Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the leaves start to fall, it’s time to usher in the comforting flavors of the season. One bite of these Easy Caramel Apple Blondie Cheesecake Bars, and you’ll feel like you’ve wrapped yourself in a cozy sweater. The irresistible combination of creamy cheesecake and warm, soft apple blondies is not only easy to whip up but a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any gathering. Plus, they’re gluten-free, so everyone can indulge! Perfect for when you want a homemade dessert without the fuss, these bars are drizzled with rich caramel for that sweet finish. Are you ready to bring the essence of autumn into your kitchen with this delightful recipe? Why Choose Caramel Apple Blondies? Irresistible Flavor: The rich blend of gooey caramel, fresh apples, and creamy cheesecake will have everyone coming back for seconds. Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can create a dessert that looks and tastes gourmet without spending hours in the kitchen. Gluten-Free Delight: Using a gluten-free flour blend ensures that everyone can enjoy these delicious bars, making them a perfect treat for gatherings. Fall Favorite: This recipe perfectly captures autumn in every bite, making it a cozy addition to your seasonal dessert lineup. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive gathering, these bars are versatile enough for any setting. Meal Prep Friendly: Bake a batch ahead of time and store them in your fridge. They’re great for surprise guests or a sweet snack throughout the week! For more fabulous baking ideas, check out our easy desserts or explore gluten-free recipes to suit all tastes! Caramel Apple Blondie Ingredients • For the Blondie Base Sugar – Adds sweetness; you can substitute with a sugar alternative for a lower-calorie option. Eggs – Acts as a binding agent; make sure they’re lightly beaten before mixing in. Vegetable Oil – Provides moisture; melted butter can be used for a richer flavor. Flour – Creates structure; opt for a gluten-free blend like Cup4Cup to keep it gluten-free. Salt – Enhances the overall flavor. Baking Powder – Serves as a leavening agent for a nice rise. Ground Cinnamon – Offers a warm, aromatic flavor; you can swap it for apple pie spice if you’d like. Golden Delicious Apples – Adds freshness and a soft texture; peel and dice them for the best results. • For the Cheesecake Filling Cream Cheese – The creamy base for the filling; ensure it’s softened for easy blending. Sugar – Sweetens the cheesecake layer; regular granulated sugar works well. Egg – Helps bind the filling together; use a large egg for the best texture. Vanilla – Enhances the dessert’s flavor profile. • For the Topping Chopped Nuts (Pecans or Walnuts) – Adds crunch; feel free to omit for a nut-free alternative. Butterscotch Chips – Boosts sweetness and texture; check for gluten-free labels if necessary. Optional Caramel Topping – Drizzle on top for added sweetness and visual appeal. With these ingredients, you’re set to create not just any dessert, but a delicious Caramel Apple Blondie that captures the essence of fall! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Caramel Apple Blondie Cheesecake Bars Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming up, take a 9×13 inch baking pan and generously spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This preparation ensures that once your batter is ready, it goes smoothly into the oven without any fuss. Step 2: Prepare the Blondie Base In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, eggs, and vegetable oil until the mixture is well combined and slightly frothy. Gradually mix in the flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon until a thick, dough-like consistency forms. This base will create the foundation of your Caramel Apple Blondie Cheesecake Bars, resembling a rich cookie dough. Step 3: Add the Flavorful Mix-Ins Fold in the diced Golden Delicious apples, butterscotch chips, and chopped nuts, using your hands if necessary to tangibly incorporate everything. The dough will be thick, but don’t worry; this texture is perfect for holding your delicious mix-ins. Set aside about 2 cups of this dough for later topping. Step 4: Form the Base Layer Press the remaining blondie dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan. Use your fingers or the back of a spatula to ensure it is smooth and reaches the corners. This step is crucial for creating that sturdy base for your cheesecake filling and will set the stage for the beautiful layers to come. Step 5: Make the Cheesecake Filling In a separate small bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This cheesecake filling adds a luscious layer to your bars, providing a delightful contrast to the tender blondie base below. Pour this mixture over the pressed blondie base, spreading it evenly. Step 6: Add the Drizzle of Dough Spoon the reserved blondie dough over the cheesecake layer in small dollops, leaving some of the creamy filling visible. This creates a beautiful marbled effect as the bars bake, ensuring that each bite has a perfect balance of gooey cheesecake and apple blondie goodness. Step 7: Bake to Perfection Carefully