Hello, fellow foodies! Emily here, from Delish Map, and I have a confession: I am a sucker for caramel apples. There’s just something about that sweet, gooey caramel combined with the crisp tartness of apples that screams fall to me. And cheesecake? Don’t even get me started! So, naturally, I just had to find a way to combine all of these flavors into one amazing dessert.
And that’s how these Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars came to life! This recipe takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes, including prep and bake time, and every minute is so worth it! Get ready for a delicious ride as I show you how to make these dreamy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe
I’m so excited to share this recipe with you. I think you’ll love it as much as I do! Here’s why I think my version stands out:
- Perfect Combination of Textures: The buttery shortbread crust, creamy cheesecake filling, soft apple layer, and crunchy streusel topping all come together in perfect harmony.
- Easy to Make Ahead: These bars are fantastic for making ahead of time, which makes them perfect for parties or when you just want a sweet treat ready to go.
- Impressive for Gatherings: These bars are always a crowd-pleaser and look stunning on any dessert table. The caramel drizzle adds that extra touch of elegance.
- That Streusel Topping: Trust me, it’s the best part!
Ingredients for Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe
For the best results, using high-quality ingredients really makes a difference. I like to buy the best I can afford, especially when it comes to baking. Let’s break down what you’ll need for each layer.
Shortbread Crust Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
- 1 cup vegetable shortening
These three simple ingredients are essential for creating a tender and crumbly base that perfectly complements the other layers.
Cheesecake Layer Ingredients
- 3 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Full-fat cream cheese is definitely the way to go here. It gives you that rich, decadent cheesecake texture we all know and love.
Apple Filling Ingredients
- 3 Granny Smith apples (peeled, cored and finely chopped, (about 3 cups))
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Make sure to peel, core, and finely chop those Granny Smith apples! They bring the perfect tartness and texture to balance the sweetness of the caramel and cheesecake.
Streusel Topping Ingredients
- 1 cup firmly packed brown sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup quick cooking oats
- 1/2 cup vegetable shortening
The oats add a delightful, slightly chewy texture to the topping, creating a wonderful contrast to the other layers.
Caramel Drizzle Ingredients
- 1/2 cup caramel topping
This is for drizzling after the bars are baked. Feel free to use your favorite store-bought caramel or try making your own homemade version for an extra special touch.
How to Make Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars: Step-by-Step Instructions
Alright, let’s get baking! Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll be enjoying these bars in no time.
Step 1: Prepare the Shortbread Crust
In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups all-purpose flour and 1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar. Cut in 1 cup vegetable shortening with a pastry blender or food processor (or 2 forks) until mixture is crumbly. I sometimes like to use my hands at the end to make sure everything is fully incorporated. Press the mixture evenly into a 9×13 baking pan that is greased or lined with heavy-duty aluminum foil or parchment. Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly browned. The crust should be golden brown around the edges.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat 3 (8 ounce) packages of softened cream cheese with 3/4 cup sugar in an electric mixer at medium speed until smooth. Make sure that cream cheese is nice and soft, otherwise you’ll end up with lumps in your filling. Then, add 3 large eggs, one at a time, and 1 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Stir to combine. Pour the mixture over the warm crust.
Step 3: Prepare the Apple Filling
In a small bowl, stir together 3 cups of chopped apples, 2 tablespoons of sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg. Spoon the mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer, making sure the apples are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Make the Streusel Topping
For the streusel topping, in a small bowl, combine 1 cup firmly packed brown sugar, 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup quick cooking oats, and 1/2 cup vegetable shortening. I like to really combine it by using my clean hands to thoroughly combine the vegetable shortening into the mixture. Do not use a food processor for this step, because it will grind up the oats and you will lose that great texture!
Step 5: Bake the Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
Sprinkle the Streusel topping evenly over the apples. Bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F for 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is set. The filling should be set but still slightly jiggly. Let the bars come to room temperature, then store in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can freeze them for up to 4 months.
Step 6: Add the Caramel Drizzle and Serve
Drizzle with 1/2 cup caramel topping and let cool completely. You can warm the caramel slightly to make it easier to drizzle. Serve cold and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Here are some tips I’ve learned over the years to help you make these bars absolutely perfect!
- Crust Too Hard: Make sure you aren’t overbaking the crust. It should be lightly browned, not dark brown.
- Cheesecake Cracking: Avoid overbaking the cheesecake layer. It should be set but still slightly jiggly. Also, let the bars cool gradually.
- Streusel Burning: Keep an eye on the streusel topping. If it starts to brown too quickly, tent the pan with foil.
- Softening Cream Cheese Quickly: If you forget to soften your cream cheese, you can place the wrapped packages in a bowl of warm water for about 15-20 minutes.
