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Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
Emily

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 16 oz (two 8-oz packages) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 medium apples, peeled, cored, diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • Store-bought or homemade caramel sauce

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking pan
  • Mixing bowls (various sizes)
  • Hand or stand mixer
  • Whisk
  • Pastry cutter or fork
  • Spatula
  • Parchment paper

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until the texture resembles wet sand. Press firmly into the pan to form an even crust. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then let cool slightly.
  2. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla. Spread this cheesecake mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
  3. Toss diced apples with cinnamon, nutmeg, and sugar. Sprinkle evenly over the cheesecake layer.
  4. In a bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, and oats. Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until crumbly. Sprinkle over the apples.
  5. Bake in preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the cheesecake is set. The center may jiggle slightly but will firm up as it cools.
  6. Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or overnight, before slicing.
  7. Slice into squares and drizzle with caramel sauce just before serving.

Notes

  • Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.
  • Use parchment paper for easy removal and cleaner slices.
  • Always chill before cutting to prevent messy slices.