Welcome to the delightful world of Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars, where the classic flavors of autumn come together in one decadent dessert. These bars combine a buttery crust, creamy cheesecake, spiced apples, and a crumbly streusel topping, all drizzled with rich caramel. Perfect for cozy gatherings, holiday feasts, or whenever you crave a sweet treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Layered Flavors: Each layer offers a different texture and taste, creating a harmonious blend in every bite.
- Seasonal Delight: Embrace the essence of fall with the classic combination of apple and caramel.
- Crowd-Pleaser: These bars are sure to impress at any event or family gathering.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 3/4 cup (12 tablespoons) cold butter, cubed
For the Cheesecake:
- 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
For the Apples:
- 3 Granny Smith apples, peeled and chopped small
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
For the Streusel Topping:
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup quick cooking oats
- 5 tablespoons cold butter, cubed
Additional:
- Caramel syrup for drizzling (about 1/3 cup)
Instructions
Preparing the Dish:
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×13 baking pan with cooking spray or line with parchment paper.
- Make Crust: Combine flour, brown sugar, and cold butter in a small bowl. Mix until crumbly and press into the baking pan. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until lightly browned.
Creating the Cheesecake Layer:
- Mix Ingredients: While the crust is baking, beat together cream cheese, sugar, vanilla, and eggs until smooth and combined.
- Add Apples: Toss the chopped apples with sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until coated.
- Layer: Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooked crust, spreading evenly. Sprinkle the spiced apples on top.
Adding Streusel Topping:
- Prepare Streusel: Combine flour, brown sugar, oats, and cold butter until the mixture is crumbly. Sprinkle evenly over the apples.
- Bake: Cook for 25-30 minutes until the edges are set and the middle is slightly firm.
- Cool & Drizzle: Remove from the oven, cool on a rack, and drizzle with caramel sauce. Let cool at room temperature for 1 hour, then refrigerate for 3 hours.
FAQ
Q: Can I use a different type of apple?
A: Yes, while Granny Smith apples are recommended for their tartness and firmness, feel free to use any baking apple you prefer.
Q: How do I store the leftover bars?
A: Keep the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Q: Can I freeze these bars?
A: Yes, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars offer a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. With their crumbly crust, creamy filling, spiced apples, and a streusel topping all drizzled in caramel, these bars are a perfect treat for any occasion. So why wait? Preheat your oven and get ready to bake a batch of these irresistible treats!
