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Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are a delightful fusion of flavors that perfectly captures the essence of fall. Imagine the creamy richness of cheesecake combined with the sweet and slightly tart notes of fresh apples, all drizzled with luscious caramel and set atop a buttery graham cracker crust. These bars are not just a dessert; they are an experience that evokes warm memories of autumn gatherings, family celebrations, and cozy evenings spent indoors.

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Experience the delicious blend of flavors in Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars, a perfect fall treat. This dessert marries creamy cheesecake with fresh apples and rich caramel, all resting on a buttery graham cracker crust. Ideal for gatherings or cozy nights, these bars are sure to impress. In this article, you'll find a detailed recipe and tips covering each key ingredient and technique, setting you up to create this mouthwatering dessert that celebrates the essence of autumn.
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Ingredients
  

For the crust:

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

½ cup unsalted butter, melted

¼ cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the cheesecake filling:

16 oz cream cheese, softened

¾ cup granulated sugar

½ cup sour cream

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon lemon juice

For the apple layer:

2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)

1 tablespoon lemon juice

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the caramel sauce:

½ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

For garnish:

Whipped cream (optional)

Additional caramel sauce (drizzled on top, optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, granulated sugar, and cinnamon. Mix until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and let it cool slightly.

    Make the cheesecake filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add in the granulated sugar, mixing until combined. Add the sour cream, eggs, vanilla extract, and lemon juice; mix until all ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture is smooth.

      Prepare the apple layer: In a separate bowl, toss the diced apples with lemon juice, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well coated. Set aside.

        Assemble the bars: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Spoon the prepared apple mixture on top of the cheesecake filling in an even layer. Drizzle the caramel sauce over the apples, using a knife or toothpick to swirl it gently into the apple layer for a marbled effect.

          Bake the bars: Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and crack the door open, allowing the cheesecake to cool in the oven for 30 minutes. This helps prevent cracking.

            Cool and chill: Remove from the oven and let the bars cool to room temperature. Afterward, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to firm up before cutting.

              Serve: Once chilled, cut the cheesecake into bars. Top with whipped cream and additional caramel sauce if desired. Enjoy!

                Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 6 hours (including chilling) | Servings: 12