The aroma of autumn wafts through the kitchen as I slice into these Salted Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars, a sweet tribute to the season’s bounty. With their buttery shortbread crust, luscious spiced apple cheesecake filling, and crispy streusel topping, these bars are destined to become the highlight of your Thanksgiving dessert table. Not only are they delightfully easy to prepare, but they also strike that perfect balance between rich and comforting while offering a light, refreshing twist from the apples. Whether you’re hosting family or enjoying a cozy night in, these bars are sure to impress and satisfy every sweet tooth. Are you ready to elevate your dessert game this year? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Why Will You Adore These Bars?
Irresistible Flavor: The blend of spiced apples and salted caramel is a match made in heaven, creating a dessert that’s both cozy and sophisticated.
Effortless Preparation: Even if you’re new to baking, this recipe is straightforward, ensuring you’ll impress everyone with minimal stress.
Perfect for Any Occasion: While they make an outstanding Thanksgiving dessert, they’re also great for holiday parties or just a sweet treat at home.
Versatile Options: Feel free to swap ingredients or toppings! Try adding chocolate drizzles or using Fried Pineapple Rings instead of apples for a tropical twist.
Crowd-Pleaser: These bars are sure to disappear quickly, leaving your guests clamoring for the recipe!
Savor the season with these bars, and don’t forget to pair them with a refreshing Green Apple Mocktail for a delightful experience!
Apple Caramel Cheesecake Bars Ingredients
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For the Shortbread Crust:
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Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture. Substitute with vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
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Light Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and a slight molasses flavor. Can replace with granulated sugar for a less rich flavor.
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All-Purpose Flour – Forms the base and structure. Use gluten-free flour as a substitute.
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Ground Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Salt – Enhance flavor. Optional dependent on personal preference.
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For the Spiced Apple Cheesecake Filling:
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Cream Cheese – Base of the cheesecake, providing creaminess. Mascarpone can be used for a richer flavor.
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Sour Cream – Adds tanginess and moisture. Greek yogurt can serve as a substitute.
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Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the filling. Reduce for a less sweet filling; consider using honey or maple syrup.
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Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor. Use pure vanilla for best results.
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Eggs and Egg Yolks – Provide structure and creaminess. Flax eggs can be used as a vegan alternative.
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Heavy Cream – Adds richness. Omit or use coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
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Granny Smith Apples – Adds tartness and texture. Any firm apple can be substituted, such as Honeycrisp or Fuji.
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For the Brown Sugar Streusel Topping:
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Light Brown Sugar – For sweetness and crumbly texture. Can use granulated sugar if unavailable.
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Granulated Sugar and All-Purpose Flour – Provide structure to the streusel. Omit one for a less sweet topping.
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Old-Fashioned Oats – Add crunch. Omit for gluten-free options.
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Unsalted Butter – Binds the topping. Use vegan butter as an alternative.
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For the Salted Caramel Sauce:
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Salted Caramel Sauce – For drizzling over the finished bars. Store-bought or homemade sauces can be used; choose one that isn’t overly sweet.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salted Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
Step 1: Prepare Shortbread Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter and ¾ cup of light brown sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually incorporate 2 cups of all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until the mixture resembles a crumbly dough. Press it evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 8 minutes until slightly golden.
Step 2: Make Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat 16 ounces of cream cheese until smooth. Add in ½ cup of sour cream, ¾ cup of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined. Next, add 2 eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is incorporated before adding the next. Gently fold in ½ cup of heavy cream and ¼ cup of flour until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Pour this luscious filling over the cooled crust.
Step 3: Add Apples
In a separate bowl, mix 3 cups of peeled and diced Granny Smith apples with ¼ cup of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and a dash of nutmeg. Stir until the apples are well coated. Sprinkle the spiced apple mixture evenly over the cheesecake batter, ensuring every bite has that delicious apple goodness.
