If you have a sweet tooth that craves a luscious blend of creamy richness and buttery caramel, this Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe is going to be your new go-to treat. Imagine a perfectly firm graham cracker crust supporting a silky, tangy cheesecake layer, all crowned by a golden, gooey caramel topping that adds just the right amount of sweetness and depth. These bars are as delightful to make as they are to devour, bursting with textures and flavors that make every bite unforgettable. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or craving a cozy indulgence, this recipe promises satisfaction from the first forkful to the last crumb.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to build layers of taste and texture that are both classic and comforting. These staples come together effortlessly to create a show-stopping dessert that looks like it took hours but can be put together with ease.
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs: The crunchy base that adds the perfect buttery crisp to every slice.
- 1/4 cup sugar: Sweetens the crust just enough to balance the tang of the cheesecake.
- 1/2 cup butter, melted: Binds the crust ingredients while providing a rich, golden flavor.
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: The star of the cheesecake layer, lending smoothness and richness.
- 1 1/2 cups sugar: Adds sweetness to the creamy filling, ensuring it’s perfectly balanced.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and enhances all the other flavors.
- 4 large eggs: Provide structure and a luxurious texture to the cheesecake.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds a slight tang that cuts through the richness and keeps it light.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Gives a deep caramel flavor for the luscious topping.
- 6 tablespoons butter: Melts into the caramel sauce, making it rich and silky.
- 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk: Thickens and sweetens the caramel, making it decadently smooth.
- 2 tablespoons corn syrup: Prevents crystallization, ensuring the caramel stays creamy and glossy.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds off the caramel sauce with a note of comforting sweetness.
How to Make Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared dish, creating a sturdy, golden crust that will hold up beautifully under the creamy filling.
Step 2: Whip Up the Cheesecake Filling
Next, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar and vanilla extract until it’s perfectly smooth and creamy. Adding eggs one at a time ensures your filling stays velvety and prevents curdling. Once all eggs are incorporated, gently blend in the sour cream to introduce a subtle tanginess that keeps the cheesecake fresh and delightfully light. Pour this mixture evenly over the crust, smoothing it out to create an inviting canvas for the caramel topping.
Step 3: Bake and Cool the Cheesecake Layer
Bake for approximately 50 minutes until the filling has set but still jiggles slightly in the center. This precise doneness gives you that perfect creamy texture without an overly dense finish. After the timer goes off, turn the oven off and crack the door open to let the cheesecake cool gradually for 15 minutes—that slow cool prevents cracks. Then transfer it to a wire rack and allow it to cool for an additional hour to room temperature.
Step 4: Create the Luscious Caramel Sauce
While the cheesecake cools, melt butter and brown sugar together in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the sweetened condensed milk, corn syrup, and vanilla extract, then bring the mixture to a boil. Keep stirring until it reaches 225°F, which is key for achieving that perfect soft caramel consistency. Let the caramel cool slightly before pouring.
Step 5: Assemble and Set Your Caramel Topping
Pour the warm caramel sauce evenly over the cooled cheesecake layer, spreading it gently with a spatula to cover every inch. Allow the bars to set fully at room temperature or in the fridge until the caramel firms up just enough to hold its shape when sliced. Once set, cut into 24 irresistible squares and get ready to indulge in caramel-cheesecake bliss.
How to Serve Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate these bars, consider a sprinkle of flaky sea salt atop the caramel layer—this adds a savory contrast that intensifies the sweetness. Fresh berries or a dusting of finely chopped toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts also make beautiful and delicious additions that add both color and texture.
Side Dishes
Pair your caramel cheesecake bars with a simple drizzle of espresso or a glass of cold milk to balance the richness. A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream can turn each bar into a decadent dessert experience that feels like a celebration on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, arrange the bars on a decorative platter and garnish with edible flowers or a delicate drizzle of chocolate sauce for an elegant touch. Layering them in a dessert parfait glass with extra caramel and crushed graham crackers creates a stunning deconstructed cheesecake presentation that’s sure to wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover caramel cheesecake bars stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and moist for up to five days, making them perfect for advance baking and quick desserts throughout the week.
Freezing
These bars freeze wonderfully. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep for up to three months, allowing you to enjoy this caramel cheesecake goodness whenever the craving strikes.
Reheating
When you want to enjoy a bar chilled from the fridge, it’s best to eat it cold or at room temperature for optimal texture. If you prefer it slightly warm, gently microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften the caramel without melting the cheesecake too much.
FAQs
Can I use a different crust instead of graham cracker crumbs?
Absolutely! While graham cracker crumbs provide a classic base, you could also use crushed digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even finely chopped nuts mixed with a little sugar and butter for a unique twist.
How do I know when the cheesecake layer is done baking?
The edges should appear set and slightly puffed, but the center will have a gentle wobble, like Jello. This ensures a creamy and smooth texture rather than a dry or overcooked filling.
Why does the caramel sauce need corn syrup?
Corn syrup helps prevent the sugar crystals from forming, keeping the caramel sauce smooth and glossy instead of grainy, which is key for the perfect topping texture.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes, just substitute gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or use gluten-free cookies that suit your taste. The filling and caramel sauce are naturally gluten-free.
Is it necessary to let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door cracked?
Yes, this slow cooling helps prevent cracks on the surface of your cheesecake bars, ensuring they look as good as they taste.
Final Thoughts
This Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe truly brings together the best of both worlds—rich, creamy cheesecake with the all-time favorite caramel topping. From the simple ingredients to the luscious end result, it’s a dessert that will brighten any occasion and fill your kitchen with heavenly aromas. Give this recipe a try, share it with friends, and watch it become one of your cherished go-to sweet treats!
Print
Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes plus cooling time
- Yield: 24 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These luscious Caramel Cheesecake Bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a creamy cheesecake layer and a rich, homemade caramel topping. Perfectly balanced with sweet and tangy flavors, these bars make an irresistible dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
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
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until evenly mixed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form an even crust.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1 1/2 cups of sugar and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, blending well after each addition. Finally, fold in the sour cream until fully incorporated. Pour this cheesecake mixture over the crust in the baking dish and smooth the surface evenly.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 50 minutes. Once done, turn off the oven, slightly crack the oven door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 15 minutes. Then remove it and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely for 1 hour.
- Prepare the Caramel Topping: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and brown sugar, stirring frequently. Add the sweetened condensed milk, corn syrup, and vanilla extract. Bring the mixture to a boil while stirring continuously and cook until the caramel reaches 225°F on a candy thermometer. Remove from heat and let the caramel cool slightly but still pourable.
- Assemble and Serve: Pour the warm caramel evenly over the cooled cheesecake. Use a spatula to spread it smoothly. Allow the caramel layer to set completely at room temperature before cutting the dessert into 24 squares. Serve and enjoy your indulgent caramel cheesecake bars!
Notes
- Be sure to soften the cream cheese to avoid lumps in your cheesecake batter.
- Use a candy or instant-read thermometer to precisely gauge the caramel’s temperature for the perfect consistency.
- The bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, covered tightly with plastic wrap or foil.
- For easier cutting, chill the cheesecake bars thoroughly before slicing.
- If you prefer a less sweet topping, reduce the sugar in the caramel slightly, but this may affect texture.
