Description
These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars combine a buttery crumb crust, creamy cheesecake filling, tender cinnamon-spiced apples, and a crunchy oat streusel topping, all drizzled with luscious caramel. Perfect for a fall dessert or any occasion, they offer a delightful blend of textures and flavors in convenient bar form.
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
- 1 cup butter, softened
Cheesecake Filling
- 3 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Apple Topping
- 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
Streusel Topping
- 1 cup firmly packed brown sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup quick cooking oats
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
Finishing
- 1/2 cup caramel topping, for drizzling after baking
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the crust and the assembled bars.
- Prepare Crust: In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups of flour and 1/2 cup brown sugar. Cut in 1 cup softened butter using a pastry blender, food processor, or two forks until the mixture becomes crumbly. Press this evenly into a greased or foil/parchment-lined 9x13 inch baking pan. Bake the crust for 15 minutes or until it is lightly browned.
- Make Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat 3 packages of softened cream cheese with 3/4 cup sugar using an electric mixer at medium speed until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition, then stir in 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract. Pour this smooth cheesecake filling over the warm baked crust.
- Prepare Apple Layer: In a small bowl, mix the finely chopped apples with 2 tablespoons sugar, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg. Spread this apple mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer.
- Make Streusel Topping: In a small bowl, combine 1 cup brown sugar, 1 cup flour, and 1/2 cup quick oats. Using clean hands, thoroughly mix in 1/2 cup softened butter until well combined and crumbly. Avoid using a food processor to preserve the oat texture. Sprinkle this streusel topping evenly over the apple layer.
- Bake Bars: Bake the assembled bars for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the cheesecake filling is set and the topping is golden. Remove from oven and allow bars to cool to room temperature.
- Finish and Serve: Once cooled, drizzle 1/2 cup caramel topping over the bars. Chill in the refrigerator before serving to let the flavors meld. Serve cold and enjoy the delicious combination of creamy cheesecake, spiced apples, crisp streusel, and rich caramel.
Notes
- Use Granny Smith apples for the best balance of tartness and texture.
- For easier cleanup, line your baking pan with heavy-duty aluminum foil or parchment paper, extending over the edges for easy lifting of bars.
- Bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, well covered.
- You can freeze the bars for up to 4 months; thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- If desired, warm the caramel topping slightly before drizzling for easier pouring.
