Luscious Decadent Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe: Sweet Bliss

Sweet dreams come alive with these rich caramel cheesecake bars that dance between creamy indulgence and smooth sophistication.

Layers of buttery graham cracker crust perfectly complement the silky cream cheese filling.

caramel ribbons weave through each delectable bite, creating a mesmerizing dessert experience.

Delightful textures emerge as you savor the complex flavor profile.

Crisp edges contrast with the velvety center, promising a sensational treat.

Professional bakers and home cooks alike will adore this straightforward yet impressive recipe.

Prepare to be transported into a world of pure culinary bliss.

FAQs

• Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?

Low-fat cream cheese can work, but full-fat cream cheese provides the best texture and richness for these cheesecake bars. The higher fat content ensures a smoother, creamier result.

• How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake bars?

Avoid overmixing the batter, bake at the correct temperature, and let the bars cool gradually in the oven with the door slightly open. These steps help prevent unsightly cracks in your cheesecake.

• Is it necessary to use a water bath for this recipe?

No water bath is needed for these cheesecake bars. The method of cooling in the oven with the door ajar helps create a smooth, crack-free surface without the extra complexity of a water bath.

Decadent Caramel Cheesecake Bars Are A Crowd Pleaser

• Simplify Dessert Preparation: Dive into a hassle-free baking experience with minimal steps and straightforward ingredients that anyone can master, even without professional pastry skills.
• Create Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Impress family and friends with a decadent dessert that combines the rich creaminess of cheesecake with the luxurious sweetness of caramel, perfect for gatherings and potlucks.
• Customize with Ease: Personalize your bars by adding sea salt, extra caramel drizzle, or even a chocolate garnish to make this recipe uniquely yours and suit different taste preferences.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare these bars in advance and store in the refrigerator, making them an ideal dessert for busy hosts who want to plan ahead without sacrificing flavor or presentation.

Everything Needed For Rich Caramel Cheesecake Bars

• Graham Cracker Crumbs: A classic cookie base that provides a sweet and crunchy foundation for the cheesecake bars.
• Butter: Helps bind the crust ingredients and adds rich flavor.
• Sugar: Sweetens and helps the crust hold together.

• Cream Cheese: The primary ingredient that creates the smooth, rich, and creamy texture of the cheesecake.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and balances the tanginess of the cream cheese.
• Sour Cream: Enhances the creamy texture and adds a subtle tangy flavor.
• Eggs: Provide structure and help the filling set properly.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, classic flavor that complements the cream cheese.

• Caramel Sauce, Sea Salt: Creates a sweet and salty finish that elevates the flavor profile of the cheesecake bars.

How To Bake Decadent Caramel Cheesecake Bars Easily

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to a cozy 325F (163C).

Grab a 9×13-inch baking pan and give it a quick spray with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Create the Crunchy Base

Grab a mixing bowl and toss in graham cracker crumbs, a sprinkle of sugar, and melted butter.

Mix these buddies together until they form a sandy texture.

Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan, creating a solid foundation for your cheesecake bars.

Step 3: Whip the Cream Cheese

In a large mixing bowl, grab your electric mixer and beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar.

Whip these ingredients until they become silky smooth and creamy, with no lumps in sight.

Step 4: Blend the Wet Ingredients

• Sour cream
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract

Beat these ingredients into the cream cheese mixture until everything is perfectly combined and looks glossy and smooth.

Step 5: Fill the Crust

Pour the luscious cheesecake filling over your prepared graham cracker crust.

Use a spatula to spread it evenly, making sure every corner gets some love.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes.

You’re looking for set edges and a center that still has a gentle wiggle.

Once done, turn off the oven and crack the door open, letting the bars cool slowly for an hour.

Step 7: Chill and Set

Transfer the pan to the refrigerator and let it rest for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.

This helps the bars firm up and develop their ultimate creamy texture.

Step 8: Drizzle with Decadence

Just before serving, unleash your inner dessert artist.

Drizzle caramel sauce generously over the top and sprinkle a pinch of sea salt for that irresistible sweet-salty contrast.

Step 9: Slice and Savor

Cut into squares and prepare for a moment of pure bliss.

These caramel cheesecake bars are a creamy, dreamy treat that’ll make taste buds dance with joy!