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
Sometimes you need to make a few tweaks based on what you have on hand or dietary restrictions. Here are a few ideas:
| Ingredient/Layer | Substitution/Variation | Impact on Result |
|---|---|---|
| All-Purpose Flour | Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour Blend | May require slight adjustments to liquid; texture might be slightly different. |
| Cream Cheese | Vegan Cream Cheese Alternative (e.g., Tofutti, Kite Hill) | Flavor and texture will differ; choose a brand known for baking well. |
| Vegetable Shortening | Coconut Oil (melted) or Vegan Butter | Flavor will change slightly; coconut oil may impart a subtle coconut taste. |
| Granny Smith Apples | Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji Apples | Sweetness and texture of the filling will be affected; adjust sugar accordingly. |
| Caramel Topping | Homemade Salted Caramel Sauce, Bourbon Caramel Sauce, or Date Caramel (vegan) | Flavor profile will be significantly altered; homemade sauces allow for customization of sweetness and saltiness. |
Make Ahead and Storage Instructions
These bars are great for making ahead! You can make the shortbread crust and streusel topping separately and store them in airtight containers at room temperature for up to 2 days. The apple filling can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. For another make-ahead dessert, check out this recipe for The Amazing Knock You Naked Bars Recipe.
Once the bars are baked, they can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 4 months. To freeze, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge. Freezing may slightly alter the texture of the cheesecake layer, but they will still taste amazing!
Serving and Presentation Ideas
For holiday gatherings, I like to cut the bars into small squares and arrange them on a tiered dessert stand. Dusting them lightly with powdered sugar adds an elegant touch. For potlucks, simply arrange the bars on a platter and drizzle with extra caramel sauce.
To get perfect bars, chill them well before cutting and use a warm knife. Serve these bars with a cup of hot coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat! If you need a drink recipe, you might enjoy this Ultimate Spiced Tea Recipe with Tang!
What are the Best Apples to Use?
Choosing the right apples can really make or break this recipe. Granny Smith apples are my go-to because they provide a tartness that balances the sweetness of the caramel and cheesecake. However, you can experiment with other varieties.
- Tart Apples: Granny Smith, Braeburn, and Pink Lady apples will give you a tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the cheesecake.
- Sweet Apples: Honeycrisp, Gala, and Fuji apples will add extra sweetness. You may want to reduce the amount of sugar in the apple filling if using these.
Using a tart apple provides a nice contrast to the sweet caramel and creamy cheesecake, while a sweet apple will create an overall sweeter dessert. According to Harvard’s Nutrition Source, apples offer about 95 calories.
FAQs about Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Here are some common questions I get about making these bars:
Can I use a pre-made caramel sauce?
Yes, you can definitely use a pre-made caramel sauce! I recommend using a high-quality brand like Ghirardelli or Trader Joe’s Fleur de Sel Caramel Sauce.
How do I prevent the cheesecake layer from cracking?
To prevent cracking, avoid overbaking the cheesecake layer. It should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Also, let the bars cool gradually in the oven with the door slightly ajar to prevent a sudden temperature change.
What is the best way to soften cream cheese quickly?
The best way to soften cream cheese quickly is to cut it into small cubes and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave it in 15-second intervals, being careful not to melt it.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can double this recipe! Use a 12×17 inch baking pan and increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes.
Could I add nuts to these?
Absolutely! Chopped pecans or walnuts would be a delicious addition to the streusel topping or sprinkled over the caramel drizzle.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this ahead of time. The bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 4 months. These bars are great option if you are looking for treats and drinks.
Conclusion
So, there you have it, my friend, the Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars recipe of your dreams! This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible, and I know you’re going to love them.
Now, I want to hear from you! Have you tried this recipe? What are your favorite variations? Let me know in the comments below! And if you make these bars, be sure to share a photo and tag me on social media. I can’t wait to see your delicious creations!
The Amazing Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups all-purpose flour and 1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar. Cut in 1 cup vegetable shortening with a pastry blender or food processor (or 2 forks) until mixture is crumbly. I sometimes like to use my hands at the end to make sure everything is fully incorporated. Press the mixture evenly into a 9×13 baking pan that is greased or lined with heavy-duty aluminum foil or parchment. Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly browned. The crust should be golden brown around the edges.
- In a large bowl, beat 3 (8 ounce) packages of softened cream cheese with 3/4 cup sugar in an electric mixer at medium speed until smooth. Make sure that cream cheese is nice and soft, otherwise you’ll end up with lumps in your filling. Then, add 3 large eggs, one at a time, and 1 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Stir to combine. Pour the mixture over the warm crust.
- In a small bowl, stir together 3 cups of chopped apples, 2 tablespoons of sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg. Spoon the mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer, making sure the apples are evenly distributed.
- For the streusel topping, in a small bowl, combine 1 cup firmly packed brown sugar, 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup quick cooking oats, and 1/2 cup vegetable shortening. I like to really combine it by using my clean hands to thoroughly combine the vegetable shortening into the mixture. Do not use a food processor for this step, because it will grind up the oats and you will lose that great texture!
- Sprinkle the Streusel topping evenly over the apples. Bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F for 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is set. The filling should be set but still slightly jiggly. Let the bars come to room temperature, then store in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can freeze them for up to 4 months.
- Drizzle with 1/2 cup caramel topping and let cool completely. You can warm the caramel slightly to make it easier to drizzle. Serve cold and enjoy!
Notes
- Crust Too Hard: Make sure you aren’t overbaking the crust. It should be lightly browned, not dark brown.
- Cheesecake Cracking: Avoid overbaking the cheesecake layer. It should be set but still slightly jiggly. Also, let the bars cool gradually.
- Streusel Burning: Keep an eye on the streusel topping. If it starts to brown too quickly, tent the pan with foil.
- Softening Cream Cheese Quickly: If you forget to soften your cream cheese, you can place the wrapped packages in a bowl of warm water for about 15-20 minutes.
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