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Close-up of a caramel apple cheesecake bar with caramel sauce pooling on a white plate

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Creamy cheesecake, cinnamon-spiced apples, a buttery graham cracker crust, and a sweet caramel drizzle. Make them ahead, chill, and slice into 24 easy-to-share bars for fall gatherings, potlucks, and holiday dessert tables.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Chill Time 4 hours
Total Time 5 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 24 bars
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

Graham Cracker Crust
  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Cheesecake Filling
  • 24 oz cream cheese softened (three 8 oz blocks)
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
Cinnamon Apple Topping
  • 3 medium apples peeled and diced small
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon butter melted
  • 1/2 cup caramel sauce for drizzling

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking pan
  • Electric mixer

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking pan with butter or nonstick cooking spray.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Press firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then allow to cool slightly.
  3. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined. Mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream. Avoid overmixing.
  4. In a separate bowl, toss the diced apples with the brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and melted butter until evenly coated.
  5. Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust and spread evenly. Distribute the cinnamon apple mixture over the top.
  6. Bake for approximately 35–45 minutes, until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle. Avoid overbaking.
  7. Allow the cheesecake to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, until fully chilled.
  8. Run a thin knife around the edges of the pan. Cut into 24 bars using a sharp knife, wiping the blade between cuts. Carefully lift out each bar with a small spatula. Drizzle with caramel sauce just before serving.

Notes

Best apples: Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Pink Lady apples work well.
Make ahead: Prepare the bars the night before your gathering. Add the caramel drizzle just before serving.
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Because these bars contain cream cheese and eggs, refrigerate leftovers promptly and do not leave them at room temperature for more than 2 hours.