Learn how to make Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars, the perfect dessert for any occasion! This recipe is not only simple and delicious but also offers a delightful blend of flavors that everyone will love. With its creamy cinnamon cheesecake filling, crunchy graham cracker crust, and a luscious caramel apple topping, these bars are sure to impress at parties or family gatherings.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: No springform pan or water bath needed, making it perfect for novice bakers.
Decadent Flavor: The combination of cheesecake, apples, and caramel creates an irresistible dessert.
Versatile: Great for fall celebrations, Halloween treats, or as a sweet addition to Thanksgiving dinner.
Make Ahead: These bars can be prepared in advance, saving you time on busy days.
Crowd-Pleaser: With 14 servings, they are ideal for sharing with friends and family.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the baking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowls
9×13 inch baking dish
Electric mixer
Measuring cups and spoons
Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess.
Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming together the cheesecake filling.
Baking dish: A 9×13 inch pan is perfect for even baking of the cheesecake bars.

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 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

For the Whipped Cream Topping

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

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, cinnamon, and melted butter until well mixed.
Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In another bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth using an electric mixer.
Gradually add in sugar and flour; mix until combined.
Add sour cream, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and eggs one at a time. Beat until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Assemble Bars with Apples

Pour half of the cheesecake filling over the crust.
In a separate bowl, toss chopped apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Spread over the cheesecake filling.
Pour remaining cheesecake filling over apples and smooth out.

Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake Bars

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

Step 5: Prepare Whipped Cream Topping

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

Step 6: Serve Your Bars

Once chilled and set, cut into squares. Drizzle with caramel sauce before serving. Top each square with a dollop of whipped cream. Enjoy your Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars!

How to Serve Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

These Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy dinner at home, serving them right can enhance the experience.

Make It Festive

Add Whipped Cream: Top each bar with a dollop of homemade whipped cream for added richness.
Garnish with Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for a crunchy texture.

Pair with Ice Cream

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the flavors beautifully.
Cinnamon Ice Cream: This adds an extra layer of warmth and spice to the dessert.

Serve with Drinks

Coffee: A warm cup of coffee balances out the sweetness of the cheesecake bars.
Hot Apple Cider: For fall gatherings, hot apple cider makes a cozy pairing.

Create a Dessert Platter

Mix with Other Desserts: Include brownies, cookies, and fruit tarts on a platter for variety.
Add Fresh Fruit: Slices of fresh apples or pears can add color and freshness to your presentation.

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: This helps in achieving a smooth cheesecake filling without lumps.
Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks in your cheesecake.
Chill Thoroughly: Let the bars cool completely before refrigerating to set properly.
Cut with Warm Knife: Dip your knife in hot water and wipe it dry between cuts for clean slices.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses pairs well with sweet desserts and provides a savory contrast.
Charcuterie Board: Salty meats and pickled vegetables can balance out the sweetness of the bars.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate between bites.
Pumpkin Spice Bread: The warm spices complement the flavors in the cheesecake bars nicely.
Chocolate Fondue: Dip fruits or pretzels into chocolate for an indulgent treat alongside your bars.
Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts add crunch and a savory note that contrasts beautifully with dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars can be a breeze, but a few common mistakes can ruin your dessert. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Skipping Room Temperature Ingredients: Using cold cream cheese or eggs can lead to a lumpy filling. Always ensure they are at room temperature for a smooth texture.
Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can incorporate air into the cheesecake, causing cracks. Mix just until combined for the best results.
Not Prepping Your Pan: Failing to grease your baking dish can cause sticking. Always line your pan with parchment paper and grease it well.
Ignoring the Cooling Time: Cutting into the bars too soon can result in a messy slice. Allow them to cool completely before serving for cleaner edges.
Using Too Much Filling: Overfilling the pan may cause spillage during baking. Stick to the recommended amount of filling for perfect results.
Neglecting Flavor Balancing: Not tasting your batter before baking can lead to an unbalanced flavor. Always taste and adjust sweetness or spice as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
These bars last up to 5 days in the fridge.
For best flavor, consume within 2-3 days.

Freezing Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap.
Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes for best texture.
Microwave: Heat on low power in 15-second intervals until warmed through.
Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat with a lid, warming gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use different fruits?

Yes! You can substitute other fruits like pears or berries based on your preference.

How do I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs instead of regular ones for a gluten-free version.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars store well and taste even better after resting overnight in the fridge.

What if I don’t have caramel sauce?

You can substitute with chocolate sauce or even fruit preserves for a different flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

These Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are not only delicious but also customizable! You can experiment with different toppings or spices based on your mood. Perfect for any occasion, they will surely impress friends and family alike. Try making them today!

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Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

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Author: Tina
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: Approximately 14 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars, a dessert that beautifully blends creamy cheesecake and sweet caramel apples. This quick and simple recipe is perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs looking to impress at gatherings. With a crunchy graham cracker crust, a rich cinnamon cheesecake filling, and a luscious caramel apple topping, these bars are not just a treat but an experience. Ideal for fall celebrations, holiday dinners, or cozy nights in, they are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Prepare them ahead of time for stress-free entertaining and enjoy their delightful flavors that perfectly capture the essence of autumn.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
In mixing bowls, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter; press into the bottom of the dish.
Beat cream cheese until smooth; add sugar and flour. Incorporate sour cream, vanilla, eggs one at a time.
Pour half the cheesecake filling over the crust. Toss chopped apples with brown sugar and spices; spread over filling. Pour remaining filling on top.
Bake for about 50 minutes or until set in the center. Cool completely before refrigerating for at least four hours.
Whip cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form; stir in vanilla and cinnamon.
Cut into squares, drizzle with caramel sauce, and top with whipped cream. Serve chilled.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American