When fall comes around and apples are at their best, nothing brings out the cozy vibes like a batch of homemade caramel apple cheesecake bars. I remember making these for a school bake sale—the smell of cinnamon apples and caramel filling the house, the cheesecake layer so creamy and rich, and the kids sneaking bites before the bars had even cooled. These bars are a true family favorite: buttery crust, luscious cheesecake, tender cinnamon apples, and a generous drizzle of gooey caramel. Whether you bake them for Thanksgiving or just because you love apples, they’re pure comfort in every bite.
Love cheesecake? Try my easy No Bake Cheesecake Bars Recipe for a creamy twist any time of year!
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
The Ultimate Fall Treat – Why You’ll Love These Bars
These caramel apple cheesecake bars are everything you want in a fall dessert—sweet-tart apples, creamy cheesecake, a crisp crust, and a hint of cinnamon in every layer. The best part? You can pick your crust: classic graham cracker or add an oat streusel for a bakery-style finish. Make them for holiday parties, family dinners, or just a treat on a chilly night. They’re always a hit!
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Chill Time | Total Time | Yield | Pan Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25 min | 40 min | 2 hours | 3 hrs 5 min | 16 bars | 9×13 inch |
If you love fall flavors, don’t miss my Date Bark Recipe for a fun, naturally sweet snack or try these No Bake Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies for another easy treat.
Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
Equipment
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Spatula
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Skillet
Ingredients
For the Graham Cracker Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- Pinch of salt
For the Cheesecake Layer
- 16 oz Philadelphia cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Caramel Apple Topping
- 2 large apples, peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce, plus extra for drizzling
Optional Streusel Topping
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
Make the Graham Cracker Crust
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, brown sugar, and salt until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
- Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then let cool.
Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add eggs, one at a time, mixing on low after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
Cook the Caramel Apple Topping
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add diced apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cook until apples are just tender (about 5–6 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in 1/4 cup caramel sauce. Let the mixture cool slightly, then gently spoon over the cheesecake layer.
Optional Streusel Topping
- Mix oats, brown sugar, flour, cold butter, and cinnamon with your fingers or a pastry cutter until crumbly. Sprinkle evenly over the apples for a crisp topping. (Or skip for classic bars.)
Bake, Chill & Slice
- Bake 30–35 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set but slightly jiggly in the center. Cool to room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (overnight is best for clean slices).
- Use the parchment to lift the bars out. Drizzle with extra caramel, slice into 16 squares, and serve chilled!
Notes
Nutrition
(Nutrition is estimated and will vary based on actual ingredients used)
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Graham Cracker Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- Pinch of salt
For the Cheesecake Layer
- 16 oz (2 blocks) Philadelphia cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Caramel Apple Topping
- 2 large apples, peeled and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work great!)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce, plus extra for drizzling
Optional Streusel Topping
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Substitutions & Ingredient Notes:
- Try Lemon Oatmeal No Bake Cookies for a fun oat-based dessert, or swap in gluten-free graham crackers for an allergy-friendly version.
- Don’t have caramel sauce? Homemade or store-bought both work—find more tips in my Date Bark Recipe where I share easy caramel ideas.
How to Make Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars (Step by Step)
Make the Graham Cracker Crust
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then let cool while you prepare the cheesecake layer.
Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy (no lumps!).
- Add eggs, one at a time, mixing on low after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture evenly over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
Cook the Caramel Apple Topping
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add diced apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cook until apples are just tender (about 5–6 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in 1/4 cup caramel sauce. Let the mixture cool slightly before spooning it gently over the cheesecake layer.
Add the Streusel (Optional)
- For a bakery-style finish, mix oats, brown sugar, flour, cold butter, and cinnamon with your fingers or a pastry cutter until crumbly. Sprinkle evenly over the apples for a crisp topping.
- If you prefer classic bars, skip the streusel and go with just the caramel apple topping!
Bake, Chill & Slice
- Bake the assembled bars for 30–35 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Let the bars cool to room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (overnight is best for clean slices).
- Use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out. Drizzle with extra caramel, slice into squares, and serve!
For more baking tips and step-by-step dessert inspiration, check out my No Bake Oreo Dessert or discover creative serving ideas in Mason Jar Dessert Recipes.
Pro Tips for the Best Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
- Use tart apples: Granny Smith or Honeycrisp give the perfect sweet-tart bite and won’t turn mushy while baking.
- Soften your cream cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened for the smoothest, lump-free filling.
- Don’t overbake: The cheesecake should still jiggle slightly in the center when you pull it from the oven—it will set as it chills.
- Chill before slicing: Cold bars slice neatly and hold their shape. For extra clean slices, freeze for 20 minutes before cutting.
- Homemade or store-bought caramel: Both work! For even more caramel flavor, try swirling extra sauce over the top before baking.
- Make ahead: Bars can be made a day in advance and stored covered in the fridge.
For more autumn dessert inspiration, visit my Healthy No Bake Desserts or see my favorite quick fall snacks like Date Bark Recipe.
Variations & Serving Suggestions
- No Bake Option: Want a shortcut? Skip the oven and make a no bake version by using a chilled graham cracker crust and a no bake cheesecake layer. For more no bake inspiration, check out my No Bake Cottage Cheese Brownie Batter Protein Bites.
- Nutty Streusel: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the streusel topping for extra crunch and fall flavor.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free graham crackers or a nut-based crust for an allergy-friendly treat.
- Caramel Drizzle: Warm extra caramel sauce and drizzle just before serving for a bakery-style finish.
- Parfait Style: Layer cheesecake, apples, and caramel in small jars for individual parfaits—see more ideas in Mason Jar Dessert Recipes.
- Make It Festive: Serve bars on a holiday platter, sprinkle with extra cinnamon, or top with whipped cream for a special touch.
How to Store & Freeze
- Refrigerator: Store the bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. They’re even better after a night of chilling!
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bars (cut or uncut) in a single layer until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months.
- Thawing: Thaw bars overnight in the refrigerator for best texture. Serve chilled for the creamiest bite.
- Serving Tip: Slice the bars while cold for clean edges, and add a drizzle of caramel sauce just before serving.
Need more make-ahead dessert ideas? Don’t miss my Healthy No Bake Desserts or these 3 Ingredient No Bake Cookies for simple treats to prep in advance.
Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe – Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Philadelphia cream cheese for these bars?
Absolutely! Philadelphia cream cheese gives the best creamy texture and classic cheesecake flavor. For more creamy bar ideas, check out my No Bake Cottage Cheese Brownie Batter Protein Bites.
Is there a no bake option for caramel apple cheesecake bars?
Yes! You can prepare a no bake crust and use a no bake cheesecake layer for a quick version. Get more no bake inspiration from my Healthy No Bake Desserts.
Should I use graham cracker crust or streusel topping?
Both are delicious! Classic graham cracker crust is easy and familiar, while a streusel topping adds bakery-style crunch. Try both and see which your family loves more.
Which apples are best for caramel apple cheesecake bars?
Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or any firm, tart apple works beautifully. These varieties hold up during baking and provide a bright, tangy flavor.
Can I make caramel apple cheesecake bars ahead of time?
Definitely! These bars are perfect for making a day ahead. Chill overnight for the best texture and flavor. For more make-ahead tips, see my Healthy No Bake Desserts.
For more healthy dessert tips, visit EatRight.org and get smart nutrition advice from The American Heart Association.
More Apple & Cheesecake Desserts You’ll Love
- Date Bark Recipe – A naturally sweet, chewy bar for fall snacking.
- No Bake Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies – Creamy, nutty, and quick for any time of year.
- Healthy No Bake Desserts – My favorite easy, better-for-you treats.
- 3 Ingredient No Bake Cookies – The ultimate shortcut for busy bakers.
- Mason Jar Dessert Recipes – Cute, portable, and perfect for parties or gifting!
Bake These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars & Share the Joy!
There’s nothing like the smell of apples and cinnamon baking in the kitchen, or that first creamy bite of cheesecake layered with sweet caramel and crunchy streusel. These bars are always a hit at our family table—especially when everyone sneaks back for “just one more piece!” I hope this recipe brings as much comfort and happy memories to your home as it does to mine.
If you make these Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars, I’d love to know what you think! Leave a comment below, rate the recipe, or snap a picture and tag #RecipesNCooking on social media so I can see your delicious results. Happy baking! 🍏🍎🍰
