Name: Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box white cake mix (dry); 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted); 16 ounces cream cheese (softened); 1 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk; 2 eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3 cups diced apples (peeled, cored and finely diced); 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup caramel sauce; 1 tablespoon flour; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; Additional caramel sauce (for drizzle on top)

Jump to Recipe

If you adore the classic flavor duo of tart apples and creamy cheesecake, these Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars will absolutely steal your heart. Imagine tender bites of cinnamon-scented apples nestled into a rich cheesecake layer, all on a buttery cake crust and finished with a dreamy caramel drizzle. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or just because, this dessert turns a favorite autumn combination into a foolproof treat that’ll disappear faster than you can say “save me a square!”

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars rely on simple, store-cupboard staples and a few fresh ingredients. Each plays a key role in crafting a treat that’s perfectly balanced in flavor and texture, with layers you’ll savor in every bite.

White cake mix (1 box, dry): This handy shortcut creates a sweet, sturdy base and doubles as a golden crumb topping.
Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): Blending melted butter with cake mix delivers a rich, cohesive crust and gorgeous flavor.
Cream cheese (16 ounces, softened): The creamy foundation of the cheesecake layer—let it come to room temperature for the smoothest results.
Sweetened condensed milk (1 14-ounce can): This liquid gold brings sweetness and a luscious texture to the cheesecake.
Eggs (2): Eggs bind the cheesecake filling, ensuring it bakes up with structure and silkiness.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): A splash of vanilla deepens all the flavors and adds irresistible warmth.
Apples (3 cups, peeled, cored, and finely diced): Pick crisp, tart apples for the perfect balance—Granny Smiths work wonders.
Brown sugar (1/4 cup): Adds caramel notes and a whisper of molasses that pairs beautifully with apples.
Caramel sauce (1/4 cup + more for drizzling): Swirled into the apple mixture and poured on top for that signature sweet finish.
Flour (1 tablespoon): Helps thicken the apple layer so it stays luscious, not runny.
Cinnamon (1 teaspoon): The ultimate spice for apples, bringing warmth to every bite.

How to Make Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Crust and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and giving a 9×13 inch metal pan a good coating of nonstick spray or a swipe of butter. This simple preparation ensures your Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars lift out beautifully, keeping every layer intact for picture-perfect servings.

Step 2: Mix Up the Crust

In a large bowl, combine the dry white cake mix with the melted butter. It should come together into a soft, crumbly mixture that’s easy to press into the pan—no fancy equipment required! Pat 2/3 of the mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan, holding back the rest for the final crumb topping.

Step 3: Whip the Cheesecake Filling

Grab a clean bowl and beat the cream cheese until it’s luxuriously smooth, banishing any lumps. Slowly whisk in the sweetened condensed milk until seamless, then add the eggs and vanilla. This blend is the creamy soul of your Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars, so take a moment to ensure it’s completely combined and satiny.

Step 4: Toss the Apple Mixture

In another bowl, gently toss the diced apples with brown sugar, caramel sauce, flour, and cinnamon. Each apple piece should be kissed by caramel and spice, ready to melt into the cheesecake with a hint of crunch and a pop of juicy flavor.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Now comes the fun part. Pour the cheesecake filling over your crust, smoothing it into the corners. Spoon the glossy apple mixture over the top, spreading it out evenly. Crumble the reserved cake mix-butter blend over the apples—it’ll bake up golden and sweet. Into the oven it goes for about 35 minutes, or until the edges are a lovely golden brown and the center is just set. Cool completely, then refrigerate so the bars slice up neat and thick. Right before serving, don’t forget to drizzle a generous swirl of caramel sauce on top for that signature finish!

How to Serve Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Garnishes

For truly irresistible Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars, finish with glossy ribbons of caramel sauce drizzled right before serving. Try a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of extra cinnamon, or a dusting of crushed toffee bits for extra flair that complements the apple-caramel goodness.

Side Dishes

These bars shine on their own, but you can elevate a dessert spread with small bowls of fresh berries, spiced nuts, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For autumn gatherings, hot apple cider or coffee pairs beautifully, letting each bite of cheesecake bar melt luxuriously between sips.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting the bars into bite-sized squares and serving them on decorative platters for parties or showers. Stack them in jars for adorable individual treats, or layer pieces with extra caramel and whipped cream in parfait glasses for a playful twist on classic Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled and set, cover the Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars with plastic wrap or transfer them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator, where they’ll keep their freshness and flavor for up to five days. The layers hold up beautifully when chilled, making them a perfect make-ahead dessert for busy weeks or on-the-go snacking.

Freezing

These bars freeze incredibly well! Arrange sliced, completely cooled bars in a single layer, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil, or pop them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll last for up to two months. When you’re ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and drizzle with fresh caramel for best results.

Reheating

If you love a warm, gooey dessert, pop individual bars in the microwave for about 10 seconds. This gently softens the cheesecake and brings out the cozy aroma of caramel and cinnamon apples—it’s almost like eating a fresh-out-of-the-oven Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bar!

FAQs

Can I use a different cake mix flavor for the crust?

Yes! You can try yellow cake mix for a slightly richer flavor, or spice cake mix for a warming spiced note that plays beautifully with the apples. Just keep the quantities the same and enjoy experimenting.

What kind of apples work best in Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars?

Firm, slightly tart apples such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal. They hold their shape during baking and balance the sweet cheesecake and caramel perfectly. Softer apples might break down too much and become mushy.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Absolutely. Swap your favorite gluten-free cake mix for the standard white cake mix, and check that your other ingredients (especially caramel sauce) are gluten-free as needed. The rest of the method remains the same.

Do I have to peel the apples?

For the smoothest, most classic experience, peeled apples are best. Peels can add chewiness and interrupt the creamy texture, but if you love a bit of rustic flair and extra fiber, feel free to leave them on!

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The edges should be golden brown, and the center should jiggle just slightly when shaken gently. If you’re unsure, a toothpick inserted near the center should come out mostly clean, but a little cheesecake clinging to it is fine—it will set more as it cools.

Final Thoughts

Once you try these Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars, you’ll understand why they’re a treasured favorite—every bite is an autumn celebration in dessert form. From their buttery crust to that cascade of caramel on top, there’s magic in every square. Gather your loved ones (and maybe save a piece for yourself), because you’re about to win hearts with this irresistible treat!

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 24 reviews

Author: Sophie
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 12 bars 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the delicious flavors of fall with these Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars. A perfect combination of creamy cheesecake, sweet caramel, and tart apples layered on a buttery cake crust.

Instructions

Make the Crust – Preheat the oven to 350℉ and grease a 9×13 inch metal pan. Combine the dry cake mix and melted butter. Press 2/3 of the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan; set aside.
Make the Cheesecake Filling – Place the cream cheese in a large bowl and stir until smooth. Slowly add the sweetened condensed milk with a whisk to make sure it’s mixed well. Add the eggs and vanilla and stir until well-combined.
Make the Apple Mixture – In a large bowl, combine the apples, brown sugar, caramel sauce, flour, and cinnamon.
Assemble and Bake – Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust. Spoon the apple mixture over the cheesecake filling. Top with the remaining crumb mixture. Bake for 35 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
Let cool completely then refrigerate until ready to serve.
Top with caramel sauce and serve.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American