Step 4: Prepare Streusel Topping
In another bowl, combine ½ cup of light brown sugar, ½ cup of granulated sugar, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, and 1 cup of old-fashioned oats. Cut in ½ cup of unsalted butter until the mixture becomes crumbly. Sprinkle this streusel topping generously over the apple layer, creating an enticing crunch that will enhance your Salted Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars.
Step 5: Bake Cheesecake
Carefully place the pan in the oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes. Afterward, reduce the temperature to 300°F (150°C) and continue baking for an additional 40 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly. This gentle baking technique ensures a creamy cheesecake filling.
Step 6: Cool and Chill
Once baked, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature in the pan. Once cooled, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 5 hours or, ideally, overnight. This chilling process helps the flavors meld together and makes for easier slicing of the Salted Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars.
Step 7: Serve
After chilling, take the cheesecake out of the fridge and unfasten the parchment paper to lift it out of the pan. Drizzle generously with salted caramel sauce and sprinkle with flaky sea salt. Slice into squares, and get ready to impress your family and friends with these delightful Salted Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars.
Expert Tips for Apple Caramel Cheesecake Bars
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all dairy products, especially cream cheese and eggs, are at room temperature for a smooth filling. Cold ingredients can lead to lumps.
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Gentle Mixing: When adding eggs to the cheesecake filling, mix gently and stop as soon as combined. Overmixing can create a dense texture rather than a creamy one.
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Cooling Time: Let the bars cool completely in the pan before refrigerating. This step allows the cheesecake to set properly and prevents a messy slice.
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Clean Cuts: For neat squares, use a warm, clean knife. Wipe the knife between cuts to maintain a tidy presentation of your Apple Caramel Cheesecake Bars.
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Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with spices—adding a pinch of cloves or ginger can take your bars to another aromatic level that complements the apples beautifully.
What to Serve with Salted Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars?
Elevate your dessert table by pairing these luscious bars with delightful accompaniments that enhance their mouthwatering flavors.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream beautifully balances the rich flavors of the cheesecake bars, creating a heavenly combination.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds a soft and fluffy element that complements the creamy cheesecake, providing a delightful textural contrast.
- Cinnamon Sugar Pecans: Crunchy pecans coated in cinnamon and sugar add a warm, nutty flavor that enriches the overall experience while contrasting the creamy texture.
- Apple Cider: A glass of spiced apple cider enhances the apple flavor present in the bars, providing a festive touch perfect for autumn gatherings.
- Caramel Sauce Drizzle: For those who can’t get enough sweetness, an extra drizzle of salted caramel sauce will heighten the decadence and add another layer of indulgence.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful medley of fresh fruits cuts through the richness of the bars, offering a refreshing palate cleanser and a burst of juicy flavor.
- Coffee or Espresso: The bitterness of a freshly brewed cup of coffee or espresso complements the sweet notes of the cheesecake, making each bite even more enjoyable.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace the cozy vibes of fall with a pumpkin spice latte; its warm spices harmonize beautifully with the flavors of spiced apple cheesecake bars.
- Cheese Board: A small cheese board with sharp cheeses balances the sweetness, allowing for a sophisticated nibble alongside your delicious dessert.
Storage Tips for Apple Caramel Cheesecake Bars
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Fridge: Store these decadent bars in an airtight container for up to 1 week. This keeps them fresh while allowing the flavors to develop even further.
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Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual squares in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and place in an airtight container. They will stay delicious for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
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Reheating: If you prefer your bars slightly warm, place them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving. This little step reignites the comforting creaminess of the Apple Caramel Cheesecake Bars.
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Cutting: When ready to enjoy, use a warm, clean knife for clean cuts. This will ensure that each slice showcases the beautiful layers and textures of the bars!
Make Ahead Options
These Salted Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the holidays! You can prepare the shortbread crust and apple cheesecake filling up to 24 hours in advance; simply store each component separately in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. For best results, assemble the bars and add the streusel topping just before baking, ensuring a deliciously crisp texture. Additionally, you can slice the baked bars and refrigerate them for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge before serving. This makes these cheesecake bars a time-saving solution for your Thanksgiving dessert planning!
