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Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

apple cheesecake bars - Tasty
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Bake these layered bars featuring a buttery crust, creamy cheesecake filling, spiced apple topping, and a drizzle of caramel.

Ingredients

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  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into pieces
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 medium apples (like Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and diced
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal.
  2. Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, mix the flour, brown sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake the crust for 10 minutes.
  3. Prepare the cheesecake layer: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup granulated sugar until smooth. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until just combined. Pour this mixture over the warm, pre-baked crust.
  4. Prepare the apple layer: In a small bowl, toss the diced apples with 1/4 cup granulated sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Spoon the spiced apples evenly over the cheesecake layer.
  5. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is mostly firm.
  6. Let the bars cool completely on a wire rack. Once cool, drizzle the top evenly with caramel sauce.
  7. Chill the bars in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before lifting out using the parchment overhang and cutting into squares.

Notes

  • Use firm, tart apples like Granny Smith for the best texture and flavor contrast.
  • For a streusel topping, reserve 1/2 cup of the crust mixture before pressing it into the pan, then sprinkle it over the apples before baking.
  • You can make these ahead; they store well covered in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://delishdreams.com/apple-cheesecake-bars-recipe/