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- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs - 1/4 cup granulated sugar - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted - 16 ounces cream cheese, softened - 3/4 cup granulated sugar - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 2 large eggs - 1/2 cup sour cream - 2 cups apples, peeled and diced - 1 tablespoon lemon juice - 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon - 1/4 cup brown sugar - 1/2 cup rolled oats - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour - 1/2 cup brown sugar - 1/4 teaspoon salt - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted - 1/2 cup caramel sauce Each ingredient plays a key role in making these cheesecake squares a delight. The graham cracker crumbs form a crunchy base. Butter adds richness, while sugar gives sweetness. In the cheesecake filling, cream cheese is the star. It creates a smooth and creamy texture. Sugar balances the tanginess. Vanilla adds warmth, and eggs help set the filling. Sour cream makes it rich and luscious. For the apple filling, I love using Granny Smith apples. They stay firm and add tartness. Lemon juice brightens the flavor. Cinnamon and brown sugar add warmth and sweetness. The crumble topping is the finishing touch. Rolled oats give it a hearty crunch. Flour and brown sugar add sweetness, while a pinch of salt enhances all the flavors. The melted butter brings it together into a crumbly mixture. Finally, the caramel sauce adds a sweet drizzle. It ties all the elements together for a delicious treat. 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for baking. 2. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter. 3. Stir until everything mixes well. 4. Press the mixture into the bottom of a lined 9x9-inch baking pan. Make sure it is even. 1. In a large bowl, beat 16 ounces of softened cream cheese until it is smooth. 2. Gradually add 3/4 cup of granulated sugar and continue beating until fluffy. 3. Mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. 4. Add 2 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. 5. Fold in 1/2 cup of sour cream until well combined. 1. In another bowl, toss 2 cups of peeled and diced apples with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/4 cup of brown sugar. 2. Ensure the apples are well coated. This adds great flavor. 1. In a separate bowl, mix 1/2 cup of rolled oats, 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. 2. Pour in 1/4 cup of melted butter and stir until the mixture is crumbly. 1. Pour half of the cheesecake filling over the crust in the baking pan. 2. Spread it evenly. 3. Add the apple filling on top. 4. Layer the remaining cheesecake filling over the apples. 5. Finally, sprinkle the crumble topping on top. 1. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes. 2. The cheesecake should be set and the edges lightly golden. 3. The center may jiggle a bit, but it will firm as it cools. 4. Let the cheesecake cool to room temperature. 5. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set completely. 6. Cut into squares and drizzle each with caramel sauce before serving. How to achieve smooth cheesecake filling To get a smooth cheesecake filling, make sure your cream cheese is soft. Leave it at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Beat the cream cheese well before adding sugar. Mix until fluffy, then add eggs one at a time. This method helps avoid lumps for a creamy texture. Ensuring the crust stays firm A firm crust makes a big difference. After mixing the crust ingredients, press them firmly into the pan. Use the bottom of a glass to pack it down evenly. Baking it for a few minutes helps it set up nicely. Preventing cracks in the cheesecake To prevent cracks, avoid overmixing after adding eggs. Overmixing adds air, which can lead to cracks. Also, bake at a lower temperature. This allows the cheesecake to cook evenly, reducing the chance of cracks on top. How to check for doneness Check for doneness by gently shaking the pan. The cheesecake should be set around the edges but slightly jiggly in the center. It will firm up as it cools. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out mostly clean but not dry. Pairing with additional toppings Top each square with extra caramel sauce for added sweetness. You can also add whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon. Fresh apple slices on top add a nice crunch and flavor. Creative serving ideas Serve these squares warm for a cozy treat. You can also chill them for a refreshing dessert. Cut them into fun shapes for parties or special occasions. {{image_2}} For those needing gluten-free options, use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs for the crust. You can also swap the flour in the crumble topping with almond flour or oat flour. These changes keep the taste while making it safe for gluten-sensitive folks. If you’re looking for vegan alternatives, replace cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese. Use flaxseed meal mixed with water instead of eggs. For the sour cream, try coconut yogurt or vegan sour cream. You'll still get a creamy filling without the dairy. Want to mix it up? Add nuts or dried fruits to your filling. Walnuts, pecans, or raisins can add a nice crunch or chewiness. Just make sure to chop them small so they blend well. Using different types of apples also changes the flavor. Granny Smith gives a tart taste, while Honeycrisp offers sweetness. Try using a mix for a balanced flavor profile. When holidays roll around, you can modify this recipe for festive cheer. Pumpkin spice can be added to the cheesecake filling for a warm, seasonal twist. Just blend in a teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice for that cozy feel. Incorporating seasonal fruits can also make this dessert shine. Use fresh cranberries in fall or ripe strawberries in summer. Each fruit adds a new layer of taste and keeps the recipe fresh year-round. To store leftovers, let your squares cool completely. Then, cut them into pieces. Place the squares in an airtight container. You can also use plastic wrap to cover them tightly. This keeps them fresh and prevents drying out. For best results, store them in the fridge. If you want to freeze caramel apple crumble cheesecake squares, wrap them well. Use plastic wrap and then foil for extra protection. This prevents freezer burn. To thaw, move them to the fridge overnight. If you need to reheat, do so gently in the oven. Set it to a low temperature to warm them without cooking further. These delicious squares can last about five days in the fridge. Check for any signs of spoilage, like an off smell or mold. If they look or smell strange, it’s best to toss them. Enjoy the best flavors by eating them sooner rather than later! Granny Smith apples work best. They add a nice tartness that balances the sweet cheesecake. You can also try Honeycrisp apples for a sweeter flavor. Just pick apples that hold their shape when baked. Yes, you can use a store-bought crust. It saves time and effort. Just choose a graham cracker crust for the best flavor. Make sure it fits your baking pan. You can make these squares a day before. Just follow the recipe and let them cool. Refrigerate them overnight. This helps the flavors meld and makes cutting easier. You can use Neufchâtel cheese as a lighter option. It has less fat but still tastes great. If you're looking for dairy-free, try a cream cheese alternative made from nuts. Yes, it is important to chill the squares. Refrigerating helps them set properly. It also enhances the flavors. Let them chill for at least four hours or overnight for the best results. This recipe for caramel apple crumble cheesecake squares combines sweet crust, creamy filling, and spiced apples. You learned to prepare each layer and assemble your dessert. Using the tips and variations can help you create a unique version that suits your taste or dietary needs. Storing leftovers properly ensures you enjoy each bite later. I hope you find this recipe easy and fun. Now, gather your ingredients and enjoy baking!

