Name: Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 3 h 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 and 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 16 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup thick caramel sauce; 1/3 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Imagine the sweet aroma of warm apples and buttery caramel dancing through your kitchen. Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are a decadent dessert that takes everything you love about classic cheesecake and fall desserts and combines them into perfect squares of joy. With a spiced graham cracker crust, a silky cream cheese center, and a thick layer of caramel-coated apples and chopped nuts on top, each bite is a cozy indulgence.

Perfect for autumn gatherings, holiday parties, or just a treat-yourself moment, these bars are a crowd-pleaser. They look impressive but come together with simple ingredients and no need for a water bath. Whether you’re an apple dessert lover or a cheesecake fanatic, this recipe is your new favorite hybrid.

What Kind of Apples Should I Use?

The best apples for this recipe are firm and tart—think Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They hold their shape well during baking and balance the sweetness of the caramel and cheesecake layers. Avoid apples that get too mushy, like Red Delicious, so you get those juicy bites of apple with every forkful.

Ingredients for the Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Graham Cracker Crust: This buttery, cinnamon-kissed base gives the bars a toasty flavor and crunch that perfectly supports the creamy filling.

Cream Cheese: The star of the show. Use full-fat, room-temperature cream cheese for a smooth, luscious texture.

Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake layer without overpowering the tanginess of the cream cheese.

Eggs: Bind everything together while keeping the texture rich and custardy.

Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and warmth to the cheesecake filling.

Apples: Freshly peeled and chopped apples add juicy bites and a natural tartness that contrasts beautifully with the sweet caramel.

Brown Sugar & Cinnamon: These bring warmth and that classic fall flavor to the apple topping.

Caramel Sauce: Use a thick, high-quality caramel sauce (or homemade!) for a glossy, gooey finish.

Chopped Walnuts or Pecans (optional): Add crunch and a nutty edge that enhances the overall texture.

How To Make the Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Prep the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper. In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and a pinch of cinnamon. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then remove and let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer

In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract. Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust and smooth the top.

Step 3: Prepare the Apple Topping

Peel, core, and dice your apples into small chunks. In a skillet over medium heat, melt a tablespoon of butter and add the chopped apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cook until the apples are slightly softened but not mushy, about 5-7 minutes. Let them cool for a couple of minutes, then spoon evenly over the cheesecake layer.

Step 4: Bake the Bars

Bake the assembled bars in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes or until the center is just set and no longer jiggly. Remove and let cool completely at room temperature, then transfer to the fridge to chill for at least 3 hours (overnight is even better).

Step 5: Add the Caramel and Nuts

Once chilled and firm, drizzle the bars generously with caramel sauce. Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top if using. Slice into squares using a sharp, clean knife for neat edges.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve these bars slightly chilled or at room temperature for the ultimate flavor experience. Each bite has the perfect contrast of creamy, crunchy, tart, and sweet.

How to Serve and Store Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

These bars are best served chilled or at cool room temperature. The layers hold their structure beautifully and the flavors meld even more after a few hours in the fridge. For a fancier presentation, add a fresh apple slice or extra drizzle of warm caramel right before serving.

To store, place the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them (without the caramel topping) for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight and top with caramel and nuts just before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of pan should I use?

A 9×13-inch baking dish works best for even layers. Glass or metal pans are both fine—just be sure to line it with parchment for easy removal.

Can I use a different crust?

Yes! A shortbread crust or crushed gingersnap cookies would be delicious alternatives to graham crackers.

Do I have to cook the apples first?

For the best texture and flavor, yes. Cooking the apples softens them just enough and brings out their natural sweetness.

How do I prevent cracks in the cheesecake layer?

Don’t overbake! Remove the bars from the oven when the center is just set. Chilling helps the cheesecake firm up perfectly without cracking.

Can I use store-bought caramel?

Absolutely. Just choose a thick, good-quality caramel sauce. If it’s too runny, it can slide off the bars instead of creating that dreamy finish.

Are the nuts optional?

Yes. They add a great crunch, but the bars are still incredible without them if you prefer a nut-free dessert.

Want More Cheesecake Dessert Ideas?

If you love these Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars, you’re in for a treat with these other creamy, dreamy favorites:

Lemon Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake Cups for a fruity burst in every bite.
Caramel Cheesecake Cookies that combine the best of cookies and cheesecake.
Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow for a no-bake, crunchy snackable twist.
Strawberry Cheesecake Poke Cake if you love your cheesecake layered into moist cake.
Easy Cream Puff Cake for another chilled and creamy crowd-pleaser.

These recipes are all bursting with creamy textures, fruity layers, and a little something special to elevate your dessert table.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time: Life with Jam on Pinterest

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use Honeycrisp or go with Granny Smith? Add extra caramel drizzle? Or maybe skip the nuts?

I love seeing your creative takes and tweaks. Questions are welcome too—let’s bake smarter together!