Name: Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 3 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or crushed shortbread cookies); 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and finely chopped (e.g. Granny Smith or Honeycrisp); 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1/3 cup caramel sauce (plus more for drizzling)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These bars are the perfect marriage of apple pie and cheesecake, layered into a convenient, handheld dessert. They’re easier to serve than traditional cheesecake but just as indulgent. With sweet and tart apples, warm cinnamon spices, and silky caramel sauce, every layer delivers incredible texture and flavor. Plus, they can be made ahead of time—ideal for stress-free entertaining.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Graham cracker crumbs or crushed shortbread cookies
Unsalted butter (melted)
Cream cheese (softened)
Granulated sugar
Eggs
Vanilla extract
Apples (peeled, cored, and finely chopped)
Brown sugar
Ground cinnamon
All-purpose flour (for apple mixture)
Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan to form a crust.
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust and spread evenly.
In a separate bowl, toss the chopped apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and flour until coated.
Sprinkle the apple mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer.
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are slightly golden.
Allow the bars to cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to set.
Drizzle with caramel sauce before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

Makes about 16 bars
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Chill time: 2 hours
Total time: 3 hours (including chilling)

Variations

Use a shortbread crust or vanilla wafer base instead of graham crackers.
Add a crumble topping for a streusel-like texture.
Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts with the apples for a nutty crunch.
Swap in pear for the apple to change up the fruit profile.
Use a salted caramel sauce for a more complex flavor contrast.

Storage/Reheating

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
To freeze, place sliced bars in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Best served chilled or at room temperature. Reheating is not recommended as it can alter the texture.

FAQs

Can I use canned apple pie filling?

Yes, but fresh apples provide better texture and a less processed flavor.

What type of apples should I use?

Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best for baking and hold their shape well.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! They’re perfect for making the day before an event since they need time to chill and set.

Do I have to use caramel sauce?

No, but the caramel adds a delicious finishing touch. You can leave it off or substitute with maple syrup or a cinnamon glaze.

How do I know when the cheesecake layer is done baking?

The center should be set but still slightly jiggly. It will firm up as it cools and chills.

Can I add a crumble topping?

Yes, a streusel made with oats, butter, and brown sugar adds a great texture and flavor on top.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

You can, but full-fat cream cheese yields the best texture and flavor for cheesecake.

How do I cut the bars neatly?

Chill the bars completely and use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts for smooth edges.

Should the crust be pre-baked?

No need—press it in firmly and it will bake perfectly with the cheesecake layer.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger baking pan (like a half-sheet pan) and adjust the baking time accordingly.

Conclusion

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars offer the perfect combination of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and spiced in a single dessert. Whether you’re celebrating a fall holiday or just craving something comforting and delicious, these bars are guaranteed to impress. Simple to prepare and even easier to enjoy, they’re a must-have for your seasonal dessert rotation.