place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-55 minutes if using regular flour, or 55-60 minutes if making gluten-free blondies. Keep an eye out for a golden-brown top; a knife inserted into the center should come out clean when the bars are done. If they brown too quickly, tent with foil. Step 8: Cool and Serve Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool for about 15 minutes at room temperature. This cooling period helps the bars set properly before you drizzle them with the optional caramel topping, enhancing both flavor and presentation. Enjoy these Caramel Apple Blondie Cheesecake Bars warm or at room temperature! How to Store and Freeze Caramel Apple Blondie Fridge: Store the cooled caramel apple blondie cheesecake bars in an airtight container for up to 3 days. They taste even more delicious as the flavors meld! Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the bars in plastic wrap and then in foil before placing them in the freezer. They will stay fresh for up to 2 months. Thawing: To enjoy frozen bars, transfer them to the fridge overnight or leave them at room temperature for an hour before serving. Reheating: If you prefer a warm treat, reheat individual bars in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Drizzle with some extra caramel for a delightful touch! What to Serve with Caramel Apple Blondie Cheesecake Bars Bring autumn’s warmth to your table with these comforting flavors, pairing the lush sweetness of blondie cheesecake bars with delightful companions. Warm Spiced Cider: A steaming cup of spiced apple cider complements the warm, fruity flavors and adds a cozy vibe to your dessert experience. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream brings a luscious contrast to the chewy, caramel-infused texture of the bars. It’s a classic pairing that never disappoints. Candied Pecans: These crunchy, sweet bites enhance the nutty flavor in your blondies while adding an irresistible texture contrast, making every bite satisfying. Pumpkin Pie Spice Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream infused with pumpkin pie spice provides a luscious topping that beautifully complements the apple and caramel flavors. Caramel Drizzle: Elevate your dessert experience by drizzling additional caramel sauce on each slice, intensifying the rich sweetness and making each bite decadent. Coffee or Espresso: The deep, rich flavors of coffee balance the sweetness of your blondies, creating a magical pairing that warms the soul on chilly days. Cheese Board: Create a festive cheese board with tangy goat cheese or sharp cheddar for a savory juxtaposition against your sweet bars, perfect for a balanced dessert spread. Chocolate Sauce: A drizzle of warm chocolate sauce adds a luxurious touch, enhancing the depth of flavors and bringing in a lovely richness. Fresh Berries: Light and refreshing, fresh raspberries or blueberries can cut the sweetness and provide a burst of tartness that balances the dessert beautifully. Make Ahead Options These Caramel Apple Blondie Cheesecake Bars are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the blondie base and cheesecake filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply make the layers, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, just bake the assembled bars as directed. If you have any leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This not only keeps them fresh but allows the flavors to meld, making them even more delicious. Enjoy the convenience of having a delightful dessert ready to go! Expert Tips for Caramel Apple Blondies Quality Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality apples to heighten the flavor. Seasonal apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith work wonders! Baking Check: Always insert a toothpick or knife in the center to check for doneness. If it comes out clean, your caramel apple blondie bars are ready to enjoy! Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on your bars as they bake. Gluten-free versions may need an additional 5-10 minutes, so test frequently towards the end of baking. Chill Before Cutting: Let the bars cool for 15 minutes before cutting. This helps them set properly and makes slicing easier. Storage Secrets: Wrap the cooled bars tightly and refrigerate them. This keeps them fresh for up to 3 days, enhancing their flavor even more! Caramel Apple Blondie Variations Get creative in your kitchen by transforming these delicious caramel apple blondie cheesecake bars into something uniquely yours! Nut-Free: Omit the nuts entirely or substitute with sunflower seeds for a delightful crunch without allergens. The flavor will remain just as satisfying! Apple Variety: Experiment with different types of apples, like tart Granny Smith or sweet Fuji, to cater to your taste preferences. Each choice brings its own delightful flavor twist! Frosting Topping: For an added flavor boost, swirl on a layer of cinnamon frosting or cream cheese frosting over the cheesecake filling. This extra layer of sweetness elevates the dish! Caramel Variations: Instead of store-bought caramel, try homemade caramel sauce for a richer taste that pairs perfectly with the blondies. The depth of flavor is simply irresistible. Spice it Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves in addition to the ground cinnamon for a warm, comforting spice blend that enhances the seasonal flavor profile. Chocolate Chip Bliss: Swap butterscotch chips for chocolate chips to create a decadent flavor contrast. This twist adds a luscious chocolatey depth to every bite. Healthier Alternative: Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar alternative to lower calories while keeping the delicious flavor intact. It’s a subtle change for a healthier treat! Miniature Version: Make tiny versions in a mini muffin tin for bite-sized treats perfect for gatherings. They’re cute, easy to serve, and just as delightful as their larger counterparts! These delicious variations make it easy to customize based on your cravings or dietary needs. Want to explore more? Check out our easy desserts or dive into some handy gluten-free recipes for delightful options! Caramel Apple Blondie Cheesecake Bars Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right apples for this recipe? I recommend using Golden Delicious apples for their sweetness and soft texture. You can also try Honeycrisp for a bit more crunch or Granny Smith for a tart twist! Just make sure they are fresh and firm to ensure the best flavor in your bars. What is the best way to store these bars? For the best freshness, once they have completely cooled, wrap the caramel apple blondie cheesecake bars tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully, making them even more enjoyable! Can I freeze the caramel apple blondie cheesecake bars? Absolutely! To freeze, cut the bars into individual pieces, wrap each one in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just let them thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying! What should I do if the bars are too dry after baking? To avoid dry bars, make sure not to overbake them. Check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean but not overly dry. If they turn out dry, you can serve with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to add moisture! Can I make these gluten-free? Yes, just swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend, like Cup4Cup. Keep an eye on the baking time; gluten-free versions may need an extra 5-10 minutes of baking to achieve the perfect texture. Enjoyably gluten-free and delicious! Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe? Definitely! If you are serving someone with nut allergies, simply omit the chopped nuts or substitute with seeds like sunflower seeds for crunch. Always check the labels on butterscotch chips for gluten-free status and any allergens to keep everyone safe while indulging! Caramel Apple Blondie Bliss: Fall's Sweetest Dessert Treat Indulge in these Caramel Apple Blondies that blend creamy cheesecake, gooey caramel, and fresh apples for a gluten-free dessert that’s perfect for fall gatherings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 55 minutes minsCooling Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins Servings: 12 barsCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? Blondie Base1 cup Sugar You can substitute with a sugar alternative for a lower-calorie option.2 Eggs Lightly beaten before mixing in.1/2 cup Vegetable Oil Melted butter can be used for a richer flavor.1 1/2 cups Flour Opt for a gluten-free blend like Cup4Cup.1/2 teaspoon Salt1 teaspoon Baking Powder Leavening agent for a nice rise.1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon Swap for apple pie spice if desired.2 cups Diced Golden Delicious Apples Peel and dice for the best results.Cheesecake Filling8 ounces Cream Cheese Ensure it’s softened for easy blending.1/2 cup Sugar Granulated sugar works well.1 Egg Use a large egg for the best texture.1 teaspoon Vanilla Enhances flavor profile.Topping1/2 cup Chopped Nuts (Pecans or Walnuts) Feel free to omit for a nut-free alternative.1/2 cup Butterscotch Chips Check for gluten-free labels if necessary.Optional Caramel Topping Drizzle on top for added sweetness. Equipment 9x13 inch baking panMixing bowlWhiskSpatula Method Preparation StepsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9x13 inch baking pan with cooking spray.In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, eggs, and vegetable oil until well combined. Gradually mix in flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon until a dough-like consistency forms.Fold in the diced apples, butterscotch chips, and nuts. Keep about 2 cups of this dough for later.Press the remaining blondie dough evenly into the bottom of the baking pan.In a separate bowl, beat together cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth. Pour over the blondie base.Spoon the reserved blondie dough over the cheesecake layer in dollops.Bake for 50-55 minutes for regular flour or 55-60 minutes for gluten-free, until golden brown.Let cool for 15 minutes before drizzling with caramel topping. Nutrition Serving: 1barCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 3gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 1mg NotesUse fresh, high-quality apples and check for doneness with a toothpick. Store wrapped bars in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
