Introduction
Caramel apple cheesecake bars are a decadent dessert that beautifully combines the flavors of creamy cheesecake, sweet caramel, and tart apples. These bars are perfect for fall gatherings, potlucks, or simply indulging your sweet tooth. The buttery crust, creamy filling, and luscious caramel topping create a delightful treat that’s both comforting and sophisticated.
The History of
The combination of apples and caramel dates back to the early 20th century, with caramel apples becoming a popular fairground treat. Cheesecake has its roots in ancient Greece, but the modern version, particularly the no-bake variety, gained popularity in the United States in the 20th century. The fusion of these elements into cheesecake bars is a relatively modern development, appealing to those who enjoy creative dessert recipes that are easy to share and serve.
Ingredients Breakdown
- Crust:
- Graham cracker crumbs: Provides a sweet, crunchy base.
- Butter: Binds the crumbs together and adds richness.
- Sugar: Enhances the sweetness of the crust.
- Cheesecake Filling:
- Cream cheese: The main ingredient that gives the bars their creamy texture.
- Sugar: Sweetens the filling.
- Eggs: Helps to set the cheesecake.
- Vanilla extract: Adds flavor depth.
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt: Adds creaminess and a slight tang.
- Apple Topping:
- Apples: Tart varieties like Granny Smith work well.
- Brown sugar: Enhances the natural sweetness of the apples.
- Cinnamon: Adds warmth and flavor.
- Lemon juice: Brightens the apple flavor and prevents browning.
- Caramel Sauce:
- Store-bought or homemade caramel sauce: For drizzling over the bars.
Step-by-Step Recipe
Ingredients:
- For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- For the cheesecake filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- For the apple topping:
- 2 cups apples, peeled and diced
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- For the caramel sauce:
- ½ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- Make the Crust: In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until combined and press into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream until fully combined.
- Assemble the Bars: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the center is set and slightly jiggles.
- Prepare the Apple Topping: In a bowl, toss the diced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. After the cheesecake has baked for 20 minutes, remove it from the oven and evenly distribute the apple mixture on top.
- Finish Baking: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the apples are tender and the cheesecake is fully set.
- Cool and Chill: Allow the bars to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to firm up.
- Serve: Once chilled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Cut into squares and drizzle with caramel sauce before serving.
Tips for the Perfect
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow cream cheese and eggs to reach room temperature for a smoother filling.
- Don’t Overbake: The cheesecake should be slightly jiggly in the center when you remove it from the oven; it will set as it cools.
- Chill Thoroughly: Chilling the bars helps improve the texture and makes them easier to slice.
Variations and Customizations
- Nut Crust: Replace graham cracker crumbs with crushed nuts for a gluten-free option.
- Spiced Apples: Add nutmeg or allspice to the apple topping for extra flavor.
- Add Caramel Swirl: Swirl caramel sauce into the cheesecake filling before baking for a more pronounced caramel flavor.
- Toppings: Consider topping with whipped cream or crushed pecans for added texture.
Health Considerations and Nutritional Value
While delicious, caramel apple cheesecake bars are rich in calories and sugar. To make them a bit healthier:
- Reduce Sugar: Cut back on the sugar in the filling or use a sugar substitute.
- Greek Yogurt: Substitute some or all of the sour cream with Greek yogurt for added protein and fewer calories.
- Portion Control: Serve smaller squares to enjoy the flavor without overindulging.
FAQ
Q: Can I make these bars ahead of time?
A: Yes, these bars can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
Q: What type of apples work best?
A: Tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are excellent choices as they hold their shape and balance the sweetness.
Q: Can I freeze caramel apple cheesecake bars?
A: Yes, you can freeze them after chilling. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Q: How do I cut the bars cleanly?
A: Use a sharp knife and clean it between cuts for neat slices.
Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients
Crust:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
- 1 cup butter softened
Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 8 ounce packages cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Apples:
- 3 Granny Smith apples peeled, cored and finely chopped, (about 3 cups)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Streusel Topping:
- 1 cup firmly packed brown sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup quick cooking oats
- 1/2 cup butter softened
Drizzle:
- 1/2 cup caramel topping for drizzling after baked
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
- In a medium bowl, combine flour and brown sugar. Cut in butter with a pastry blender or food processor (or 2 forks) until mixture is crumbly. Press evenly into a 9×13 baking pan that is greased or lined with heavy-duty aluminum foil or parchment. Bake 15 minutes or until lightly browned.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese with 3/4 cup sugar in an electric mixer at medium speed until smooth. Then add eggs, 1 at a time, and vanilla. Stir to combine. Pour over warm crust.
- In a small bowl, stir together chopped apples, 2 tablespoons sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Spoon evenly over cream cheese mixture.
- For the streusel topping: In a small bowl, combine all ingredients. I like to really combine it by using my clean hands to thoroughly combine the butter into the mixture. You can’t use a food processor because it will grind up the oats.
- Sprinkle Streusel topping over apples. Bake 40-45 minutes, or until filling is set. Let bars come to room temperature then store in the fridge for up to 5 days. Can be frozen up to 4 months.
- Drizzle with caramel topping and let cool. Serve cold and enjoy!
