Ingredients
– For the crust:
– 1 ¾ cups graham cracker crumbs
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– For the cheesecake filling:
– 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
– ¾ cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1 cup chopped apples (about 2 medium apples)
– For the caramel topping:
– 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Extra chopped apples for garnish (optional)
– Whipped cream for serving (optional)
Instructions
Creating Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars is a delightful process if you follow these simple steps:
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing it to hang over the edges for easy removal.
2. Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
3. Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then remove and let it cool slightly.
4. Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and fluffy. This should take about 2–3 minutes.
5. Add Eggs and Flavors: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then mix in the vanilla extract and cinnamon until thoroughly combined.
6. Incorporate Chopped Apples: Gently fold in the chopped apples, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the cheesecake mixture.
7. Pour Filling Over Crust: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
8. Bake the Cheesecake Bars: Bake in the oven for 35-40 minutes or until the edges are set, and the center has a slight jiggle. It will firm up as it cools.
9. Cool Bars: Once baked, remove from the oven and let the bars cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Afterward, refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best texture.
10. Add Caramel: Once chilled, cut the bars into squares or rectangles. Drizzle the caramel sauce liberally over each bar before serving.
11. Garnish (Optional): If desired, add extra chopped apples or whipped cream for presentation.
These simple steps will guide you to create the most incredible Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars that impress everyone!
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12-16 bars
- Calories: 280 kcal per bar
- Fat: 13g
- Protein: 4g