Expert Tips For Cheesecake Bars With Caramel

• Let cream cheese sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before mixing to ensure a smooth, crack-free texture.
• Press graham cracker mixture firmly and evenly to create a solid, compact base that won't crumble when cutting.
• Watch closely during the last 5 minutes of baking to avoid overbaking, which can lead to dry, tough cheesecake bars.
• Refrigerate bars for at least 4 hours or overnight, then use a clean, warm knife to slice through cleanly and create neat squares.
• Sprinkle flaky sea salt over caramel drizzle to balance sweetness and add a gourmet touch to the dessert.

Fun Variations For Caramel Cheesecake Bar Fans

• Chocolate Lovers' Dream: Replace graham cracker crust with chocolate cookie crumbs and add melted dark chocolate to the cheesecake filling for an intense chocolate experience.
• Gluten-Free Friendly: Swap graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free almond flour or crushed gluten-free cookies to accommodate gluten-sensitive guests.
• Fruit Fusion: Top the bars with fresh berry compote or swirl raspberry puree into the cheesecake filling for a fruity, tangy variation.
• Low-Carb Option: Use almond flour for the crust, replace sugar with stevia or erythritol, and incorporate sugar-free caramel sauce to create a keto-friendly version of the dessert.

Serving Caramel Cheesecake Bars For Dessert Tables

• Elegant Dessert Pairing: Serve these decadent bars alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a luxurious contrast of temperatures and textures.
• Gourmet Coffee Companion: Complement the rich cheesecake with a smooth espresso or cappuccino, allowing the caramel notes to dance with the coffee's robust flavor.
• Afternoon Tea Delight: Present these bars on a beautiful platter during an afternoon tea gathering, cutting them into smaller bite-sized pieces for easy sharing with friends.
• Garnish Glamour: Top each bar with a light sprinkle of crushed pecans or a delicate chocolate shaving to elevate the visual and flavor experience.

Storing Cheesecake Bars For A Second Day

• Store the caramel cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent absorbing other food odors.
• Wrap individual bars or the entire pan tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Gently warm individual bars in the microwave for 10-15 seconds on low power. Alternatively, let bars sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to soften slightly before enjoying.
• Remove from refrigerator 15-20 minutes before serving to allow bars to soften and reach optimal creamy texture.

Decadent Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe

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4.7 from 35 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Irresistible Caramel Cheesecake Bars bring creamy indulgence to dessert lovers seeking pure bliss. Layers of rich flavor meld perfectly, promising a mouthwatering experience that melts in your mouth and leaves you craving more.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (113 grams) melted butter

Cheesecake Filling:

• 2 (8 ounces/226 grams) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup sour cream
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Topping:

• 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/4 cup sea salt (optional, for sprinkling)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by greasing or lining with parchment paper.
2. Create the graham cracker crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter, then firmly press the mixture into an even layer across the pan’s bottom.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whip cream cheese and granulated sugar until achieving a silky, lump-free consistency.
4. Incorporate sour cream, eggs, and vanilla extract into the cream cheese mixture, blending thoroughly until smooth and uniform.
5. Gently transfer the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust, ensuring an even distribution across the entire surface.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, watching for set edges and a slightly trembling center. After baking, turn off the oven and allow bars to cool inside with the door slightly open for one hour.
7. Transfer the pan to the refrigerator and chill for a minimum of 4 hours, preferably overnight, to achieve perfect set and texture.
8. Prior to serving, enhance the bars with a luxurious caramel sauce drizzle and optional sea salt sprinkle for added depth of flavor.
9. Slice into elegant squares and indulge in these creamy, decadent cheesecake bars.

Notes

• Swap graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed gluten-free cookies for a celiac-friendly version.
• Reduce sugar content by using stevia or monk fruit sweetener for a lower-calorie dessert option.
• Prevent cheesecake cracks by avoiding overmixing and using room temperature ingredients for smoother texture.
• Create water bath method by placing pan inside larger baking dish filled with hot water to ensure even, gentle baking and prevent surface cracking.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 380 kcal
• Sugar: 27 g
• Sodium: 210 mg
• Fat: 28 g
• Saturated Fat: 16 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg