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Cheesecake has long held a special place in the hearts of dessert lovers around the world, celebrated for its rich, creamy texture and versatile flavor profile. Dessert bars, on the other hand, have gained popularity over the years for their ease of serving and delightful portability. Now, imagine a dessert that marries the best of both worlds: the lusciousness of cheesecake and the convenience of a bar. Enter the Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars—a delightful twist that tantalizes the taste buds with the perfect combination of creamy cheesecake, sweet caramel, and tart apples.

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Discover the perfect blend of flavors with Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars, a delightful twist on classic cheesecake. These easy-to-make dessert bars feature a buttery crust, creamy cheesecake filling, tart apples, and a luscious caramel drizzle. Ideal for potlucks, holidays, or cozy gatherings, they balance sweetness and richness in every bite. Impress your guests with this seasonal treat that captures the essence of autumn in each delicious layer!
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Ingredients
  

For the Crust:

1 cup graham cracker crumbs

1/4 cup sugar

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

16 oz cream cheese, softened

3/4 cup sugar

2 large eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 tsp cinnamon

1/4 tsp nutmeg

For the Apple Layer:

2 cups apples, peeled, cored, and diced (about 2 medium apples)

1/4 cup brown sugar

1 tsp cinnamon

1 tbsp lemon juice

For the Caramel Sauce:

1/2 cup sugar

2 tbsp butter

1/4 cup heavy cream

1/4 tsp salt

1/2 tsp vanilla extract

For Topping (optional):

Additional caramel sauce for drizzling

Whipped cream (for serving)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

    Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Bake for 8-10 minutes until slightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool.

      Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until fully incorporated.

        Prepare the Apple Mixture: In another bowl, combine the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Toss until the apples are well coated.

          Assemble the Bars: Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the cooled crust. Evenly distribute the apple mixture on top of the cheesecake filling. Use a knife to gently swirl the apples into the cheesecake filling for a marbled effect.

            Bake the Bars: Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and crack the oven door, letting the bars cool inside for about 1 hour. This helps prevent cracking.

              Make the Caramel Sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt sugar, stirring constantly until it becomes an amber color. Remove from heat and quickly add butter, heavy cream, and salt, stirring until smooth. Stir in vanilla extract. Let cool slightly.

                Finish the Bars: Drizzle the warm caramel sauce over the cooled cheesecake bars. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares.

                  Serve: Remove the bars from the baking dish using the parchment overhang. Cut into squares and serve with additional caramel sauce and whipped cream if desired.

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 30 mins | 4 hrs | 16 bars