Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake Bars

I’ve been on a bit of an apples with caramel kick lately. That combined with my craving for cheesecake resulted in this yummy treat! you’ll find a spiced graham cracker crust, a layer of cheesecake, a layer of apple pie filling, and all topped with a drizzle of caramel.

What you’ll need for the crust:
– 6 Tablespoons melted butter (3 ounces)
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (4 ounces)
– 1/2 teaspoon apple pie spice
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla

What you’ll need for the cheesecake:
– 2 apples, peeled and diced
– 2 Tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon apple pie spice
– 1 block cream cheese, room temp (8 ounces)
– 1/3 cup sugar (67 grams)
– 1 egg
– 1 Tablespoon cornstarch (10 grams)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla

What you’ll need for the topping:
– caramel, as needed

What you’ll do:
– Preheat your oven to 350F and line a square baking dish with parchment so that both sides are covered.
– Combine the ingredients for the crust in a small dish. Evenly sprinkle into the lined pan and use your hands to press the crumbs down so that they are compact. Bake for 15 minutes.
– While the crust is baking, combine your apples, brown sugar, and apple pie spice in a small bowl and set aside.
– Prepare your filling by first beating the cream cheese on high for 1 minute. Scrape down the sides of the bowl and add in the sugar. Beat for another minute.
– Add in eggs 1 at a time until fully incorporated. Scrape down the sides of the bowl and beat for another minute.
– Add in the cornstarch and vanilla, beating on slow until fully combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl and beat for 1 minute.
– Pour the batter on top of the baked crust. Top with your apples so that they are evenly spread over the batter.
– Bake your cheesecake for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
– Allow to cool completely before cutting into 16 squares, drizzle with caramel and ENJOY!