Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe

If you are on the hunt for a dessert that hits all the right notes—creamy, rich, buttery, and sweet—look no further than this Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe. These bars combine a buttery graham cracker crust with a smooth cheesecake filling, crowned by a luscious, homemade caramel topping that is guaranteed to make your taste buds dance. Perfect for sharing with friends or indulging in a cozy night treat, this recipe delivers an elegant dessert experience with cozy, comforting flavors. Trust me, once you try these Caramel Cheesecake Bars, they’ll quickly become a staple in your dessert rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe is thoughtfully chosen to contribute to a perfect balance of texture and flavor. From the crunchy, buttery crust to the silky filling and the sweet, golden caramel, these simple but essential components come together beautifully to create a dessert worth savoring.

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs: Provides a crisp, buttery base that contrasts deliciously with the creamy cheesecake.
• 1/4 cup sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to the crust for perfect balance.
• 1/2 cup butter, melted: Binds the crumbs together while adding richness to the crust.
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: The star of the cheesecake filling, offering that unmistakably creamy texture.
• 1 1/2 cups sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake filling, giving that perfect kiss of indulgence.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and depth to the entire dessert.
• 4 large eggs: Create structure for the cheesecake filling, ensuring it sets just right.
• 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds moisture and a subtle tang to keep the filling luxuriously smooth.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar: Essential for that deep, caramelized flavor in the topping.
• 6 tablespoons butter: Melts into the caramel sauce, providing richness and silkiness.
• 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk: Gives the caramel its signature creamy sweetness and thickness.
• 2 tablespoons corn syrup: Helps prevent crystallization, keeping the caramel perfectly smooth.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Elevates the caramel with an inviting aromatic note.

How to Make Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the dish to create an even layer. This simple step lays the foundation for your dessert and ensures that delicious crunch that makes every bite special.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

Next, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract in a large bowl until silky smooth. This is where the magic happens—getting that filling creamy without lumps. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to incorporate air and prevent cracking. Fold in the sour cream gently to keep the texture luscious. Pour this creamy filling over the prepared crust, smoothing it out evenly with a spatula for a perfect bake.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

Bake the cheesecake for about 50 minutes. When it’s done, turn off the oven and crack the door open, allowing the cheesecake to cool inside for 15 minutes. This gradual cooling step helps reduce cracking on your cheesecake surface. Afterward, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely, about one hour. Patience here will reward you with a perfectly set bar.

Step 4: Prepare the Caramel Topping

For the caramel topping, melt the butter and brown sugar in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until combined. Stir in sweetened condensed milk, corn syrup, and vanilla extract. Bring the mixture to a boil, continuing to stir until it reaches 225°F (or a soft-ball stage if you have a candy thermometer). Let the caramel cool slightly so it thickens but still pours easily. This silky sauce will be the crowning glory of your bars.

Step 5: Top with Caramel and Set

Pour the slightly cooled caramel evenly over the cooled cheesecake layer. Use a spatula to spread it gently and give a smooth topping. Let the caramel set completely at room temperature or in the fridge before cutting the dessert into squares. This layering ensures each bite boasts creamy cheesecake underneath a decadent caramel cap.

How to Serve Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your presentation, consider garnishing each bar with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, chopped toasted pecans, or a light dusting of cocoa powder. These touches add a delightful textural contrast and enhance the complex sweetness of the caramel, turning your bars into a gourmet treat.

Side Dishes

Caramel Cheesecake Bars pair wonderfully with fresh berries or a cool scoop of vanilla ice cream to complement the richness. Serving alongside a cup of robust coffee or a lightly sweetened tea can also balance the sweetness and round out the experience perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive occasion, try drizzling extra caramel or chocolate sauce over the bars right before serving and add edible gold leaf for a truly luxe look. Alternatively, layer these bars in a trifle dish with whipped cream and crushed graham crackers for a stunning visual twist that tastes as great as it looks.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Caramel Cheesecake Bars keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Storing them chilled helps maintain the creamy texture and prevents the caramel from becoming too sticky or runny.

Freezing

If you want to prepare these bars in advance, they freeze wonderfully. Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. They will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge for an easy, make-ahead dessert that’s ready when you are.

Reheating

For the best experience, serve Caramel Cheesecake Bars chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer them slightly warm, microwave a single bar for 10-15 seconds to soften the caramel just enough without melting the cheesecake filling.

FAQs

Can I use a different crust instead of graham cracker crumbs?

Absolutely! While graham cracker crust is classic and adds a lovely flavor, you can substitute with crushed digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even gingersnap crumbs for a spicy twist. Just be sure to adjust the sugar and butter amounts to keep the right texture.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! To make this Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or cookie crumbs for the crust. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Why does the cheesecake crack sometimes?

Cracks often form when the cheesecake cools too quickly or is overbaked. To avoid this, follow the tip to cool the cheesecake gradually with the oven door slightly open, which helps the bars set without sudden temperature changes that cause cracks.

Can I prepare the caramel topping ahead of time?

You sure can! The caramel topping can be made up to two days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just warm it gently until pourable before spreading it over the cheesecake layer.

What’s the best way to cut these bars cleanly?

Use a sharp knife warmed with hot water and wiped dry before slicing. This helps cut through the caramel smoothly, preventing sticking or dragging, so you get nice, clean squares to serve.

Final Thoughts

Now that you have this wonderful Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe at your fingertips, I encourage you to give it a try and share it with those you love. It’s a fantastic dessert that brings together texture and flavor in perfect harmony, sure to impress even the toughest dessert critics. Once you taste these bars, you’ll know this recipe is one to treasure — definitely a sweet way to brighten any day!

Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe

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• Author: admin
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes plus cooling time
• Yield: 24 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in these luscious Caramel Cheesecake Bars featuring a crunchy graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and a rich homemade caramel topping. Perfect for parties or a decadent dessert treat.

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Ingredients

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Crust

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

Cheesecake Filling

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 1/2 cups sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup sour cream

Caramel Topping

• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 6 tablespoons butter
• 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
• 2 tablespoons corn syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then blend in the sour cream until fully incorporated. Pour this cheesecake filling over the prepared crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
3. Bake the Cheesecake Bars: Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 50 minutes. Once done, turn off the oven, crack open the oven door and let the cheesecake bars cool inside for 15 minutes. Remove from oven and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely for about 1 hour.
4. Prepare the Caramel Topping: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter with the brown sugar over medium heat. Stir in the sweetened condensed milk, corn syrup, and vanilla extract. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly, and continue boiling until the mixture reaches 225°F (107°C) on a candy thermometer. Remove from heat and allow the caramel to cool slightly.
5. Top with Caramel: Pour the slightly cooled caramel over the fully cooled cheesecake bars, spreading it evenly across the surface. Allow the caramel topping to set before cutting into squares and serving.

Notes

• Make sure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
• Use a candy thermometer for the caramel to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for thick consistency.
• Allow the bars to cool completely before adding the caramel for best results.
• Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Serve chilled or at room temperature depending on preference.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American