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Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars combine a buttery shortbread base with a thick, creamy cheesecake layer and spiced Granny Smith apples. Finished with a crunchy oat streusel and a decadent caramel drizzle, they are the perfect dessert for any autumn gathering or holiday party.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Servings: 15 bars
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Shortbread Crust
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar firmly packed
  • 1 cup butter softened
Cheesecake Filling
  • 3 packages cream cheese 8 ounces each, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Apple Layer
  • 3 Granny Smith apples peeled, cored, and finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
Streusel Topping
  • 1 cup brown sugar firmly packed
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup quick-cooking oats
  • 1/2 cup butter softened
The Drizzle
  • 1/2 cup thick caramel topping

Equipment

  • 9x13 baking pan
  • Electric Mixer
  • Pastry blender
  • Mixing Bowls

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. In a medium bowl, combine the flour and brown sugar for the crust. Cut in the butter using a pastry blender or two forks until the mixture is crumbly. Press this evenly into a 9x13 baking pan (greased or lined) and bake for 15 minutes or until lightly browned.
    2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1 cup butter
  2. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and 3/4 cup sugar with an electric mixer until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla. Stir to combine and pour the mixture over the warm crust.
    3 packages cream cheese, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 3 large eggs, 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  3. In a small bowl, stir together the chopped apples, 2 tablespoons sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Spoon the seasoned apples evenly over the cream cheese layer.
    3 Granny Smith apples, 2 tbsp sugar, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  4. In a separate bowl, combine the streusel ingredients. Use your clean hands to thoroughly work the butter into the flour, sugar, and oats until it forms a crumbly texture. Sprinkle this over the apple layer.
    1 cup brown sugar, 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup quick-cooking oats, 1/2 cup butter
  5. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes until the filling is set. Allow the bars to come to room temperature, then store them in the refrigerator to chill completely.
  6. Drizzle with caramel topping just before serving and enjoy!
    1/2 cup thick caramel topping

Notes

Expert TipsTo achieve the smoothest texture, ensure your cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature before mixing.When preparing the streusel, avoid using a food processor as it will grind the oats too finely; using your hands creates those perfect, chunky crumbs.For the best flavor balance, use Granny Smith apples, as their tartness cuts through the sweetness of the caramel and cheesecake beautifully.StorageOnce cooled, these bars should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 5 days. Freezing is possible for up to 4 months (add caramel after thawing).