Description
Indulge in these decadent, multi-layered bars that combine a buttery graham cracker crust with a silky cream cheese filling, spiced orchard apples, and a crisp, oaty streusel topping. Drizzled with rich caramel, these bars offer a sophisticated yet cozy flavor profile that is perfect for any occasion. They are remarkably easy to prepare and even better when made ahead, making them the ultimate crowd-pleasing dessert for holidays, potlucks, or quiet autumn evenings.
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
16 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 large Granny Smith apples, peeled and thinly sliced
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1/4 cup caramel sauce
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and 1/2 cup melted butter; press into the bottom of the pan and bake for 8 minutes.
In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese, 1/2 cup sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth; spread over the partially baked crust.
Toss sliced apples with cinnamon and layer them evenly over the cream cheese mixture.
In a separate bowl, mix flour, oats, and brown sugar; cut in cold butter until crumbly, then sprinkle over the apples.
Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the edges are golden and the center is set.
Allow to cool completely, then drizzle with caramel sauce before slicing into squares.
Notes
For best results, chill the bars in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving to ensure clean, sharp slices. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can substitute Granny Smith apples with Honeycrisp for a sweeter flavor profile.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 285
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg