Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars combine everything you love about fall desserts into one irresistible bite. A buttery graham cracker crust supports a creamy vanilla cheesecake layer, topped with tender cinnamon apples and finished with a glossy caramel drizzle and crunchy pecans. Every slice delivers sweet, tangy, spiced, and buttery notes in perfect balance.

These bars are easier to make than a traditional cheesecake and ideal for gatherings. Baked in a simple 9×13-inch pan and sliced into neat squares, they’re perfect for holidays, potlucks, or whenever you crave a cozy dessert that looks impressive but feels completely approachable.

Why You’ll Love This Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Creamy cheesecake with warm spiced apple topping
Easier than baking a full cheesecake
Perfectly portioned for parties
Make-ahead friendly
Beautiful presentation with minimal effort

What Apples Work Best for Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars?

Firm, slightly tart apples such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best. They hold their shape during baking and balance the sweetness of the caramel and cheesecake. Softer apples may become mushy and release too much moisture, which can affect the texture of the bars.

Ingredients for the Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Each ingredient plays an important role in creating the perfect texture and flavor balance.

Graham cracker crumbs – Forms the sturdy, buttery base.

Unsalted butter – Binds the crust and adds richness.

Granulated sugar – Sweetens both crust and cheesecake layer.

Cream cheese – The foundation of the smooth cheesecake filling.

Eggs – Provide structure and stability to the cheesecake.

Vanilla extract – Enhances the creamy flavor.

Apples – Create the soft, spiced topping layer.

Brown sugar – Adds warmth and caramel notes to the apples.

Ground cinnamon – Brings cozy spice to the topping.

Cornstarch – Thickens the apple mixture so it sets properly.

Caramel sauce – Adds the signature sweet finish.

Chopped pecans – Provide crunch and contrast.

How To Make the Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

Combine 2 cups graham cracker crumbs, 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter, and 2 tablespoons granulated sugar. Press firmly into the pan to form an even layer. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer

In a large bowl, beat 24 ounces cream cheese with 1/2 cup granulated sugar until smooth. Add 2 large eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.

Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the cooled crust.

Step 3: Prepare the Apple Topping

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 3 cups peeled and diced apples, 1/3 cup brown sugar, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1 tablespoon cornstarch. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the apples soften and the mixture thickens.

Spoon the apple mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer.

Step 4: Bake

Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly. Remove from the oven and cool completely at room temperature.

Step 5: Chill and Finish

Refrigerate for at least 3 hours to fully set. Before serving, drizzle 1/2 cup caramel sauce over the top and sprinkle with 1/2 cup chopped pecans. Slice into 12 equal bars.

Serving and Storing Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

This recipe yields 12 bars and comfortably serves 12 people.

Serve chilled for clean slices and the best texture. For extra indulgence, warm individual bars for 10 seconds in the microwave before serving.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the bars (without caramel topping) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and drizzle caramel before serving.

What to Serve With Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars?

Vanilla Ice Cream

A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts beautifully over the caramel topping.

Salted Caramel Apple Pie

If you love apple desserts, try this rich and comforting variation: https://mealsweshare.com/salted-caramel-apple-pie/

Hot Spiced Cider

The warm spices complement the cinnamon apple topping.

Coffee or Espresso

The slight bitterness balances the sweetness of the bars.

Blueberry Cheesecake Tart

For another cheesecake-inspired treat, visit: https://mealsweshare.com/blueberry-cheesecake-tart/

Whipped Cream

Light and airy, it enhances the creamy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes. They’re even better after chilling overnight. The flavors settle and the texture becomes firmer, making them easier to slice.

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Absolutely. Store-bought caramel works perfectly, though homemade caramel can add a deeper flavor.

How do I prevent cracks in the cheesecake layer?

Avoid overmixing the batter and do not overbake. The center should still have a slight jiggle when removed from the oven.

Can I skip the pecans?

Yes. The bars will still be delicious without them, or you can substitute walnuts for a similar crunch.

Can I try other cheesecake variations?

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add extra caramel? Did you toast the pecans first? I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too — let’s help each other bake smarter.

For more daily recipe inspiration, follow us on Pinterest at Meals We Share: https://www.pinterest.com/mealsweshare/

Conclusion

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars bring together creamy cheesecake, spiced apples, buttery crust, and rich caramel in every bite. They’re simple enough for a weekend bake yet elegant enough for holiday tables. Once you slice into these layers and see that caramel drizzle, you’ll know this dessert is destined to become a seasonal favorite.

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Author: Sally Roberts
Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
Yield: 12 bars
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars combine a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth and creamy vanilla cheesecake filling, tender cinnamon-spiced apples, and a rich caramel drizzle into one irresistible dessert. Perfect for holiday gatherings, fall baking, or whenever you need an easy dessert bar recipe, these cheesecake bars deliver bakery-style flavor with simple ingredients. If you love apple desserts, creamy cheesecake, and crowd-pleasing sweet treats, this easy recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite.

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

2. In a bowl, mix 2 cups graham cracker crumbs, 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter, and 2 tablespoons granulated sugar. Press firmly into the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes and let cool slightly.

3. Beat 24 ounces cream cheese with 1/2 cup granulated sugar until smooth. Add 2 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.

4. Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the cooled crust.

5. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 3 cups diced apples, 1/3 cup brown sugar, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1 tablespoon cornstarch. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until apples soften and mixture thickens.

6. Spoon the apple mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer.

7. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the center is set but slightly jiggly.

8. Cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours.

9. Drizzle 1/2 cup caramel sauce over the chilled bars and sprinkle with 1/2 cup chopped pecans.

10. Slice into 12 equal bars and serve.

Notes

Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for best texture.

Chill thoroughly before slicing for clean, sharp edges.

Add caramel just before serving for the freshest presentation.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 420
Sugar: 28g
Sodium: 320mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: caramel apple cheesecake bars, easy dessert bars, fall dessert recipe, apple cheesecake, holiday dessert ideas