Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars: 5 Irresistible Layers

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I don’t know about you, but when the leaves start turning and there’s a nip in the air, I’m all in for anything apple + caramel. That’s why Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are my new autumn obsession—they’ve got the creamy tang of cheesecake, the sweet bite of cinnamon apples, and that oh-so-dreamy drizzle of caramel all in one square. If you’ve been craving a dessert that feels like a hug from the inside, this is it.

Life is busy. Whether you’re juggling work, kids, or just trying to find five minutes to breathe, this is a recipe that rewards patience without demanding perfection. You’ll wind up with something spectacular—and people will think you’re a baking genius. Let’s dive in.

Why You’ll Love These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

One pan, multiple layers, zero fuss. You build them layer by layer—crust, cheesecake, apples, streusel—and the oven does the heavy lifting.
Flavor harmony. The sweet-tart apples play off the rich cheesecake and buttery caramel.
Make-ahead magic. Chill them overnight and slice when you need a showstopper dessert.
Kid-pleaser but elegant. It’s cozy enough for the family, pretty enough for guests.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Crust:

2 cups graham cracker crumbs
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
¼ cup granulated sugar
¼ tsp cinnamon

For the Cheesecake Layer:

16 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Apple Layer:

3 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced
2 tbsp lemon juice
¼ cup brown sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
¼ tsp nutmeg

For the Streusel Topping:

½ cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup brown sugar
¼ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
¼ cup chopped pecans (optional)

For the Caramel Sauce:

1 cup granulated sugar
¼ cup water
½ cup heavy cream
2 tbsp unsalted butter
¼ tsp salt

How To Make Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Preheat & prep the pan.
Preheat your oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, letting edges overhang so you can lift the bars out later.
Make the crust.
In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon. Press into the bottom of your prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and let cool while you move on.
Prepare the cheesecake layer.
Beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until silky smooth (no lumps). Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla extract. Pour this over the cooled crust and gently spread into an even layer.
Assemble the apple layer.
Toss diced apples with lemon juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Distribute the mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer.
Create the streusel topping.
In a bowl, mix flour and brown sugar. Cut in the cold cubed butter (using a pastry cutter, two forks, or your fingers) until you have pea‑sized crumbs. Stir in pecans if you’re using them. Sprinkle this streusel over the apples.
Bake.
Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the streusel is golden and the cheesecake is set (it should jiggle just slightly in the very center). Remove from oven and allow to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight—you’ll get cleaner slices that way).
Make the caramel sauce.
In a saucepan, combine sugar and water over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Then increase to medium-high heat and don’t stir—just let it cook until it turns a deep amber (8–10 minutes). Remove from heat, and carefully whisk in the cream (watch—it will bubble). Stir in butter and salt until silky smooth. Let it cool slightly.
Serve.
Lift the chilled bars out using the parchment overhang and slice into squares. Drizzle warm caramel sauce over each piece just before serving.

Tips + Tricks

If your caramel sauce seems too thick, whisk in a splash more cream (just a tablespoon at a time).
Want cleaner slices? Run a sharp knife under hot water, dry it, then slice. Repeat between cuts.
Use tart apples (like Granny Smith) to balance sweetness and keep the texture firm.
You can prep everything (except bake) the night before. Then bake fresh when your guests arrive.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge—these bars hold well for 3–4 days.

I once made this on a busy Sunday when my to-do list looked like a novel. I baked these bars while I folded laundry, and by the time dinner was done, the kitchen smelled like heaven. My kids called it “the best dessert ever,” and I smiled—because yes, these bars saved the day.

Stacked Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars with dripping caramel and streusel topping — Indulge in these Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars, stacked high with layers of creamy cheesecake, tart apples, and luscious caramel drizzle.

FAQs About Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Can I use another type of apple?

Yes—just pick a firm, slightly tart apple (Pink Lady, Honeycrisp, or Jonagold). Avoid super soft ones that turn to mush.

Can I skip the pecans in the streusel?

Absolutely! They add texture and nuttiness, but the bars are delicious without them.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep them in the fridge in an airtight container. They stay good for 3–4 days.

Can I make the caramel in advance?

Yes, up to a day ahead. Rewarm gently before serving (don’t boil again).

Winding Down with Sweetness

These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are the kind of dessert that feels like a cozy sweater: warm, comforting, and totally satisfying. Whether you’re feeding the family or treating weekend guests, this recipe delivers layers of flavor that feel fancy without the fuss. Go ahead—pour that caramel, take that first bite, and let fall in every bite.

More Cozy Fall Favorites to Try

If you loved these Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars, you’re going to adore these comforting seasonal recipes that pair perfectly with your autumn baking mood. Here are some reader favorites to add to your fall kitchen lineup:

For another apple-forward treat that practically makes your house smell like a Hallmark movie, try the cozy and sweet Crockpot Apple Dump Cake. It’s as easy as it is irresistible.
Want to keep the fall flavors rolling with a savory twist? Don’t miss this hearty Fall Apple Cider Stew Mash—a soul-warming dinner made for chilly evenings.
When you need a quick dessert with bold fall flair, these Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting are fluffy, spiced perfection.
And for a main dish that’s both festive and filling, the Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls make for an easy dinner or holiday appetizer everyone will rave about.

Go ahead—bookmark a few, pin a couple, or better yet, make a whole fall-themed meal!