Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

These caramel apple cheesecake bars combine the creamy richness of cheesecake with the crisp, spiced sweetness of apples and a buttery crumb topping. Perfect for autumn gatherings or when you want a dessert that feels both indulgent and comforting, this recipe balances textures and flavors beautifully.

I've made this recipe on chilly weekends when the aroma of baking apples and cinnamon fills the kitchen. It quickly became a favorite for friends and family who keep asking for seconds.

Ingredients

• Digestive biscuits for the crust: choose ones without any added flavors to keep the base neutral and crumbly
• Unsalted butter: helps bind the crust and adds richness& use high-quality butter for the best flavor
• Full-fat cream cheese at room temperature: ensures a smooth and creamy cheesecake filling
• Granulated sugar: sweetens the cheesecake and the apple layer& fresh sugar gives a clean sweetness
• Salt and vanilla extract: salt enhances the flavors and vanilla adds warmth
• Large eggs at room temperature: help set the cheesecake while keeping it tender
• Granny smith apples peeled and chopped: tart apples work best to balance the sweetness of caramel
• Lemon zest for brightness and to complement the spice
• Ground cinnamon and nutmeg: key spices delivering that classic autumn flavor
• Plain flour for the crumble topping: gives structure and texture
• Demerara sugar and granulated sugar for the crumble: add crunch and a hint of caramel-like sweetness
• Chilled unsalted butter cubed for the crumble: rubbing it into the dry ingredients creates a perfect sandy texture
• Caramel sauce for drizzling over the finished bars to heighten the indulgence

Instructions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Tin:

Soothe your taste buds by preheating your oven to 160°C fan and preparing your baking tin with a light grease and lined baking paper allowing extra overhang for easy lifting later on.

Create the Crust:

Create the crust by blitzing digestive biscuits into fine crumbs using a food processor or smashing them in a bag with a rolling pin. Combine these crumbs with melted butter until the texture mimics damp sand. Press this mixture into your lined pan evenly, then chill while you prepare the rest.

Make the Cheesecake Filling:

Whip the cheesecake filling in your mixer by beating cream cheese until fluffy and smooth. Add sugar, salt, and vanilla and mix to combine fully. Then, incorporate the eggs one by one, making sure everything is well blended. Remember to scrape down the sides of your bowl to keep the texture consistent.

Pour Batter and Smooth:

Remove your chilled crust from the fridge and pour the cheesecake batter over it. Gently tap the baking pan on the counter to release any trapped air bubbles for a smooth finish.

Prepare Apple Layer:

Prepare the apple layer by mixing chopped granny smith apples with sugar, lemon zest, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Allow this mixture to rest for five minutes so the flavors meld and the apples soften slightly.

Make Crumble Topping:

For the crumble topping, rub chilled butter into flour, cinnamon, and both sugars until the mixture looks sandy and coarse, creating that perfect crumbly texture.

Assemble Layers:

Spread the spiced apples evenly over your cheesecake layer, then sprinkle the crumble topping generously over the apples to cover completely.

Bake:

Bake in your preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes. You are looking for a golden crumble and a set filling—avoid overbaking to keep the cheesecake creamy.

Cool and Chill:

Once baked, cool completely on the counter, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight for the best texture and flavor development.

Serve:

Lift the bars from the pan using the overhanging baking paper, drizzle with caramel sauce, slice, and serve these irresistible bars.

One time I made these bars for a family reunion, and the kids claimed they were the best dessert ever despite the usual party favorites.

Storage Tips

Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the fridge. This keeps the crumble topping crispier if you place a paper towel underneath to absorb moisture. If you want to freeze them, wrap each bar individually in cling film and then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap digestive biscuits for graham crackers if preferred, as they give a similar buttery base. If granny smith apples are not available, try tart fuji or pink lady apples& just make sure they hold their shape when baked. For caramel sauce, homemade or store-bought both work well, but thicker caramel will stay in place better when drizzled.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these bars slightly chilled or at room temperature with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. A sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts on top adds extra crunch and nuttiness. Pairing with a cup of spiced apple cider or black coffee complements the flavors nicely.

This recipe captures the warmth and comfort of autumn perfectly, making it a beloved treat for family and friends. Enjoy every indulgent bite!

FAQs about Recipes

→ What type of apples work best for this dessert?

Granny Smith apples are ideal due to their tartness and firm texture, which hold up well during baking and complement the sweet caramel and cheesecake layers.

→ Can I prepare the bars in advance?

Yes, they taste even better after chilling overnight, allowing flavors to meld and making slicing easier.

→ How do I prevent the crust from becoming soggy?

Chilling the crust before adding the cream cheese layer helps set it firmly and keeps it from absorbing moisture during baking.

→ What is the purpose of the crumble topping?

The crumble adds a buttery, crunchy texture contrasting with the smooth cheesecake and tender apple layers, enhancing the overall mouthfeel.

→ Can I substitute caramel sauce for another topping?

While caramel adds rich sweetness, alternatives like a fruit glaze or honey can be used depending on your preference.