Rich, creamy cheesecake meets sweet, gooey caramel in these irresistible bars that are surprisingly simple to make. I stumbled upon this recipe during a busy holiday season when I needed something quick yet impressive, and it’s been a go-to ever since. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth, tangy filling, they’re perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without spending hours in the kitchen. Curious how to make them? Let’s get started.
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
Indulge in the perfect blend of creamy and sweet with these irresistible caramel cheesecake bars. This recipe combines a rich, velvety cheesecake layer with a luscious caramel drizzle, all atop a buttery crust. Effortless to make, these bars bring gourmet dessert to your kitchen with minimal steps. Perfect for any occasion, they’re a crowd-pleaser for parties, potlucks, or a simple treat at home. Make-ahead friendly, these bars can be prepared in advance, saving time without compromising on flavor.
Recipe
These Caramel Cheesecake Bars are a decadent dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet, buttery flavor of caramel. Perfect for any occasion, they are easy to make and sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- ¼ cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- In another bowl, beat the cream cheese and ½ cup sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust and spread evenly.
- Drizzle caramel sauce over the top and use a knife to swirl it into the cream cheese layer. Sprinkle with chopped pecans if desired.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the center is set. Let cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into bars.
Notes:
- For a firmer texture, refrigerate overnight.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes (plus chilling)
Serving: 12 bars
Calories: Approximately 280 per bar
Cuisine: American
Nutrition
Caramel cheesecake bars are a decadent treat that combines rich flavors with a creamy texture. While indulgent, it’s helpful to understand their nutritional profile.
- Calories: Approximately 300 per serving
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugars: 22g
- Protein: 5g
What To Serve With It
When I’m serving caramel cheesecake bars, I like to balance their sweetness with something light or invigorating, so they don’t feel too heavy. Fresh fruit toppings, like sliced strawberries or juicy raspberries, add a revitalizing touch. For chocolate pairings, I’ll often drizzle dark chocolate sauce or serve them with chocolate-dipped orange slices. A cup of coffee or mint tea also complements the flavors perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese for This Recipe?
I’ve read that 70% of bakers experiment with cream cheese alternatives for unique flavor variations. I’d try mascarpone or ricotta for a lighter texture, or goat cheese for tanginess, but I’d adjust sweetness to balance the flavors.
How Do I Prevent the Caramel From Crystallizing?
I’ll prevent caramel from crystallizing by using wet caramel types, as they’re less prone to it. I’ll also use a candy thermometer to guarantee it reaches the right temperature—around 240°F—without overheating or stirring too much.
Can I Freeze These Cheesecake Bars for Later?
I’ve learned that 90% of cheesecake lovers freeze their desserts for later. To keep them fresh, I follow freezing tips like wrapping them tightly in plastic and foil. Storage guidelines suggest thawing in the fridge overnight.
What’S the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
I’ll keep my leftovers fresh by storing them in an airtight container. For storing tips, I’ll make sure to refrigerate them promptly. And for leftover uses, I’ll enjoy them chilled or bring them to room temperature first.
Can I Substitute the Graham Crackers for a Different Base?
Certainly, I can swap grahams for a cookie base or craft a nut crust. Crisp cookies create a classic contrast, while nuts bring a nice, nutty nuance. Both options work wonders, so I’ll pick my preference.
