Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe – Creamy, Decadent, and Easy to Make
Indulge in the ultimate dessert with these Caramel Cheesecake Bars! Featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, a velvety cheesecake filling, and a luscious caramel topping, these bars are perfect for any occasion. Simple to prepare and impossible to resist, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Prep & cook Time: 4 hours 50 minutes | Calories: Approximately 280 kcal per bar
Ingredients
For the Crust:
1 ½ cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs
6 tbsp (85g) unsalted butter, melted
2 tbsp (25g) granulated sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling:
16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
¼ cup (60ml) sour cream
For the Caramel Topping:
½ cup (120ml) store-bought or homemade caramel sauce
Optional: Sea salt flakes for garnish
Directions
Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until evenly combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.
Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until fully incorporated.
Assemble and Bake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle.
Cool and Chill: Let the cheesecake cool completely in the pan, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
Add Caramel Topping: Once chilled, drizzle the caramel sauce over the top of the cheesecake. For an extra touch, sprinkle with sea salt flakes.
Slice and Serve: Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the cheesecake out of the pan. Cut into bars and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of crust?
Yes, you can use digestive biscuits, Oreo crumbs, or even a shortbread crust for a different flavor.2. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the fridge until ready to serve.3. Can I freeze caramel cheesecake bars?
Yes, freeze the bars (without the caramel topping) in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and add caramel before serving.4. Can I use homemade caramel sauce?
Definitely! Homemade caramel sauce adds a rich, personal touch, but store-bought works just as well for convenience.5. How do I prevent cracks in the cheesecake?
Avoid overmixing the batter and don’t overbake. The center should still have a slight jiggle when you take it out of the oven.
Tools You'll Need
8×8-inch baking pan
Parchment paper
Mixing bowls (medium and large)
Electric mixer or stand mixer
Whisk
Spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Tips
Use full-fat cream cheese and sour cream for the creamiest texture.
Let all ingredients come to room temperature before mixing to ensure a smooth batter.
For clean slices, wipe your knife with a warm, damp cloth between cuts.
Add a sprinkle of sea salt to balance the sweetness of the caramel.
Allergy Information
Contains: Wheat, Dairy, Eggs
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free graham crackers or cookies for the crust.
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute cream cheese and sour cream with dairy-free alternatives, and use vegan butter for the crust.
Conclusion
These Caramel Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat that combines the richness of cheesecake with the sweetness of caramel. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or a special dessert at home, they’re sure to impress everyone who tries them. With their creamy texture and irresistible flavor, these bars are a must-try for any dessert lover. Don’t forget to share your results and enjoy the compliments that are sure to come your way. Happy baking!
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