Desserts
Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
Description
Caramel apple cheesecake bars combine the best of so many worlds. They start with a gently-spiced cookie crust bursting with the flavors of apple pie. Layer onto that a rich, creamy cheesecake, then top it all off with a nutty, crunchy crumble and drizzle with smooth caramel sauce. The result is a symphony of sweetness that’s right at home in a fall gathering, but looks and tastes amazing any time of year.
Ingredients:
- 1 pouch (16.6 oz) Betty Crocker™ Limited Edition Caramel Apple Cookie Mix
- 1 1/2 teaspoons apple pie spice
- 10 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon Gold Medal™ All Purpose Flour
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup toasted, chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- Caramel sauce, for serving
Directions:
- Heat the oven to 350° F. Line the bottom and sides of an 8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, combine the cookie mix, apple pie spice, and diced butter. Using your fingers, toss to combine and pinch the butter and flour between your fingers until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. Set aside 1 cup of dough in the refrigerator.
- Press the remaining dough into the bottom of the pan to create an even crust. Bake for 15 minutes or until just set and golden brown on the edges.
- Meanwhile, in a large bowl, beat together the cream cheese, sugar, egg, flour, lemon juice, vanilla, and salt until smooth. Pour mixture over crust.
- In a small bowl, stir together the reserved 1 cup dough, pecans, and oats. Sprinkle the crumble over the cheesecake.
- Bake 25 to 30 minutes, or until set. Let cool to room temperature. Transfer to the refrigerator, and chill for 1 hour. Cut and drizzle with caramel sauce before serving.
