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Ultimate Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars with Streusel Topping

Two rich apple cheesecake bars with a thick graham cracker crust, creamy layer, apple filling, and crumb topping.
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Make these layered apple cheesecake bars featuring a buttery crust, creamy filling, spiced apples, and a crunchy streusel topping. This recipe provides the perfect handheld dessert for fall gatherings or Thanksgiving.

Ingredients

  • For the Crust/Streusel: 2 cups graham cracker crumbs, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup packed brown sugar, 1 cup (2 sticks) 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 cornstarch
  • For the Cheesecake Filling: 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. Prepare the crust and streusel: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/2 cup sugar, flour, and brown sugar. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside 1 1/2 cups of this mixture for the streusel topping; press the remaining mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking pan lined with parchment paper. Bake the crust at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
  2. Prepare the apple layer: While the crust bakes, toss the diced apples with 1/4 cup sugar, cinnamon, and cornstarch in a separate bowl. Set aside.
  3. Prepare the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup sugar until smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract until just combined. Do not overmix.
  4. Assemble the bars: Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the warm, pre-baked crust. Spoon the spiced apple mixture over the cheesecake layer. Sprinkle the reserved 1 1/2 cups of crumb mixture evenly over the apples to create the streusel topping.
  5. Bake: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is mostly firm.
  6. Cool and serve: Let the bars cool completely on a wire rack before chilling them in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. Cut into squares. Drizzle with caramel sauce before serving if desired.

Notes

  • For a more intense apple flavor, use a mix of tart and sweet apples.
  • If you prefer a shortbread crust instead of graham cracker, substitute 1 cup of the graham cracker crumbs with all-purpose flour in the crust mixture.
  • Chill the bars thoroughly; this helps the cheesecake layer set firmly for clean cuts.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cravybite.link/apple-cheesecake-bars-ultimate-caramel-streusel/