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Best No-Bake Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars Recipe

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These no-bake caramel apple cheesecake bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy cheesecake filling, and a sautéed apple topping with caramel sauce. Perfect for fall gatherings, they require no oven and come together in about 30 minutes of active work.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 14–16 full sheets, crushed finely)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup heavy cream, cold
  • 3 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced (about 1/8-inch thick)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/2 cup store-bought caramel sauce
  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Pan: Line your 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a 2-inch overhang on two sides. Lightly grease the parchment with non-stick spray.
  2. Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and salt. Stir until every crumb is coated. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to pack it down. Refrigerate while making the filling.
  3. Whip the Cream Cheese Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, and beat until combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
  4. Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form, about 3-4 minutes. Fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture gently with a spatula until just combined.
  5. Assemble the First Layer: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula. Refrigerate while cooking the apples.
  6. Sauté the Apples: In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons butter. Add sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir to coat. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until apples are tender but still hold their shape. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
  7. Layer the Apples: Arrange the sautéed apple slices evenly over the cream cheese layer. Drizzle about 1/4 cup of caramel sauce over the apples. Sprinkle pecans on top if using.
  8. Chill and Set: Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
  9. Slice and Serve: Once set, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Place on a cutting board and slice into 9 squares. Drizzle with remaining caramel sauce just before serving.

Notes

Don’t skip the chilling time—at least 6 hours, preferably overnight. Room temperature cream cheese is key for a smooth filling. Don’t overcook the apples; they should be tender but still hold their shape. For clean slices, run a knife under hot water, wipe dry, then slice. Make these a day ahead for best flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: no-bake cheesecake, caramel apple, fall dessert, cheesecake bars, apple dessert, no-bake dessert

Find it online: https://cooksybite.com/best-no-bake-caramel-apple-cheesecake-bars-recipe/