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caramel apple cheesecake

Irresistible Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars for Fall Gatherings

These caramel apple cheesecake bars combine creamy cheesecake, spiced apples, and a buttery crust, perfect for fall gatherings.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Cooling Time 2 hours
Total Time 3 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

Crust
  • 1 cup All-Purpose Flour Can replace with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
  • 1/2 cup Brown Sugar Use light for a milder flavor or dark for richer caramel notes.
  • 1/2 cup Butter Opt for unsalted or vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
Cheesecake Layer
  • 8 oz Cream Cheese Full-fat is best for flavor and consistency.
  • 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar Coconut sugar can be a less refined alternative.
  • 2 large Eggs Recommended for best results.
  • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract Use vanilla bean paste for a more intense aroma.
Apple Topping
  • 3 medium Granny Smith Apples Feel free to use any tart apple variety.
  • 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon Freshly ground cinnamon ensures a vibrant flavor.
  • 1/4 tsp Ground Nutmeg Allspice works as a nice alternative.
Streusel Topping
  • 1/2 cup Quick Cooking Oats Rolled oats can also deliver a delightful texture.
  • 1/4 cup Caramel Topping Homemade caramel can elevate this dessert even further!

Equipment

  • 9x13 baking pan
  • medium bowl
  • Large bowl
  • Electric mixer
  • spatula
  • pastry cutter

Method
 

Make the Bars
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine all-purpose flour and brown sugar. Cut in softened butter until resembling coarse crumbs. Press evenly into the bottom of a greased or parchment-lined 9x13 baking pan. Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly browned.
  2. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well, then stir in vanilla extract. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust, spreading evenly.
  3. In a small bowl, toss chopped Granny Smith apples with sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well coated. Spoon the apple mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer.
  4. In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar, all-purpose flour, oats, and melted butter until crumbly. Sprinkle generously over the apple layer.
  5. Bake for 40-45 minutes until filling is set with a slight jiggle. Cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Drizzle with caramel topping before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1barCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 3gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing for cleaner cuts. Experiment with different apple varieties and consider adding nuts to the streusel for unique flavor textures.

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