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When it comes to creating an impressive dessert, layering is not just about aesthetics; it significantly enhances the texture and flavor experience. For our Caramel Apple Cinnamon Cheesecake Bars, each layer serves a distinct purpose. The buttery graham cracker crust provides a crunchy base that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheesecake filling. The apple topping adds a fresh and fruity element, while the caramel sauce introduces a rich sweetness that ties everything together.

Apple Cinnamon Cheesecake Bars

Indulge in the heavenly flavors of Caramel Apple Cinnamon Cheesecake Bars! This delightful dessert captures the essence of fall, combining creamy cheesecake, tart Granny Smith apples, and a buttery graham cracker crust. Topped with warm cinnamon and drizzled with rich caramel, each bite offers a comforting mix of textures and tastes. Perfect for any gathering or cozy night in, these bars promise to impress friends and family alike with their deliciousness. Explore the recipe to create this stunning treat that will elevate your dessert game!
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Ingredients
  

For the crust:

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

½ cup unsalted butter, melted

¼ cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the cheesecake layer:

16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese, softened to room temperature

1 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs, at room temperature

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ cup sour cream

For the apple topping:

2 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 tablespoon lemon juice

¼ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Prepare an 8x8 inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang on the sides for easy removal later.

    Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon. Mix until the ingredients are well blended and form a crumbly mixture. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then remove and let it cool while you prepare the cheesecake layer.

      Prepare the Cheesecake Layer: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until it is completely smooth. Gradually add in the granulated sugar, continuing to mix until the mixture is creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring that each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Next, mix in the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and sour cream until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

        Assemble the Layers: Pour the cheesecake mixture onto the cooled crust, spreading it evenly across the surface.

          Prepare the Apple Topping: In a separate bowl, combine the thinly sliced apples with the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and lemon juice. Toss well to ensure all the apple slices are coated. Arrange the apple slices decoratively on top of the cheesecake layer.

            Add Caramel Sauce: Drizzle the caramel sauce over the arranged apple slices, ensuring a nice coverage across the top.

              Bake: Place the assembled dessert in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set but with a slight jiggle in the center.

                Cool: After baking, turn off the oven and crack the oven door ajar to let the cheesecake bars cool for approximately one hour. Then, transfer the pan to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to fully set.

                  Serve: Once chilled, lift the cheesecake bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into 12 squares. For an extra treat, drizzle with additional caramel sauce before serving.

                    Prep Time: 25 mins | Total Time: 5 hours | Servings: 12 bars

                      - Presentation Tips: For an eye-catching presentation, serve the bars on a decorative platter, garnished with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon and a few apple slices on the side. Enjoy!