There’s something about the scent of cinnamon and caramel drifting through the house that makes fall feel real. I made the best Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars one chilly November day, and they never made it to dessert. My family grabbed seconds before dinner was done. If you’re searching for the best Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars, this is it—layered, tested, and always loved.
Table of Contents
Why These Are the Best Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
This isn’t your average apple dessert. These bars are stacked with flavor and texture in every layer:
- A buttery shortbread crust that bakes up golden and crisp
- An extra-thick, creamy cheesecake layer
- Warm, spiced Granny Smith apples for that classic fall flavor
- A sweet oat streusel topping that melts beautifully while baking
- A thick caramel drizzle for a final touch of indulgence
I also increased the cheesecake layer by 1.5x compared to the original version, so every bite is extra creamy without being too sweet.
Ingredients for the Best Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
Crust
This shortbread crust is simple but so important. It’s made with all-purpose flour, brown sugar, and softened butter. Mix until crumbly, press into the pan, and bake until golden. It gives the bars structure while staying soft underneath.
Cheesecake Layer
The cheesecake filling is thick, smooth, and lightly sweet. You’ll need cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Add eggs one at a time for the silkiest texture. This layer bakes into a rich, creamy base that balances the apples and caramel.
Apple Layer
Granny Smith apples work best for this recipe. Their tartness cuts through the sweetness of the cheesecake and caramel. Mix the chopped apples with sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg to bring out that cozy fall flavor. Finely chop the apples so they bake evenly and melt into the cheesecake layer.
Streusel Topping
This part looks heavy going on, but don’t worry—it melts into the apples and creates a soft, crumbly top. Combine flour, brown sugar, oats, and butter until crumbly. Sprinkle generously over the apples for a golden, sweet finish.
Caramel Drizzle
Use a thick caramel sauce and drizzle it after the bars have cooled. About ½ cup is perfect. It ties all the flavors together and adds that extra-special touch.
How to Make the Best Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease or line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Crust
Mix 2 cups flour and ½ cup brown sugar. Cut in 1 cup softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press into the pan and bake for 15 minutes until lightly browned.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
Beat cream cheese with ¾ cup sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla. Pour the filling over the warm crust.
Step 4: Add the Apples
In a separate bowl, toss 3 cups of chopped Granny Smith apples with 2 tablespoons sugar, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon nutmeg. Spoon evenly over the cheesecake filling.
Step 5: Make the Streusel
Combine flour, oats, brown sugar, and butter until crumbly. Use your hands for best texture. Sprinkle the mixture over the apple layer.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. The edges will look puffed and golden.
Step 7: Cool and Chill
Let the best Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if you can. Chilling helps everything set and makes cutting easier.
Step 8: Drizzle and Serve
Drizzle the chilled bars with caramel topping just before serving. You can enjoy them cold or warm them slightly for a softer bite.
Storage and Freezing Tips
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days. They stay firm and flavorful.
To freeze, wrap individual bars and store them for up to 4 months. Just skip the caramel drizzle until you’re ready to eat.
Serve straight from the fridge for clean slices, or warm slightly in the microwave for 10–15 seconds for a cozier texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of apple?
Yes, but make sure they’re firm enough to hold their shape while baking. Honeycrisp, Braeburn, or Pink Lady are all great options. Avoid softer apples like Red Delicious.
How do I know when the cheesecake layer is baked through?
The center should still have a slight wobble when you gently shake the pan. The edges will look puffed, and the top will be lightly golden.
Can I make these bars ahead of time for a party?
Absolutely. These bars are even better the next day. Make them the night before, refrigerate overnight, and drizzle the caramel before serving.
Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe Card
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The Best Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars
Description
A rich fall dessert with buttery shortbread crust, thick creamy cheesecake, spiced apples, crumbly streusel, and a gooey caramel drizzle—perfect for Thanksgiving or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
**Crust**
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
1 cup butter, softened
**Cheesecake Filling**
16 oz cream cheese (2 blocks), softened
3/4 cup sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
**Apple Layer**
3 Granny Smith apples, peeled and finely chopped (about 3 cups)
2 tablespoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
**Streusel Topping**
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
3/4 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup butter, softened
**Caramel Drizzle**
1/2 cup thick caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. Combine flour and brown sugar for the crust. Cut in butter until the mixture is crumbly. Press into prepared pan and bake for 15 minutes.
3. While crust bakes, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla. Mix until fully combined.
4. Pour cheesecake filling over warm crust and spread evenly.
5. In a bowl, toss chopped apples with sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Spoon evenly over cheesecake layer.
6. In another bowl, mix flour, oats, brown sugar, and butter until crumbly. Sprinkle evenly over the apple layer.
7. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until the center is just set and the top is golden.
8. Cool to room temperature, then chill in refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
9. Drizzle caramel over bars just before serving. Cut into squares and enjoy cold or gently warmed.
Notes
These bars are make-ahead friendly—best chilled overnight for clean slices.
Use a thick caramel sauce for best results, and drizzle only before serving.
Bars can be stored in the fridge up to 5 days, or frozen up to 4 months without caramel.
Granny Smith apples hold their shape and give the best tart flavor balance.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Thanksgiving Recipes
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
More Apple Desserts You’ll Love
Looking for more fall flavors? Try these favorites:
Salted Caramel Apple Bars for a sweet and salty twist
Easy Apple Dumplings recipe with crescent rolls
Refreshing Apple Iced Tea to pair with your dessert
Amish Apple Fritter Bread with a cinnamon-sugar crust
Final Thoughts
These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are always a hit. They combine creamy, crunchy, tart, and sweet in one delicious square. Perfect for Thanksgiving, potlucks, or a cozy fall weekend. If you haven’t tried the best Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars yet, now’s the time.
Let me know how yours turn out—tag me on Pinterest or stop by Facebook. I’d love to hear your take on it.