Print

Perfect Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars with Buttery Shortbread Crust

caramel apple cheesecake bars - featured image
Print Recipe

These caramel apple cheesecake bars combine a buttery shortbread crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and a warm caramel apple topping for a quick, comforting fall dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
  • 2/3 cup (130g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 3 medium apples, peeled and diced (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith)
  • 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar, packed
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, cream softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Gradually mix in flour and salt until dough forms. Press evenly into bottom of greased 9×13-inch pan. Bake 15-18 minutes until edges are golden. Let cool slightly.
  2. In a clean bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and beat until combined. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla and flour. Pour over warm crust and spread evenly.
  3. Heat butter in medium skillet over medium heat. Add diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook, stirring occasionally, 5-7 minutes until apples are tender but hold shape. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
  4. Spoon cooked apples evenly over cheesecake layer. Drizzle caramel sauce on top and swirl gently with knife or skewer to create marbled effect.
  5. Bake entire pan for 35-40 minutes at 350°F (175°C) until cheesecake filling is set but slightly jiggly in center. Avoid overbaking.
  6. Let bars cool to room temperature, then refrigerate at least 3 hours or overnight for best slicing. Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water for clean edges.

Notes

Soften cream cheese well before mixing to avoid lumps. Press crust evenly using bottom of measuring cup for a compact crust. Cook apples until tender but not mushy. Swirl caramel lightly to avoid sogginess. Avoid overbaking cheesecake to prevent cracks. Chill bars thoroughly before slicing for clean cuts. Use a warm knife for slicing.

Nutrition

Keywords: caramel apple cheesecake bars, shortbread crust, fall dessert, easy cheesecake bars, apple dessert, caramel dessert, quick dessert

Find it online: https://lyrafeast.com/perfect-caramel-apple-cheesecake-bars-easy-homemade-recipe-with-buttery-shortbread-crust/