#Salted Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe
##Introduction
Dive into the wonderful flavors of fall with these Salted Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars. Sweet, salty, and irresistibly creamy, they’re the go-to treat for any dessert occasion or simply a cozy night in.
##Why Make This Recipe
These Salted Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars do an exceptional job of combining the luxuriousness of a classic cheesecake with the beloved seasonal flavors of apple and caramel. It’s your chance to create a dessert masterpiece that satisfies sweet and salty cravings all at once.
##How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
###Ingredients
####For the Crust:
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
####For the cheesecake filling:
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
####For the apple topping:
– 2 large apples, peeled and finely sliced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1/2 tsp cinnamon
####For the salted caramel sauce:
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 tsp sea salt
###Directions
Follow these steps to make your own delicious batch of Salted Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press this mixture firmly into the pan to create an even crust.
3. In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Gradually add in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract; continue to beat. Pour this mixture over the crust.
4. To prepare the apple topping, melt butter over medium heat in a skillet. Add the finely sliced apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Stir until the apples are soft and caramelized (about 5-7 minutes). Spread this over the cheesecake layer.
5. Bake the assembled bars for 40-45 minutes until the edges are set, and the center is slightly jiggly. Let the bars cool to room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours.
6. To make the salted caramel sauce, heat the sugar in a saucepan over medium heat until it melts and turns a beautiful amber color. Add butter and stir until combined. Slowly whisk in cream and salt, then remove from heat and let it cool.
7. Drizzle the cooled salted caramel sauce over the cheesecake bars. Your Salted Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars are ready to serve!
##How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
These bars should be served chilled. Before serving, slice them into squares and drizzle the salted caramel on top. For a special touch, add a dollop of whipped cream on each and a sprinkle of sea salt.
##How to Store Salted Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
Store these treats in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days. If you want to make them in advance and freeze them, hold off on the salted caramel sauce until you’re ready to serve.
##Tips to Make Salted Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
– Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before you start for easier blending.
– Choose tart apples like Granny Smith for a balanced flavor.
– Let your cheesecake bars cool fully before cutting into them. This will give you clean slices.
##Variation
For a twist, you could add a pinch of nutmeg to the apple topping. Or sprinkle some chopped pecans on top of the caramel for a delightful crunch!
##FAQs
**1. Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?**
Yes, you can use any cookie crumbs you prefer, like vanilla wafers or shortbread.
**2. How can you tell when the cheesecake bars are done baking?**
The edges should be set, but the very center will still slightly wiggle when you move the pan. It will harden as it cools down.
**3. Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?**
Yes, store-bought caramel sauce can be used if you’re short on time. Just remember, to sprinkle a little sea salt on top to achieve the ‘salted caramel’ flavor.