complements the dense cheesecake bars beautifully.

Drizzled with Extra Caramel Sauce

• For those who love caramel, an extra drizzle on top will intensify the sweetness and make each bite even more indulgent.

Served with Sliced Apples

• Fresh apple slices can add a crunchy contrast to the creamy cheesecake. They also provide a refreshing touch to balance the sweetness.

Accompanied by Vanilla Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream served alongside these bars creates a delightful temperature contrast and enhances the overall dessert experience.

Topped with Chopped Nuts

• Chopped pecans or walnuts provide extra crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs well with the caramel and apple filling.

Paired with Coffee or Tea

• Serving these bars with a warm cup of coffee or tea can create a cozy atmosphere, making it a perfect end to any meal.

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How to Perfect Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Achieving the perfect Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you succeed:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring your cream cheese, sour cream, and eggs are at room temperature will help create a smoother filling without lumps.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to avoid incorporating too much air. This helps prevent cracks in your cheesecake bars during baking.

• Check for Doneness: The edges should be set while the center remains slightly jiggly. It will firm up as it cools.

• Chill Thoroughly: Letting your cheesecake bars chill for several hours (or overnight) allows the flavors to meld and improves texture.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

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

1. Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes
   These sweet treats echo the flavors in the bars and make for a fun, complementary dessert option.

2. Pumpkin Spice Muffins
   The warmth of pumpkin spice muffins brings fall vibes, making them an excellent choice alongside cheesecake bars.

3. Apple Cider
   A warm cup of spiced apple cider enhances the dessert experience, creating a comforting match.

4. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses can offer savory notes that balance out the sweetness of your cheesecake bars.

5. Fruit Salad
   A fresh fruit salad made with seasonal fruits can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the bars.

6. Chocolate Covered Pretzels
   The salty-sweet combination from pretzels dipped in chocolate can make for an exciting textural addition to your plate.

7. Caramel Corn
   Sweet and crunchy caramel corn adds fun and whimsy, enhancing the overall dessert table presentation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars can be simple, but a few mistakes can lead to disappointment. Here are common pitfalls to avoid:

• Skipping the Room Temperature Ingredients: Cold cream cheese and eggs will not blend smoothly, resulting in lumps. Always let them sit out for at least 30 minutes before mixing.

• Overmixing the Batter: This can introduce too much air, causing cracks in your cheesecake. Mix just until combined for a smooth texture.

• Using the Wrong Pan Size: A pan that is too small can lead to overflowing, while one that is too large may dry out the bars. Stick to the recommended size for best results.

• Not Prepping the Baking Dish: Failing to grease or line your dish can make it difficult to remove the bars. Use parchment paper or cooking spray for easier serving.

• Ignoring Cooling Time: Cutting into your bars too soon can result in a messy presentation. Allow them to cool completely before slicing.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• These bars will last up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

• Wrap each bar in plastic wrap and then foil.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat bars for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat each bar for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars:

Can I use other fruits instead of apples?

Yes! Pears or peaches work well as alternatives and provide a delicious twist on this classic recipe.

How do I know when my cheesecake bars are done?

The edges should be set while the center remains slightly jiggly. It will firm up as it cools.

Can I make these cheesecake bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free options available at most grocery stores.

What should I serve with Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars?

These bars pair wonderfully with coffee, tea, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!

Final Thoughts

These Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with different toppings or mix-ins according to your taste. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a festive holiday dessert, these bars will surely impress everyone at your table. Give them a try, and savor the delightful combination of flavors!

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Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

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• Author: Tia
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: 14 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars, a decadent dessert that perfectly blends creamy cheesecake, sweet caramel, and tart apples. With a crunchy graham cracker crust and a luscious topping, these bars are simple to make, requiring no special equipment. They’re perfect for fall gatherings, Halloween parties, or as an everyday treat to enjoy at home. Each slice is a delightful bite of autumn flavor that will impress your family and friends without the fuss of traditional cheesecake methods.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 1/4 cups (302g) graham cracker crumbs
• 3 tbsp (39g) sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup (112g) salted butter, melted
• 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
• 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
• 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy whipping cream, cold
• 1/4 cup (29g) powdered sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl, then add melted butter and mix until combined. Press into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 10 minutes.
2. In another bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Gradually mix in sugar and flour. Add sour cream, vanilla, cinnamon, and eggs one at a time until fully incorporated.
3. Pour the filling over the cooled crust and bake for 50 minutes or until slightly jiggly in the center.
4. Mix chopped apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Let it sit for 15 minutes.
5. Once cheesecake is done baking, top with caramel sauce and apple mixture before chilling in the fridge for at least four hours.
6. Whip cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form; serve atop chilled bars.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar (85g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 22g
• Sodium: 240mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 85mg