Introduction

These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are the perfect easy treat for any occasion. With a creamy cheesecake layer, spiced apples, and a buttery streusel topping, they deliver classic fall flavors in a simple, shareable form. If you enjoy apple desserts, you might also like these Cinnamon Applesauce Muffins Recipe or the Mini Pineapple Upside-Down Cheesecakes Recipe.

Ingredients

These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars combine a buttery graham cracker crust, velvety cream cheese filling, and sweet-spiced apple pecan topping for the perfect easy treat.

• 14 graham crackers
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2-3 apples, diced (about 2 cups)
• 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 24 ounces (3 packages) cream cheese, room temperature
• 1/2 cup sour cream, room temperature
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 3 eggs, room temperature
• 3-4 tablespoons caramel sauce

Timing

Context: These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are about 25% faster than similar recipes, making them the perfect easy treat.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and a bit of sugar. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a parchment-lined 9×13-inch baking pan. Bake for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden and set.

Step 2 — Make the Cheesecake Layer

While the crust cools slightly, beat softened cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and eggs in a large bowl until smooth and creamy. Spread this cheesecake filling evenly over the prepared crust.

Step 3 — Prepare the Apple Topping

Peel and thinly slice 2–3 medium apples. Toss the apple slices with lemon juice, cinnamon, and a tablespoon of flour to help absorb excess moisture and prevent sogginess.

Step 4 — Assemble the Bars

Arrange the spiced apple slices in an even layer over the cheesecake filling. Press them gently into the batter so they bake into the bars rather than sitting on top.

Step 5 — Bake to Perfection

Bake at 350°F for 30–35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center only jiggles slightly. The apples should be tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 6 — Cool Completely

Let the pan cool on a wire rack to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to allow the cheesecake layer to firm up before slicing.

Step 7 — Add Caramel Drizzle

Once chilled, lift the bars from the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Drizzle generously with caramel sauce just before serving for the best texture and presentation.

Step 8 — Slice and Serve

Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between cuts to create neat, clean slices. These caramel apple cheesecake bars are the perfect easy treat to share at gatherings or enjoy as a sweet snack.

Nutritional Information

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Greek yogurt for cream cheese — Adds protein while maintaining creamy texture with a tangy flavor.
• Almond flour crust — Provides a gluten-free, lower-carb base with nutty notes.
• Coconut sugar sweetener — Offers a lower glycemic index alternative with caramel-like undertones.
• Coconut cream dairy-free option — Creates rich, lactose-free filling that pairs well with apple.
• Reduced-sodium caramel sauce — Cuts salt content while preserving the sweet caramel flavor.
• Stevia or monk fruit — Zero-calorie sweeteners for sugar-free versions without sacrificing sweetness.
• Apple sauce instead of caramel — Natural fruit sweetness reduces added sugars while enhancing apple flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair these caramel apple cheesecake bars with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a classic dessert experience.
• Serve them warm at autumn gatherings or holiday parties for a cozy, crowd-pleasing treat.
• Drizzle extra caramel sauce over the top just before serving for an elegant, glossy finish.
• Enjoy these easy cheesecake bars with a hot cup of coffee or spiced chai tea for a delightful afternoon snack.
• Cut them into smaller, bite-sized pieces for a perfect party platter or dessert buffet option.
• Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or finely chopped toasted pecans to add texture and seasonal flavor.

These caramel apple cheesecake bars are the perfect easy treat to share with friends and family, whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or simply enjoying a sweet moment at home.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using a soggy, underbaked crust that falls apart. Fix: Pre-bake the crust until golden and let it cool completely before adding the filling.
• Mistake: Overmixing the cheesecake layer, incorporating too much air. Fix: Mix ingredients on low speed just until combined for a dense, creamy texture.
• Mistake: Adding raw, watery apples that make the bars soggy. Fix: Sauté apple slices with spices first to cook out excess moisture.
• Mistake: Spreading caramel sauce while the bars are still hot. Fix: Allow bars to cool fully so the caramel sets properly and doesn’t soak in.
• Mistake: Not lining the baking pan, making removal difficult. Fix: Use parchment paper with overhanging edges for easy, clean lifting.
• Mistake: Cutting bars before they are fully chilled and set. Fix: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, for clean, neat slices.
• Mistake: Using cold cream cheese, which creates a lumpy filling. Fix: Always bring cream cheese to room temperature for a perfectly smooth blend.
• Mistake: Baking in a pan that’s too small, causing overflow. Fix: Use the recommended 9×9 or 9×13 inch pan size for proper layering and baking.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store these caramel apple cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: For best results, let frozen bars thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Warm briefly in the microwave or a 300°F oven until just heated through, ensuring the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F for food safety.

Always allow these caramel apple cheesecake bars to cool completely before storing to maintain their perfect texture.

Conclusion

These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are the perfect easy treat for any occasion. If you enjoyed this recipe, try these other cheesecake favorites like This decadent Espresso Cheesecake is the perfect dessert for coffee and chocolate lovers or Layers of chocolate and pumpkin cheesecake come together in these dreamy bars. A fall dessert thats as stunning as it is delicious. Give this recipe a try and share your results in the comments!

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Decadent caramel apple cheesecake bars with a graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake layer, and apple pecan topping, perfect for fall and game day treats.

• Author: Jessi Heggan
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 20-24 bars 1x
• Method: Dessert
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 14 graham crackers
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2–3 apples, diced (about 2 cups)
• 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 24 ounces (3 packages) cream cheese, room temperature
• 1/2 cup sour cream, room temperature
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 3 eggs, room temperature
• 3–4 tablespoons caramel sauce

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Crush graham crackers finely and mix with melted butter, brown sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. Press mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch pan to form the crust.
3. In a bowl, combine diced apples, chopped pecans, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and 2 tablespoons sugar. Set aside.
4. In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sour cream, 1 cup sugar, vanilla extract, lemon zest and juice, and kosher salt. Mix until well combined.
5. Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated.
6. Pour cheesecake mixture over the crust and spread evenly.
7. Evenly distribute the apple pecan topping over the cheesecake layer.
8. Bake for 45 minutes or until the center is set and edges are lightly browned.
9. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
10. Before serving, drizzle with caramel sauce.

Notes

For best results, use room temperature ingredients to ensure a smooth cheesecake texture. Chill the bars thoroughly before cutting to maintain clean slices. The combination of tart apples and sweet caramel creates a perfect balance of flavors.

Nutrition

• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 25g
• Sodium: 220mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

FAQs

Can I make these caramel apple cheesecake bars ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare these caramel apple cheesecake bars in advance. They keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making them a perfect easy treat for planning ahead.