Description
Indulge in the irresistible delight of Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars with Streusel Topping, a perfect dessert that captures the essence of autumn in every bite. These luscious bars feature a creamy cheesecake layer enriched by sweet-tart Granny Smith apples and topped with a crunchy streusel. Finished with a decadent drizzle of homemade caramel sauce, they are sure to impress at any gathering or serve as a comforting family treat. With simple preparation steps and the ability to make ahead, these bars are not only stunning but also practical. Enjoy them chilled or warm, and watch as everyone goes back for seconds.
Ingredients
- 3 medium Granny Smith apples (peeled, cored and finely chopped)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup quick cooking oats
- 1/2 cup salted butter (softened)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 cup salted butter (softened)
- 2 packages (8-ounces each) cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 4 tablespoons salted butter (for caramel sauce)
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, combine chopped Granny Smith apples, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg; set aside.
- Mix streusel topping ingredients until crumbly; set aside.
- Prepare the shortbread base by combining flour, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon with softened butter. Press into the prepared pan and bake for about 10 minutes.
- Beat softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until smooth; add eggs one at a time and mix in vanilla extract. Pour over baked crust.
- Layer apple mixture on top of the cream cheese filling and sprinkle with streusel. Bake for an additional 30-35 minutes until set.
- For caramel sauce, simmer butter, brown sugar, cream, and salt until thickened; drizzle over cooled cheesecake bars.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (65g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Use fresh Granny Smith apples for their tartness which balances sweetness. Allow bars to cool completely before slicing to maintain shape. You can substitute cream cheese with vegan options for a dairy-free alternative.