When fall rolls around, there’s one dessert that always steals the spotlight: Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars. They combine everything you crave in a seasonal treat. Imagine layers of buttery graham cracker crust, creamy spiced cheesecake, tender cinnamon-kissed apples, and a luscious caramel drizzle to finish it off. Each bite is rich, cozy, and absolutely irresistible.

Whether you’re serving a crowd or just want something special to stash in your fridge for the week, these bars are as practical as they are dreamy. The balance of tart apples and velvety cheesecake keeps them from being too sweet, while the graham cracker crust adds the perfect crunch. And of course, that caramel on top? It’s like the cherry on a sundae.

Why You’ll Love This Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe

These bars take everything wonderful about cheesecake and give it an autumn twist. They’re easier than making a full cheesecake but just as impressive. The layers are distinct but come together beautifully when chilled, and they slice cleanly for neat, bakery-style squares. This is one of those desserts that looks complicated but is secretly simple.

Plus, they make a fantastic make-ahead treat for Thanksgiving, fall potlucks, or just a cozy weekend at home. You can enjoy them chilled straight from the fridge or bring them to room temperature for a softer, more decadent bite.

What Kind of Apples Should I Use for Cheesecake Bars?

For the best results, you’ll want apples that hold their shape and offer a balance of tartness. Granny Smith is a classic choice because it doesn’t turn mushy and cuts through the sweetness with its natural tart flavor. Honeycrisp also works well, offering a juicier bite with a slight sweetness. Avoid Red Delicious, which can become too soft and bland once baked.

Ingredients for the Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Name: Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 4 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 and 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 large eggs; 2 cups chopped apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp); 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1/3 cup caramel sauce

These bars have three irresistible layers and a topping, and each one brings something important to the table. Here’s what you need:

Graham cracker crumbs create a solid, crunchy base with a buttery note.

Granulated sugar is used in the crust and the cheesecake filling to add sweetness and structure.

Unsalted butter holds the crust together and adds rich flavor.

Cream cheese is the heart of the cheesecake layer, making it luscious and smooth.

Eggs give structure and set the cheesecake layer beautifully when baked.

Vanilla extract enhances all the flavors with warmth and depth.

Apples provide a tender, juicy top layer that pairs perfectly with the rich cheesecake.

Ground cinnamon brings that unmistakable cozy fall flavor to the apple layer.

All-purpose flour thickens the apple topping slightly so it stays put.

Caramel sauce is the final touch, adding a sweet and glossy finish to every bite.

How To Make the Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper. In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press it firmly into the bottom of your pan. Bake for 8 minutes and let cool.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

Beat the cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar and vanilla. Mix until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust.

Step 3: Make the Apple Topping

In another bowl, toss peeled, chopped apples with sugar, cinnamon, and flour. Gently scatter the apples over the cheesecake layer.

Step 4: Bake and Cool

Bake the bars for about 40-45 minutes or until the center is just set. Let them cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.

Step 5: Slice and Drizzle

Before serving, slice into bars and drizzle generously with caramel sauce. You can use store-bought or homemade caramel, whichever you prefer.

How to Serve and Store Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

These bars are best served chilled. The creamy texture really shines when cold, and the caramel firms up just enough to hold its shape. They’re rich, so a small square goes a long way, making this recipe perfect for serving 12 to 16 people depending on how you slice it.

To store them, cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them without the caramel drizzle for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before serving and add fresh caramel on top.

What to Serve With Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars?

A Warm Cup of Coffee

The richness of the cheesecake and the warm cinnamon apples pair perfectly with a bold cup of coffee.

Spiced Apple Cider

Double up on fall vibes with a mug of apple cider. The spices echo the cinnamon in the bars.

Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

For an indulgent dessert plate, add a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream right beside your chilled bar.

Whipped Cream

A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream is an easy, airy companion.

Chopped Pecans

Sprinkle some toasted pecans on top for a little extra crunch and nutty flavor.

Sea Salt Flakes

If you love that salty-sweet combo, a pinch of flaky sea salt over the caramel layer does wonders.

Mulled Wine

For adult gatherings, a glass of warm mulled wine sets the perfect cozy mood.

Maple Glazed Bacon

Sounds surprising, but crispy maple-glazed bacon makes an amazing contrast to the sweet, creamy bars.

Want More Cheesecake Dessert Ideas?

If you’re into unique takes on classic cheesecake flavors, check out these creative desserts on Janet Dishes:

Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls for a fruity and fun twist.
Peanut Butter S’mores Sandwich Cookies that combine campfire nostalgia with creamy indulgence.
Easter Cake Mix Cookie Bars that bring seasonal flair into chewy cookie bar form.
Ooey Gooey Butter Cake if you love soft and sticky melt-in-your-mouth treats.
Lemon Truffles Recipe for something tangy, sweet, and bite-sized.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use Granny Smiths or go with Honeycrisp? Do you make your own caramel or go store-bought?

I love seeing the little tweaks and additions people make. Ask questions, share tips, and let’s inspire each other in the kitchen.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and seasonal desserts on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your new favorite way to treat yourself.

Conclusion

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate fall dessert. With their cozy apple-cinnamon topping, creamy cheesecake center, and buttery graham base, they’re a guaranteed hit. Whether you’re making them for a holiday table or just because, this is one of those recipes that earns repeat requests every time.