Hey there, foodies! Today, I’m absolutely thrilled to share one of my all-time favorite afternoon treats that never fails to make my family’s eyes light up. Let me tell you about my irresistible Caramel Apple Cream Cheese Bars – they’re literally heaven in every bite!
Listen, we all need that perfect pick-me-up during those lazy afternoon slumps, right? Trust me, these bars are your answer. They’re like if an apple pie and a cheesecake had a baby, but way easier to make (and honestly, maybe even more delicious – don’t @ me, pie lovers! 😉).
Here’s what you’ll need:
For the crust:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 3/4 cup butter, softened
– Pinch of salt
For the filling:
– 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 2 eggs
– 3 medium apples, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Y’all, before we continue, if you’re loving this recipe already, make sure to follow me on Newsbreak for daily doses of deliciousness! I share new recipes every day that’ll make your taste buds dance! 💃
Now, let’s get cooking:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (because nobody likes a cold oven, duh!).
1. Mix your flour, brown sugar, and that pinch of salt. Cut in the butter until it’s all crumbly – think wet sand texture. Press this mixture into a 13×9 inch baking pan. Pop it in the oven for 15 minutes until it’s lightly golden.
1. While that’s baking, grab your mixer (and maybe dance a little – cooking should be fun!). Beat those cream cheese blocks until they’re super smooth. Add sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Mix until it’s silky and gorgeous.
1. Toss your diced apples with cinnamon in a separate bowl. I mean, really get them coated – don’t be shy with that cinnamon, honey!
1. Once your crust is done, pour that cream cheese mixture over it. Spread those cinnamon-coated apples evenly on top.
1. Here’s where the magic happens – drizzle that caramel sauce all over. Go crazy with it! Make it rain caramel! 🌧️
1. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the center is almost set. A little jiggle is fine – it’ll set up as it cools.
Let it cool completely before cutting into squares. I know it’s tempting to dig in right away (believe me, I’ve burned my tongue more times than I care to admit), but patience is key here!
These bars are perfect for everything from afternoon coffee dates to family gatherings. They’re that perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, and caramel-y goodness that’ll have everyone begging for the recipe.
Okay, sweeties, if you’ve made it this far and are drooling all over your screen (no judgment here!), don’t forget to follow me on Newsbreak for more mouth-watering recipes like this one! Drop a comment below and let me know if you tried these bars – I absolutely LOVE hearing from you! Did you add your own twist? Did your family fight over the last piece? Tell me everything!
Until next time, keep cooking and stay fabulous! 💕👩🍳
