Introduction:
Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are a delicious dessert that combines the creaminess of cheesecake with the sweet and tart flavors of caramel apples. Featuring a buttery crust, a layer of rich cheesecake, spiced apple topping, and a generous drizzle of caramel, these bars are a perfect treat for fall or any time you’re craving a sweet indulgence.
The History of Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars:
This dessert is a modern take on classic fall flavors, combining elements of traditional apple pie and New York-style cheesecake. While apple-based desserts have been a staple in American cuisine for centuries, the trend of combining them with cheesecake and caramel sauce reflects a contemporary twist, catering to those who love rich, layered desserts.
Ingredients Breakdown:
- Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- Cheesecake Filling:
- 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Apple Topping:
- 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Caramel Sauce:
- 1/2 cup store-bought caramel sauce (or homemade)
Step-by-Step Recipe:
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared dish. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let cool.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and beat until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition, then stir in vanilla extract.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust, spreading evenly.
- Prepare the Apple Topping:
- In a separate bowl, mix diced apples with sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until coated.
- Spread the apple mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer.
- Bake the Bars:
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the cheesecake is set and the apples are tender. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Add Caramel Drizzle:
- Once chilled, drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the bars before cutting them into squares.
Tips for the Perfect Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars:
- Use Firm Apples: Choose apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a nice balance of tartness and sweetness.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth cheesecake filling.
- Chill Completely: Allow the bars to chill thoroughly for easy slicing and the best texture.
Variations and Customizations:
- Oat Crumble Topping: Add a crumbly oat topping for extra texture and flavor.
- Nut-Free Option: Omit any optional nuts to make it nut-free.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Add a chocolate drizzle alongside caramel for a richer flavor.
Health Considerations and Nutritional Value:
- High in Sugar and Fat: Due to the cream cheese, caramel, and sugary crust, these bars are high in calories and fat.
- Enjoy in Moderation: Best enjoyed as an occasional treat rather than a regular snack.
- Possible Substitutes: Use reduced-fat cream cheese and sugar substitutes for a lighter version.
FAQ:
- Can I make these bars ahead of time?
- Yes, they can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
- How should I store the leftovers?
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Can I freeze Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars?
- Yes, freeze the bars without caramel drizzle in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and add caramel before serving.
- Can I use a different crust?
- Yes, a shortbread or gingersnap crust works well for a different flavor profile.
- How do I prevent the cheesecake from cracking?
- Ensure not to overbake and allow the bars to cool slowly at room temperature before refrigerating.
Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars combine a graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake, spiced apple topping, and caramel drizzle for a decadent fall dessert. Perfect for gatherings, these bars offer a delightful blend of sweet, tart, and creamy flavors.
Ingredients
For The Graham Cracker Crust
- 9 sheets about 1 cup of crumbs
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- ¼ cup butter salted melted
For The Cheesecake
- 16 ounces cream cheese softened 2 blocks
- ½ cup sugar
- 2 eggs lightly beaten
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
For The Apple Caramel Crumb Topping
- 1 apple diced small in 1/4 inch cubes
- ¼ cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup flour
- ¼ cup rolled oats
- 3 tablespoons butter salted melted
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ cup caramel sauce
Instructions
Make The Graham Cracker Crust
- Preheat the oven to 325. Line a 8×8 square pan with aluminum foil or . Place the graham crackers in a food processor and pulse until they become crumbs.
- Add the crumbs to a large mixing bowl. Place the brown sugar and melted butter in with the crumbs. Mix together until the crumbs are no longer dry.
- Add the graham cracker crumbs into the bottom of the pan. Use a ½ cup measuring cup to press the crumbs firmly and evenly into the bottom of the pan. Bake the crust in the oven for 8 minutes then let the pan cool for at least five minutes.
Make The Cheesecake FIlling
- Whip cream cheese in a large mixing bowl until smooth with an electric mixer or stand mixer, about 2-3 minutes. Add ½ cup sugar and cream together until fully mixed.
- Add the lightly beaten eggs half at a time to the cream cheese mixture, whipping until fully mixed.
- Add the sour cream and vanilla to the cream cheese filling. Whip until smooth.
Make The Apple Caramel Crumb Topping
- In a medium-sized bowl mix together the rolled oats, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and melted butter until the oats no longer are dry. Set aside.
- Peel the apple. Dice the apple into very small pieces, about 1/4 inch cubes.
- In a second medium-sized bowl add the apples, sugar, flour and cinnamon. Mix until combined.
Layer and Bake The Bars
- Pour the cheesecake layer over the graham cracker crust in the pan, smoothing evenly with a silicone spatula. Top the cheesecake layer with the apple topping evenly. Swirl with a chopstick or butterknife to help distribute the apples more evenly in the cheesecake. Break up the crumble topping and sprinkle evenly over the apple topping.
- Bake the cheesecake bars at 325 for 65-70 minutes, until most of the moisture is gone from the center. Let cool for 20 minutes. Place in the refrigerator for 6 hours or overnight before serving. Serve with a spoonful of caramel drizzled over the top and enjoy!