Name: Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-489407H40M57S
Total time: PT-489407H40M57S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the crust:; Graham cracker crumbs; Unsalted butter, melted; For the cheesecake layer:; Cream cheese, softened; Granulated sugar; Eggs; Vanilla extract; For the apple layer:; Apples, peeled and chopped; Ground cinnamon; Brown sugar; All-purpose flour; Topping:; Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

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These caramel apple cheesecake bars are the ultimate fall dessert — rich, creamy, spiced, and topped with tender apples and a gooey caramel drizzle. With a buttery crust and layers of flavor, I find them just as comforting as a slice of pie, but even easier to serve.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how these bars combine everything I enjoy about autumn baking: tart apples, warm spices, creamy cheesecake, and golden caramel. They slice beautifully, making them perfect for potlucks, parties, or cozy nights in. Best of all, they can be made ahead of time.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

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

Directions

I preheat the oven and line a baking pan with parchment paper.
I combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter, then press the mixture into the bottom of the pan to form a crust.
In a separate bowl, I beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth, then mix in the eggs and vanilla.
I pour the cheesecake filling over the crust and smooth the top.
For the apple layer, I toss chopped apples with cinnamon, brown sugar, and flour, then spread them evenly over the cheesecake.
I bake everything until set, then let it cool completely.
Once chilled, I drizzle caramel sauce over the top before slicing into bars.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 16 bars. It takes 20 minutes to prep, around 45–50 minutes to bake, and at least 2 hours to chill before slicing and serving.

Variations

I like to swap out the apples for pears or use a combination of both. For a crunchier topping, I sometimes sprinkle chopped pecans or streusel over the apples before baking. A pinch of nutmeg or cardamom also adds a nice twist to the fall flavors.

Storage/reheating

I store these bars in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months. I let them thaw overnight in the fridge and serve chilled or at room temperature — no reheating needed.

FAQs

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, and I actually prefer to. The flavors develop more after chilling, so I usually make them the day before serving.

What kind of apples should I use?

I use firm, tart apples like Granny Smith for the best texture and flavor balance.

Can I use a different crust?

Definitely. I sometimes use crushed digestive biscuits, shortbread cookies, or even gingersnaps for the base.

How do I know when the bars are fully baked?

I look for a slightly jiggly center and firm edges. As they chill, they’ll continue to set completely.

Can I make this without caramel?

Yes. They’re still delicious without it, but I love the extra sweetness and shine it adds on top.

Conclusion

Caramel apple cheesecake bars are one of my favorite ways to bring cozy dessert vibes into the kitchen. With layers of creamy, spiced, and sweet goodness, they never last long when I serve them — and they’re always worth the effort.