If you have a sweet tooth that craves the perfect combination of creamy, rich cheesecake with a luscious, buttery caramel touch, then this Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe is about to become your new favorite indulgence. These bars deliver the classic smoothness of cheesecake with a gorgeously caramel-infused twist, all in a convenient handheld form that makes sharing (or sneaking a second piece) delightfully easy. Whether it’s for a casual family get-together, a holiday celebration, or just because you deserve a treat, these caramel cheesecake bars bring irresistible comfort and elegance to your dessert table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
It’s amazing how just a handful of simple ingredients come together to create such a memorable dessert. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to build the perfect base, creamy filling, and that dreamy caramel flavor that makes these bars shine.
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs: Provides a buttery, crunchy foundation with just the right amount of sweetness.
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted: Binds the crust together while adding richness and a golden color.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Sweetens and balances the crust for that classic graham cracker taste.
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened: Delivers the creamy core of these bars, giving them their signature tangy smoothness.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake filling to perfection without overpowering the caramel notes.
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature: Adds structure and silkiness to the cheesecake.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, inviting fragrance.
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce, plus more for drizzling: Gives these bars their luscious caramel flavor and irresistible gooeyness.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and brings out the depth of flavors.
- Optional flaky sea salt for topping: Adds a sophisticated, crunchy contrast that highlights the caramel’s buttery notes.
How to Make Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F and lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure an easy release later. Combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 2 tablespoons of sugar in a medium bowl, mixing until the crumbs are completely moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan, creating an even layer. This forms the crunchy base that perfectly complements the creamy cheesecake topping. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly to set.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
While the crust cools, beat the softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup sugar in a large bowl until the mixture is smooth and creamy—no lumps, please! Next, add the eggs one at a time, beating gently and just until each egg is incorporated; this prevents air bubbles and ensures a silky texture. Stir in the vanilla extract, caramel sauce, and salt to marry all those flavors together into a luscious batter. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the pre-baked crust, spreading it into a nice even layer for uniform bars.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Bake the bars for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the center is just set but still slightly jiggly—this guarantees that melt-in-your-mouth creaminess. Once done, turn off the oven and leave the pan inside with the door slightly open for 30 minutes to cool gradually; this prevents cracking. After cooling slowly, remove the bars and let them reach room temperature. Finally, refrigerate for at least 3 hours to fully chill and firm up before slicing.
Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches
Once your bars are chilled and ready, drizzle more caramel sauce generously across the top, and if you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some flaky sea salt. This contrast of sweet and salty is what elevates this Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe from delicious to unforgettable.
How to Serve Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Give your bars that extra wow-factor by topping them with a few finishing touches like freshly whipped cream, chopped nuts for crunch, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder. These simple garnishes add texture and flair, making each bite more exciting and picture-perfect.
Side Dishes
Pair these caramel cheesecake bars with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of fresh berries to balance the richness. A hot cup of coffee or a smooth latte also complements the sweet and creamy flavors beautifully, making every bite feel like a cozy treat.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve your bars on a rustic wooden board with ramekins of extra caramel sauce for dipping. Or arrange them in colorful mini cupcake liners to create delightful single-serving desserts. These presentation ideas bring charm and make your Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe even more inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep leftover caramel cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This ensures they stay moist and maintain their rich flavor, so you can enjoy them fresh even several days after baking.
Freezing
These bars freeze beautifully! Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen caramel cheesecake bars can be stored for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheating
Since these bars are best served chilled, reheat only if desired very briefly in the microwave—about 10 to 15 seconds per piece to gently warm the caramel without melting the cheesecake. This also softens the caramel sauce nicely.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce for this recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought caramel sauce works wonderfully and saves time, though homemade caramel adds a personal touch. Either way, the bars turn out decadent.
What type of cream cheese is best?
Use full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature. The higher fat content ensures the creamy texture and rich flavor that defines these bars.
How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake bars?
Mix the batter gently without overbeating and cool the bars gradually in the oven with the door slightly open, as described. This controlled cooling prevents cracking and keeps your bars looking smooth.
Can I substitute the graham cracker crust with something else?
Yes, you can swap graham cracker crumbs for digestive biscuits, crushed vanilla wafers, or even ginger snaps for a spicier edge. Just adjust the sugar and butter amounts slightly to maintain the crust’s texture.
How long should I chill the bars before serving?
Chill the bars for at least 3 hours, but overnight is best for the flavors to meld and the texture to set perfectly so they slice nicely and taste amazing.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe. It’s a delightful mix of familiar comfort and indulgent sophistication, perfect for sharing or savoring solo. I hope you have as much fun making and eating these as I do—grab your ingredients, and let’s make some caramel magic!
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Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these luscious Caramel Cheesecake Bars featuring a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a creamy caramel-infused cheesecake layer. Perfectly baked until just set and finished with a drizzle of caramel sauce and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, these bars offer a rich, indulgent dessert that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce, plus more for drizzling
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Topping (Optional)
- Flaky sea salt for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, mixing until evenly combined. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Bake the crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly while preparing the cheesecake filling.
- Make the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing each just until incorporated. Then mix in the vanilla extract, 1/2 cup caramel sauce, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until fully combined.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the cheesecake batter evenly over the slightly cooled crust and spread it out gently. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the center is just set and slightly jiggly but not liquid.
- Cool the cheesecake: Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the oven door slightly ajar for 30 minutes to cool gradually. Then remove from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature.
- Chill: Refrigerate the cheesecake bars for at least 3 hours or until fully chilled and set.
- Serve: Before slicing, drizzle the bars with additional caramel sauce and sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired. For clean slices, wipe the knife between each cut and serve chilled.
Notes
- For easier, cleaner slicing, wipe the knife clean between cuts.
- Feel free to use homemade or store-bought caramel sauce depending on your preference and convenience.
- These cheesecake bars can be prepared a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator for best flavor and texture.
