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Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars with Streusel Topping

Two stacked apple cheesecake bars showing a thick graham cracker crust, creamy filling, apple layer, and crumb topping.
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You get the comforting taste of apple pie combined with rich, creamy cheesecake in these handheld bars. This recipe features a buttery shortbread crust, spiced apples, a smooth cheesecake layer, and a crunchy streusel topping, making it a perfect fall dessert.

Ingredients

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  • For the Crust/Streusel: 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
  • For the Apple Layer: 4 medium apples (like Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and diced
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • For the Cheesecake Layer: 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • For the Caramel Drizzle (Optional): 1/2 cup caramel sauce

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
  2. Prepare the crust and streusel: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, 1 cup granulated sugar, brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Press two-thirds (2/3) of the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust. Reserve the remaining one-third (1/3) for the streusel topping.
  4. Prepare the apple layer: In a separate bowl, toss the diced apples with 1/4 cup sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and lemon juice until coated. Set aside.
  5. Prepare the cheesecake layer: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup sugar with an electric mixer until smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract until just combined. Do not overmix.
  6. Assemble the bars: Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the crust layer. Spoon the spiced apple mixture over the cheesecake layer. Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture evenly over the apples to create the streusel topping.
  7. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is mostly set. A slight jiggle in the very center is acceptable.
  8. Let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This step is important for clean slicing.
  9. Once cool, chill the bars in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before slicing into squares.
  10. If desired, drizzle with caramel sauce before serving.

Notes

  • Use firm, tart apples like Granny Smith for the best flavor contrast against the sweet cheesecake.
  • You can use pre-made caramel sauce for a quick finish, or make your own salted caramel for extra depth.
  • This recipe works well as a make-ahead fall dessert; keep chilled until ready to serve.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://rosatasty.com/apple-cheesecake-bars-caramel-streusel-recipe/