Caramel Apple Blondie Cheesecake Bars Recipe

The Perfect Caramel Apple Blondie Cheesecake Bars Recipe for Fall

Sweet caramel apple blondie cheesecake bars invite you to indulge in a delightful dessert adventure.

Layers of creamy goodness mingle with rich, gooey caramel and tender apple chunks.

Crisp autumn memories dance through each delectable bite.

Soft blondie base creates a golden canvas for decadent flavors.

Perfectly balanced ingredients promise a mouthwatering experience that feels like a warm hug.

Seasonal spices whisper comfort in every single square.

Unwrap this magical treat and let pure deliciousness sweep you into dessert paradise.

Why Caramel Apple Blondie Cheesecake Bars Are a Hit

  • Conquer Complex Desserts: Break down this seemingly intricate recipe into manageable steps that even novice bakers can master with confidence.
  • Create Show-Stopping Layers: Impress family and friends with a dessert featuring stunning visual appeal through beautifully crafted cheesecake, blondie, and caramel components.
  • Perfect Seasonal Celebration: Transform classic fall flavors of apple and caramel into a decadent dessert that captures the essence of autumn gatherings and cozy moments.
  • Multi-Textural Delight: Experience a spectacular combination of creamy cheesecake, tender blondie, crunchy graham cracker base, and smooth caramel in every single bite.

Ingredients for These Gooey, Fruity Bars

Crust Ingredients:
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: The base foundation that provides a classic, crunchy texture for the dessert bars.
  • Unsalted Butter: Helps bind the crust and adds a rich, smooth flavor.
Cheesecake Layer Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese: Creates a smooth, tangy base for the cheesecake layer.
  • Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese mixture.
  • Large Eggs: Provide structure and richness to the cheesecake layer.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, aromatic flavor to the cheesecake.
  • Sour Cream: Enhances the creamy texture and adds a subtle tanginess.
Blondie Layer Ingredients:
  • Unsalted Butter: Provides moisture and richness to the blondie batter.
  • Brown Sugar: Adds deep, caramel-like sweetness to the blondie layer.
  • Large Egg: Helps bind the blondie batter together.
  • Vanilla Extract: Contributes a warm, classic flavor.
  • All-Purpose Flour: Creates the base structure for the blondie layer.
  • Ground Cinnamon: Adds a warm, spicy note to complement the apples.
  • Fresh Apples: Bring a fresh, sweet-tart flavor and juicy texture to the bars.
Topping Ingredient:
  • Caramel Sauce: Provides a rich, sweet finish that ties all the layers together.

Bake the Best Blondie Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank the oven to 350°F and grab a 9×13-inch baking pan. Line it with parchment paper, letting the edges hang over for easy bar removal.

Step 2: Create the Crunchy Base

Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until they stick together perfectly. Press this mixture firmly into the pan’s bottom, creating a solid foundation for your delicious treat.

Step 3: Whip Up the Creamy Cheesecake Layer

Grab an electric mixer and blend cream cheese with granulated sugar until silky smooth. Add eggs one by one, then mix in vanilla extract and sour cream. The mixture should look dreamy and luxurious.

Step 4: Spread the Cheesecake

Pour the cream cheese mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust. Spread carefully to cover every inch of the base.

Step 5: Mix the Blondie Batter

In a separate bowl, cream together:
  • Softened butter
  • Brown sugar

Whip until light and fluffy. Blend in the egg and vanilla extract.

Step 6: Finish the Blondie Base

Gently fold in:
  • Flour
  • Cinnamon

Mix until just combined. Don’t overmix or you’ll lose the tender texture.

Step 7: Add the Apple Magic

Sprinkle diced apples over the cheesecake layer. Carefully spread the blondie batter on top, ensuring even coverage.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. Look for a golden top and a toothpick that comes out with just a few moist crumbs.

Step 9: Cool Down

Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan for about an hour.

Step 10: Drizzle the Caramel Goodness

Once cooled, drizzle caramel sauce generously over the bars. Create a beautiful pattern that will make mouths water.

Step 11: Chill and Set

Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let everything set perfectly.

Step 12: Slice and Serve

Cut into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy the incredible layers of graham cracker, creamy cheesecake, soft blondie, and caramel-apple deliciousness.

Top Tips for Layering Apples, Blondies & Cheesecake

  • Prevent Soggy Bottom: Pat apple pieces dry with paper towels before adding to prevent excess moisture from making the crust soggy.
  • Smooth Cheesecake Layer: Use room temperature cream cheese and mix on low speed to avoid incorporating too much air, which can cause cracking.
  • Swirl Blondie Batter: Gently drag a knife through the blondie batter to create a decorative marbled effect on top of the cheesecake layer.
  • Control Caramel Drizzle: Warm caramel sauce slightly and use a squeeze bottle or spoon to create precise, beautiful drizzle patterns.
  • Slice Perfectly Chilled: Wipe knife with hot water between cuts to achieve clean, crisp edges when serving the bars.

Delicious Twists for Your Caramel Apple Bars

  • Pumpkin Spice Apple Blondie Cheesecake Bars: Replace cinnamon with pumpkin pie spice and add 1/2 cup pumpkin puree to the blondie batter for a cozy autumn-inspired version.
  • Salted Caramel Pecan Variation: Sprinkle chopped pecans over the caramel drizzle and add a pinch of sea salt to enhance the sweet and salty flavor profile.
  • Berry Swirl Blondie Cheesecake Bars: Swirl raspberry or strawberry preserves into the cheesecake layer before adding the blondie topping for a fruity burst of flavor.
  • Maple Walnut Edition: Substitute brown sugar with maple syrup in the blondie batter and fold in chopped walnuts for a rich, nutty transformation.

Pairing Picks for These Fall-Inspired Bars

  • Complement Coffee: Brew a medium-roast Colombian coffee with subtle caramel undertones that enhance the dessert's rich sweetness and highlight the apple's warm spices.
  • Match Dessert Wine: Select a late-harvest Riesling with honeyed notes and balanced acidity, which cuts through the creamy cheesecake and echoes the caramel's deep flavor profile.
  • Elevate Beverage Experience: Craft a warm chai latte with cinnamon and cardamom that mirrors the blondie's spice notes and provides a comforting contrast to the cool, creamy cheesecake layers.

How to Store Caramel Apple Blondie Bars Properly

  • Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, keeping them fresh and maintaining their creamy texture.
  • Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag, where they'll stay delicious for up to 3 months.
  • Keep the bars at cool room temperature for no more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage, especially due to the cream cheese and fresh apple ingredients.
  • Always serve chilled for the best flavor and texture, allowing the layers to hold their shape and providing a delightful contrast of cool creaminess and sweet caramel.

Cheesecake Blondie FAQs You’ll Want to Know

  • Can I use a different type of fruit instead of apples?

You can substitute apples with pears or peaches for a similar texture and flavor profile.

  • How do I know if the blondie layer is properly baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center – it should come out with a few moist crumbs, indicating the blondie is perfectly cooked without being dry.

  • Is it necessary to use an electric mixer for the cheesecake layer?

An electric mixer helps create a smoother, lump-free cheesecake layer, but you can use a whisk and some arm strength if needed.

  • Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Replace graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free graham crackers and use gluten-free all-purpose flour for the blondie layer to create a gluten-free version.

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Caramel Apple Blondie Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Caramel Apple Blondie Cheesecake Bars Recipe


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4.9 from 25 reviews

  • Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Indulgent caramel apple blondie cheesecake bars blend classic American dessert flavors into one irresistible treat. Creamy cheesecake layers nestled between spiced apple blondie create a delectable experience you cannot resist.


Ingredients

Scale

Crust:

  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Layer:

  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup sour cream

Blondie and Topping Layer:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 medium apples, diced
  • 1/2 cup caramel sauce
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess to hang over the sides for easy removal.
  2. Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until thoroughly combined, then press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to create an even crust.
  3. Using an electric mixer, blend cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy, then incorporate eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract and sour cream.
  4. Pour the cream cheese mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust, spreading it carefully to cover the entire surface.
  5. In a separate bowl, cream together softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, then mix in the egg and vanilla extract.
  6. Gently fold flour and cinnamon into the blondie batter until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
  7. Sprinkle diced apples over the cheesecake layer, then carefully spread the blondie batter on top, ensuring even coverage.
  8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean with a few moist crumbs.
  9. Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan for about 1 hour.
  10. Drizzle caramel sauce generously over the cooled bars, creating an attractive pattern.
  11. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set completely before cutting into squares.
  12. Slice into bars and serve chilled, enjoying the rich layers of graham cracker, cheesecake, blondie, and caramel apple goodness.

Notes

  • Chill cream cheese to room temperature before mixing to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth, creamy texture.
  • Use fresh, crisp apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best balance of tartness and texture in the bars.
  • Avoid overmixing the blondie batter to keep the bars tender and prevent a tough, dense consistency.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs and use gluten-free flour in the blondie layer.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 325
  • Sugar: 22 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 38 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 55 mg
Truc Tran (Kris)

Truc Tran (Kris)

Senior Food Editor

Expertise

Home Cooking, Meal Planning, Recipe Development, Baking and Pastry, Food Editor, Cooking-video Maker, Vietnamese Food Evaluation Expert

Education

  • Hospitality (Commercial Cookery) at TasTAFE
  • Culinary Arts at Kendall College (Australia Branch in Sydney)
  • Vietnamese Cuisine Head Chef at HNAAu School (Vietnam, International Joint Training Program)

Truc Tran (Kris), an experienced food writer and editor, is great at exploring and describing global cuisines, from simple street food to fancy dining. In her writing, she skillfully mixes different flavors, cooking methods, and culinary traditions, showing the unique character of various cultures through their food and drinks. On azcuisines.com, Kris highlights her knowledge, especially in Asian cuisine and worldwide traditional dishes.

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