Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars: Why 1 Batch is Best
These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars feature a buttery crust, a creamy cheesecake filling, and a topping of tender sautéed apples and rich caramel sauce. Making one batch ensures perfect layers and easy, delicious results.
Equipment
- 9x13 inch baking pan
- parchment paper
- mixing bowls
- electric mixer
- skillet
- spatula
Ingredients
Crust
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar
- 0.75 cup cold butter, cubed
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Apple Topping
- 3 Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 0.25 cup brown sugar
- 0.5 teaspoon cinnamon
- 0.5 cup caramel sauce plus more for drizzling
Instructions
Crust
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Combine flour, sugar, and cold butter in a bowl, then press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 15 minutes.
Cheesecake Filling
- Beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth, then mix in eggs and vanilla extract.
- Pour the filling over the baked crust and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles.
Apple Topping
- While the cheesecake bakes, melt butter in a skillet, add diced apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon, and cook until apples are tender.
- Once the cheesecake is cooled, spread the cooked apples over the top, drizzle with caramel sauce, and refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving.
Notes
For best results, ensure cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth filling. Chill the bars thoroughly before slicing to prevent crumbling and ensure clean cuts. You can warm extra caramel sauce for drizzling just before serving.