Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are a sweet and creamy dessert that combines the flavors of smooth cheesecake, tart Granny Smith apples, warm spices, and a touch of caramel. They provide the perfect blend of textures: the crust is crispy, the filling is rich, and the apples add a soft bite. These bars are perfect for pumpkin spice season but can be enjoyed any time of the year. Whether you are hosting a gathering or looking for a sweet treat, these bars will surely impress.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat that blends several delicious flavors. First, the creamy cheesecake brings a rich texture that melts in your mouth. Then, the Granny Smith apples add a tartness that cuts through the sweetness, creating a perfect balance. The spices, like cinnamon and nutmeg, remind you of cozy autumn days. Finally, the gooey caramel on top adds a sweet finish that brings everything together. These bars are easy to make and can be a great addition to any dessert table. You will love them for their taste and how they remind you of fall.

HOW TO MAKE Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Ingredients

To make Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars, you will need the following ingredients:

• 180 g digestive biscuits
• 70 g unsalted butter (melted)
• 320 g full-fat cream cheese (room temperature)
• 120 g granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 300 g Granny Smith apples (peeled, cored, and chopped into medium cubes)
• 20 g granulated sugar
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 3/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 100 g unsalted butter (chilled and cubed)
• 125 g plain flour
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 70 g demerara sugar
• 40 g granulated sugar
• 3 tbsp caramel sauce

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat the oven to 160°C (fan). Lightly grease an 8 x 8-inch baking pan and line it with baking paper, ensuring enough overhang to lift the bars out later. Set this aside.
2. To Make the Crust:
   • In a mixing bowl, crush the digestive biscuits into fine crumbs. You can use a food processor or a rolling pin.
   • Combine the biscuit crumbs with melted butter in the bowl. Mix until the crumbs are well coated.
   • Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. This will be your crust.
3. To Make the Cheesecake:
   • In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
   • Add the granulated sugar, salt, and vanilla extract. Continue to mix until fully combined.
   • Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
   • Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust in the prepared pan.
4. To Make the Spiced Apples:
   • In another bowl, combine the chopped Granny Smith apples with the 20 g of granulated sugar, lemon zest, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg.
   • Mix until the apples are evenly coated.
   • Spread the spiced apples evenly over the cheesecake layer.
5. To Make the Crumble Topping:
   • In a separate bowl, combine the chilled cubed butter, plain flour, ground cinnamon, demerara sugar, and granulated sugar.
   • Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Sprinkle this crumble topping evenly over the apples.
6. Bake:
   • Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set and the edges are lightly golden.
   • Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely in the pan.
7. Drizzle Caramel:
   • Once the bars are cool, drizzle the caramel sauce over the top for added sweetness and decoration.
8. Chill:
   • Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours before cutting them to ensure they firm up well.

 

 

HOW TO SERVE Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

After chilling, lift the bars out of the pan using the overhang of the baking paper. Cut them into squares with a sharp knife. Serve chilled or at room temperature. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side. A drizzle of extra caramel could be a delightful addition.

STORAGE & FREEZING: Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Store leftover cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to five days. If you want to freeze them, cut the bars first and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you are ready to enjoy them, let them thaw in the fridge overnight.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars can be served in many delicious ways. Here are some ideas:

• Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert.
• Serve with a side of fresh whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
• Pair with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.

VARIATIONS

You can customize these bars to your taste with a few easy variations:

• Use different types of apples, like Honeycrisp or Fuji, for a sweeter taste.
• Add nuts, like chopped pecans or walnuts, into the crumble topping for extra crunch.
• Replace caramel sauce with toffee sauce for a different flavor profile.

FAQs

1. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
   Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but the bars may not be as creamy.
2. Is it necessary to chill the bars?
   Yes, chilling helps them set properly and makes them easier to cut.
3. Can I prepare the crust in advance?
   Yes, you can make the crust a day ahead and keep it in the fridge until you are ready to use it.
4. What can I use instead of digestive biscuits?
   Graham crackers or shortbread cookies can work well as a substitute for digestive biscuits.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

You can prepare several components of the bars in advance:

• Make the crust a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator.
• Prepare the spiced apples ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge until you need them.
• You can even make the entire cheesecake bars a day or two ahead of when you plan to serve them. They taste even better after chilling!

These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are sure to please anyone with a sweet tooth. Enjoy these delicious bars as a delightful ending to any meal or as a special treat for yourself. Happy baking!

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