I’m so excited to share this delicious recipe for Caramel Apple Milky Way Cheesecake Bars with you! These bars are the perfect combination of sweet and creamy with a hint of apple goodness. Imagine rich and creamy cheesecake filling on a crunchy graham cracker crust, topped with a layer of gooey caramel, and finished off with chunks of Milky Way candy bars for that extra indulgence.

It’s like taking a bite of fall heaven in every bite! Trust me, these bars will be a hit at any gathering or simply as a special treat for yourself.

Ingredients Needed for This Recipe

For the Crust:

2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling:

3 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs

2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup chopped Milky Way bars (about 8-10 mini bars)

For the Caramel Apple Topping:

2 large apples, peeled, cored, and finely chopped (preferably a tart variety like Granny Smith)

1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup heavy cream

1/4 cup unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions for Making Caramel Apple Milky Way Cheesecake Bars

Prepare the Crust:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until set. Allow to cool slightly.

Make the Cheesecake Filling:

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.

Fold in the chopped Milky Way bars. Pour the filling over the prepared crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set but slightly jiggly in the center. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until firm.

Prepare the Caramel Apple Topping:

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine chopped apples, lemon juice, and sugar. Cook until apples are just softened, about 5-7 minutes. Remove apples from the pan and set aside.
In the same pan, add heavy cream, butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture becomes a thick caramel, about 10 minutes.

Return the apples to the pan with the caramel, stir well to combine, and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Allow to cool slightly before spreading over the cooled cheesecake layer.

Assemble and Serve:

Spread the caramel apple topping evenly over the chilled cheesecake layer. Refrigerate the bars until the topping is set, about 1 hour.
Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the bars out of the pan and cut into squares. Serve chilled.

Tips for Perfecting the Recipe

Quality Ingredients: Start with high-quality ingredients. The taste of your cheesecake bars will largely depend on the quality of the cream cheese, chocolate bars, and apples you use. Opt for full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture, and choose fresh, tart apples for the topping to balance the sweetness.

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients, especially the cream cheese and eggs, are at room temperature before you start. This helps to achieve a smooth, lump-free cheesecake batter.

Graham Cracker Crust Tips: For a crust that holds together well, make sure the graham cracker crumbs are finely ground. The butter should be melted and mixed thoroughly with the crumbs and sugar to ensure even binding.

Baking the Cheesecake: Avoid overbaking the cheesecake layer. Cheesecake is done when the edges are set, but the center still jiggles slightly. Overbaking can lead to cracking and a dry texture.

Chilling Time: Don’t rush the chilling process. The cheesecake needs time to set properly, which enhances its flavor and texture. A minimum of 4 hours in the refrigerator is recommended, though overnight is best.

Making the Caramel: Keep a close eye on the caramel as it cooks; it can go from perfect to burnt in a matter of seconds. Stirring constantly and keeping the heat at medium ensures a smooth caramel that’s not too dark.

Slicing the Bars: For clean cuts, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it off between each slice. This method cuts through the layers neatly and ensures each bar looks as good as it tastes.

Serving Suggestions

Garnish Options: Elevate the presentation of your cheesecake bars with a sprinkle of sea salt over the caramel layer, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. Fresh apple slices or a sprinkle of chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts) can also add texture and flavor.

Serve Chilled: These cheesecake bars are best served chilled. Remove them from the refrigerator just a few minutes before serving to let them slightly come to room temperature, enhancing their flavors and making the caramel topping the perfect consistency.

Pairing with Beverages: Complement your dessert with a beverage that contrasts its sweetness. A cup of strong black coffee, a glass of milk, or a dessert wine such as a Riesling or a sparkling Moscato can balance the richness of the cheesecake bars.

Storage Tips

Refrigeration: Store leftover cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cold temperature keeps the cheesecake firm and the caramel topping from becoming too runny.

Freezing for Longevity: For longer storage, freeze the bars on a baking sheet until solid, then wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. Store them in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Avoiding Sogginess: To prevent the crust from becoming soggy, place a sheet of parchment paper or wax paper between the bars and the lid of the container when storing. This helps absorb any excess moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of chocolate bar? Yes, you can substitute Milky Way bars with any chocolate bar of your choice. Snickers, Twix, or even plain milk chocolate bars can work well, depending on your preference for additional textures or flavors.

What if my caramel doesn’t thicken? If your caramel is too runny, continue cooking it over low heat, stirring constantly until it reaches the desired thickness. Be patient, as it can take a while for caramel to reduce and thicken.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Absolutely. Simply use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust and ensure that the chocolate bars you use are gluten-free as well.

How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake? Avoid overmixing the batter once you’ve added the eggs, as this can incorporate too much air and lead to cracks. Additionally, letting the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven with the door slightly open can help minimize cracking.

Can I make these bars in advance? Yes, these cheesecake bars are a great make-ahead dessert. Prepare them up to two days in advance and keep them refrigerated until ready to serve. The flavors meld and intensify over time, making them even more delicious.

By following these tips and suggestions, you’ll be well on your way to creating irresistible Caramel Apple Milky Way Cheesecake Bars that are sure to impress. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, this recipe is a delightful challenge with a rewarding, delicious outcome. Enjoy the process and the dessert!