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Kid-Approved No-Bake Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars: Easy 20-Min Dessert

no-bake caramel apple cheesecake bars - featured image
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These no-bake caramel apple cheesecake bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake layer, fresh apples, and a ribbon of caramel. Ready in 20 minutes, they’re perfect for busy weeknights or holiday dessert tables.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 16 full sheets)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • 16 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
  • 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced into small cubes (about 1/4-inch pieces)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup caramel sauce, store-bought or homemade
  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
  • Flaky sea salt (optional)

Instructions

  1. Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving overhang on two opposite sides.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and cinnamon (if using). Pour in melted butter and stir until evenly moistened. Press firmly into the prepared pan. Refrigerate while preparing other layers.
  3. Peel, core, and dice apples into small cubes. Toss with lemon juice, 1 tablespoon sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. Set aside.
  4. In a large bowl, whip cold heavy cream with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form, about 3-4 minutes. Set aside.
  5. In another large bowl, beat cream cheese, 1/2 cup sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
  6. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until just combined and no white streaks remain.
  7. Spread half of the cheesecake mixture over the chilled crust. Sprinkle the cinnamon apples evenly on top. Dollop the remaining cheesecake mixture over the apples and spread gently to cover.
  8. Warm caramel sauce slightly (about 15 seconds in microwave) until pourable. Drizzle over the top and swirl gently with a knife or toothpick.
  9. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
  10. Use parchment handles to lift the block out of the pan. Slice into 9 or 12 bars with a sharp knife, wiping clean between cuts. Serve cold.

Notes

Cream cheese must be at room temperature for a smooth filling. Press crust firmly to prevent crumbling. Chill at least 4 hours, but overnight is best for clean slices. For gluten-free, use gluten-free graham crackers. For dairy-free, use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://spoonluma.com/kid-approved-no-bake-caramel-apple-cheesecake-bars-easy-20-min-dessert/