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Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with these delectable Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars! Perfectly blending creamy cheesecake, warm baked apples, and rich caramel, these bars create a delightful dessert experience. With a buttery graham cracker crust and optional toppings like nuts and extra caramel, they are ideal for gatherings or a sweet treat at home. Learn how to make this delicious recipe that captures the essence of autumn and impresses every guest!
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Ingredients
  

For the crust:

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

½ cup unsalted butter, melted

¼ cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon cinnamon

For the filling:

16 oz cream cheese, softened

¾ cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

½ teaspoon cinnamon

2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and finely chopped (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)

1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the caramel sauce:

1 cup brown sugar

½ cup unsalted butter

¼ cup heavy cream

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Pinch of salt

For the topping:

Extra caramel sauce (for drizzling)

Chopped nuts (optional, for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease an 8x8-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.

    Make the crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, granulated sugar, and cinnamon. Stir until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool.

      Prepare the filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Gently fold in the chopped apples.

        Pour the filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly golden around the edges. Allow the cheesecake to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

          Make the caramel sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar and butter. Stir until the mixture is melted and smooth. Slowly add the heavy cream while whisking continuously until the sauce is well combined and slightly thickened (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Let it cool slightly.

            Assemble the dessert: Once the cheesecake has chilled completely, carefully lift it out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Cut into bars. Drizzle the cooled caramel sauce over the top of the cheesecake bars. If desired, sprinkle with chopped nuts for added texture.

              Serve and enjoy! These delicious Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are perfect for dessert or a sweet treat at gatherings!

                Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 3 hours | Servings: 16 bars