If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both comforting and indulgent, look no further than Salted Caramel Apple Cheesecake Crunch Bars! These delightful bars combine creamy cheesecake, spiced apples, and a crunchy topping, all drizzled with rich caramel. The marriage of sweet, tart apples with the smooth texture of cheesecake creates an irresistible treat, perfect for any gathering or cozy evening at home.
When you take a bite, you are met with layers of flavor and texture that dance together. The crunch of the topping, the creaminess of the cheesecake, and the sweet, gooey caramel create a sensory feast. This article will guide you through creating these show-stopping bars, covering everything from ingredients to serving suggestions. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this scrumptious dessert!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh Ingredients: Enjoy the flavorful combination of spiced apples and real cream cheese.
- Ease of Preparation: Simple steps make it achievable for bakers of all levels.
- Nutrition Boost: Apples offer fiber and vitamins while leading to a satisfying dessert.
- Versatility: Perfect for parties, potlucks, or as a cozy treat at home.
- Presentation: The bars look beautiful, with layers that are inviting and delicious.
With so much to love, you’ll find yourself making these bars again and again!
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total time: 1 hour
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 40-45 minutes
Note that times may vary.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups spiced apples, diced
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ cup caramel sauce
- Pinch of salt
How To Make Salted Caramel Apple Cheesecake Crunch Bars
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press into the bottom of the baking dish to form a crust. In another bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust. Top with diced spiced apples. In a separate bowl, combine oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Sprinkle over the apples. Drizzle caramel sauce over the top. Bake for 40-45 minutes until set. Allow to cool before slicing into bars and serve.
How to Serve
- Presentation: Cut the bars into even squares and place them on a pretty platter.
- Accompaniments: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra decadence.
- Portions: These bars are rich; smaller pieces are equally satisfying!
- Beverage Pairing: Enjoy with a warm cup of tea or a glass of apple cider for a delightful combo.
These serving tips will elevate your dessert experience!
Additional Tips
- Add a touch of lemon juice to the diced apples for brightness.
- Customize toppings by using nuts or chocolate chips in the crunch layer.
- Serve warm for a cozy fall dessert that everyone will love!
Recipe Variations
- Pumpkin Spice: Substitute the spiced apples with pumpkin puree and spices for a seasonal twist.
- Chocolate Delight: Fold in chocolate chips into the cheesecake mixture for a chocolatey flavor.
- Nutty Crust: Use crushed nuts mixed with graham cracker crumbs for an added crunch and flavor.
Freezing and Storage
- Storage: Keep the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: To freeze, wrap bars tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Special Equipment
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Spatula
- Measuring cups
- Baking parchment (optional)
FAQ’s
1. Can I use frozen apples?
Yes, you can use frozen spiced apples. Just thaw and drain any excess moisture before using.
2. Is this recipe suitable for special diets?
This recipe contains dairy and eggs, but you can explore dairy-free cream cheese and egg substitutes for a twist.
3. Can I prepare this in advance?
Absolutely! Make it a day ahead and store it in the fridge for extra flavors to meld.
4. How can I customize this recipe?
You can change the fruit, add different spices, or even layer in chocolate.
5. Are there alternative cooking methods?
Yes, you can make them in an Instant Pot or air fryer. Just adjust cooking times accordingly!
Conclusion
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Salted Caramel Apple Cheesecake Crunch Bars are the perfect dessert that combines flavor, texture, and visual appeal. Their rich, creamy filling paired with sweet apples and a crunchy topping makes them irresistible. These bars are great for special occasions or a cozy night in. So, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a dessert that will leave everyone asking for seconds! Enjoy the sweet experience!
Salted Caramel Apple Cheesecake Crunch Bars
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1.5 cups 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 0.5 cups ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake
- 2 cups 2 cups cream cheese, softened
- 1 cups 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large 2 large eggs
- 2 cups 2 cups spiced apples, diced
For the Crunch Topping
- 1 cup 1 cup rolled oats
- 0.5 cups ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- 0.5 cups ½ cup caramel sauce
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press into the bottom of the baking dish to form a crust.
Cheesecake Layer
- In another bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust.
- Top with diced spiced apples.
Crunch Topping
- In a separate bowl, combine oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
- Sprinkle over the apples.
- Drizzle caramel sauce over the top.
Baking
- Bake for 40-45 minutes until set.
- Allow to cool before slicing into bars and serve.
