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Decadent Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe

3.9 from 264 reviews

  • Author: admin
  • Total Time: 5 hours (including chilling time)
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x

Description

These Decadent Caramel Cheesecake Bars combine a buttery graham cracker crust with a smooth, creamy cheesecake layer topped with luscious caramel sauce. Finished with an optional sprinkle of sea salt, these bars offer the perfect balance of sweet and salty indulgence. Ideal for dessert lovers looking for an easy yet impressive treat that can be made ahead and enjoyed chilled.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 3 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling

  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Topping

  • ½ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • Sea salt (optional, for salted caramel)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing an overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
  2. Mix crust ingredients: In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until the mixture is evenly combined and crumbly.
  3. Bake crust: Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes to set. Remove and let cool completely.
  4. Make cheesecake filling: Using a mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
  5. Add eggs and vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition to keep the mixture smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
  6. Assemble cheesecake layer: Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the cooled crust, ensuring a smooth surface.
  7. Bake cheesecake layer: Place the pan back into the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The center should be set but still slightly jiggly. Allow to cool to room temperature to avoid cracking.
  8. Add caramel topping: Once cooled, spread the caramel sauce evenly over the cheesecake layer. If desired, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt for a salted caramel effect.
  9. Chill: Refrigerate the cheesecake bars for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow them to fully set and develop flavors.
  10. Slice and serve: Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Slice into squares or rectangles and serve chilled for the best texture and taste.

Notes

  • Ensure cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
  • For best results, press the crust firmly to prevent crumbling when cutting the bars.
  • Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry for cleaner slices.
  • Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • You can substitute caramel sauce with homemade caramel for a fresher flavor.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

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Find it online: https://homegrownbeets.com/decadent-caramel-cheesecake-bars-recipe/