Apple Caramel Cheesecake Bars Variations
Embrace your creativity with these delightful twists on the classic Apple Caramel Cheesecake Bars!
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Vegan Option: Swap cream cheese and sour cream with cashew cream and coconut yogurt for a creamy, dairy-free alternative. You’ll still enjoy that luscious texture sans dairy!
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Chocolate Drizzle: Top your bars with a rich chocolate drizzle instead of caramel for a decadent twist. Melting some chocolate and allowing it to set will bring an entirely new level of indulgence.
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Nutty Streusel: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the streusel topping for added crunch and flavor. The nuts will complement the sweetness of the apples beautifully.
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Mixed Fruit Variation: Use a combination of apples and sliced pears for a fruity fusion. The sweetness of pears adds a delightful complexity that’s just divine.
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Spiced Rum Infusion: Add a tablespoon of spiced rum to the cheesecake filling for a warming kick. This twist can make your desserts feel festive and cozy.
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Salted Caramel Sauce: If you prefer a lighter touch, use a homemade caramel sauce that’s less sweet than store-bought options. This homemade version will elevate your bars to gourmet status.
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Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Before serving, sprinkle a mixture of cinnamon and sugar over the bars for an extra layer of spice and sweetness. It’s a lovely finishing touch that enhances the overall flavor profile.
For an extra special touch, serve these bars along with a cup of Pineapple Iced Tea or pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience!
Apple Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, opt for Granny Smith apples as they provide the perfect balance of tartness and crunch. Other firm varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji can also be great substitutes if you prefer a sweeter profile. Just look for apples that are firm and free of dark spots to ensure freshness.
What’s the best way to store leftover cheesecake bars?
Very! Store any leftover Apple Caramel Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will remain fresh for up to 1 week. If you wish to keep them longer, you can freeze them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving!
Can I freeze these cheesecake bars?
Yes! For freezing, wrap each individual square of the Apple Caramel Cheesecake Bars in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in an airtight container. This way, they’ll maintain their delicious taste and texture for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, and they’ll be as good as new!
What should I do if my cheesecake bars are too dense?
If your cheesecake bars turn out dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter after adding the eggs. To avoid this, I recommend mixing gently and only until the ingredients are combined. If you’re worried about lumps, be sure to let all your dairy ingredients come to room temperature before mixing, as this helps create a smooth texture.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re cooking for someone with dairy allergies, you can substitute traditional ingredients with dairy-free alternatives. For instance, use vegan butter instead of unsalted butter, and consider almond or cashew cream as an alternative to heavy cream. Also, remember that oats can be omitted for a gluten-free option. Always check labels for allergens when using store-bought products!
How can I add more flavor to the streusel topping?
Very easy! To enhance the flavor of your streusel topping, try adding a combination of spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a dash of vanilla extract into the mix. You can also incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and a delightful nutty flavor that complements the apples beautifully.
Apple Caramel Cheesecake Bars: Your New Favorite Fall Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and light brown sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, and salt until the mixture resembles a crumbly dough. Press it evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 8 minutes until slightly golden.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add in sour cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined. Add eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is incorporated before adding the next. Gently fold in heavy cream and flour until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Pour over the cooled crust.
- In a separate bowl, mix the peeled and diced Granny Smith apples with brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and a dash of nutmeg. Stir until the apples are well coated. Sprinkle the spiced apple mixture evenly over the cheesecake batter.
- In another bowl, combine light brown sugar, granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, and old-fashioned oats. Cut in unsalted butter until the mixture becomes crumbly. Sprinkle this streusel topping generously over the apple layer.
- Carefully place the pan in the oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes. Reduce the temperature to 300°F (150°C) and continue baking for an additional 40 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature in the pan. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 5 hours or, ideally, overnight.
- After chilling, take the cheesecake out of the fridge, lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper. Drizzle generously with salted caramel sauce and sprinkle with flaky sea salt. Slice into squares.