Caramel Apple Crumble Cheesecake Squares

Indulge in the ultimate dessert with these Caramel Apple Crumble Cheesecake Squares! This delicious recipe combines a creamy cheesecake filling, sweet apple chunks, and a crunchy crumble topping, all drizzled with rich caramel. Perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat at home, these squares are sure to impress everyone. Click to explore the full recipe and bring this delightful dessert to your kitchen today!
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Ingredients
  

For the Crust:

1 cup graham cracker crumbs

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

16 ounces cream cheese, softened

3/4 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 large eggs

1/2 cup sour cream

For the Apple Filling:

2 cups apples, peeled and diced (Granny Smith apples work well)

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1/4 cup brown sugar

For the Crumble Topping:

1/2 cup rolled oats

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup brown sugar

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

For Drizzling:

1/2 cup caramel sauce

Instructions
 

Prepare the Crust:

    Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a lined 9x9-inch baking pan to form an even layer.

      Make the Cheesecake Filling:

        In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the sugar and continue to beat until fluffy. Mix in the vanilla extract, then one at a time, add the eggs, mixing well after each addition. Finally, fold in the sour cream until the mixture is well combined.

          Prepare the Apple Filling:

            In another bowl, toss the diced apples with lemon juice, cinnamon, and brown sugar until well coated. Set aside.

              Create the Crumble Topping:

                In a separate bowl, mix oats, flour, brown sugar, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture is crumbly.

                  Assemble the Squares:

                    Pour half of the cheesecake filling over the crust in the baking pan, spreading evenly. Add the apple filling on top and layer the remaining cheesecake filling over the apples. Finally, sprinkle the crumble topping on the top.

                      Bake:

                        Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the cheesecake is set and the edges are lightly golden. The center may still be a bit jiggly but will firm up as it cools.

                          Cool and Serve:

                            Allow the cheesecake to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set completely. Once chilled, cut into squares and drizzle each square with caramel sauce before serving.

                              Prep Time: 30 mins | Total Time: 5 hours | Servings: 16 squares