Description

An easy, no-water-bath fall dessert combining a graham cracker crust, rich cream cheese filling, sautéed apples, and caramel sauce in a single pan.

Ingredients

Scale

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
½ teaspoon cinnamon
24 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs, room temperature
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
½ cup sour cream
3 medium apples (Honeycrisp or Gala), peeled and diced
2 tablespoons butter
¼ cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 cup store-bought caramel sauce
Sea salt flakes, optional

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper and grease lightly.
In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, 2 tablespoons sugar, and ½ teaspoon cinnamon. Press firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
Bake crust for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Remove and let cool.
In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and 1 cup sugar until smooth. Scrape down sides and beat for another 2 minutes.
Add sour cream and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed just until incorporated. Do not overmix.
In a medium skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add diced apples, ¼ cup brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Cook for 5-7 minutes until tender and coated in caramel. Remove from heat.
Pour cream cheese filling over the warm crust and spread evenly.
Spoon sautéed apples over the filling. Drizzle caramel sauce over the top.
Bake for 35-40 minutes until edges are set and center has a slight jiggle.
Cool in the pan on a wire rack for 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Lift bars out using parchment paper, slice into squares, and serve chilled.

Notes

Ensure cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps. Do not overmix after adding eggs to prevent cracking. Sautéing apples first ensures they are tender and flavorful. Bars must be chilled for at least 4 hours for clean cuts. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Category: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 280
Sugar: 24
Sodium: 180
Fat: 15
Saturated Fat: 9
Carbohydrates: 32
Fiber: 1
Protein: 5

Keywords: fall dessert, cheesecake bars, caramel apple, easy baking, make-ahead dessert, graham cracker crust