Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars

If you’re looking for a dessert that combines the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake with the irresistible flavors of butterscotch and graham crackers, these Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars are the perfect treat. These decadent bars are easy to make, require no baking, and are sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a special holiday dessert, or simply craving something sweet, these cheesecake bars are a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.

Ingredients for Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars

• For the crust:
• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• For the cheesecake filling:
• 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• For the butterscotch topping:
• ½ cup butterscotch chips
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream

Directions

1. Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

To start, combine the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar in a medium-sized bowl. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture is well combined and the crumbs are moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a lined 9×9-inch baking dish, forming an even layer. Refrigerate while you prepare the cheesecake filling.

2. Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract and continue beating until well incorporated. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined. The mixture should be smooth and fluffy.

3. Assemble the Cheesecake Bars

Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top, ensuring it’s level. Once it’s spread out evenly, refrigerate the cheesecake bars for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow them to set.

4. Prepare the Butterscotch Topping

In a small saucepan, melt the butterscotch chips with the heavy cream over low heat. Stir constantly until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. Let the butterscotch sauce cool slightly before drizzling it over the set cheesecake bars. Use a spoon or a piping bag to add a beautiful drizzle pattern on top.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Once the butterscotch topping has set, cut the cheesecake into bars. Serve chilled and enjoy the perfect balance of creamy cheesecake, crunchy graham cracker crust, and sweet, buttery butterscotch.

Tips for Success

• Chill the Bars Properly: Make sure to refrigerate the bars for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to ensure the cheesecake filling sets properly and holds together when sliced.
• Customize the Crust: If you love a bit more texture in your crust, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or a handful of chopped nuts to the graham cracker crumbs for an extra burst of flavor.
• Double the Butterscotch: For an extra indulgent touch, double the amount of butterscotch chips and heavy cream for a thicker, more gooey topping.

Why You’ll Love These Cheesecake Bars

• No Bake: This recipe is perfect for those who want a delicious dessert without turning on the oven.
• Rich and Creamy: The combination of cream cheese and whipped cream creates a velvety filling that is perfectly balanced with the sweetness of butterscotch.
• Make-Ahead Dessert: These bars can be prepared ahead of time, making them a great option for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings.

Variations

• Add Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts can be sprinkled on top of the bars before refrigerating for added texture and flavor.
• Chocolate Lovers: For a chocolate twist, drizzle melted chocolate or sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top along with the butterscotch.
• Fruit Topping: Try adding a layer of fresh fruit, like bananas or strawberries, before serving for a burst of freshness.

Conclusion

Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars are a delightful, easy-to-make dessert that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a fluffy cheesecake filling, and a sweet butterscotch drizzle, these bars are an irresistible treat for any occasion. Perfect for busy days or special gatherings, these cheesecake bars offer a little taste of heaven in every bite.

Serving and Storage Tips for Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars

To get the most out of your Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars, here are some helpful serving and storage tips to ensure they stay fresh and delicious:

Serving Tips

1. Chill Before Serving: Always serve these cheesecake bars chilled. This ensures the filling is firm and holds its shape when cut. If you’ve allowed them to set in the fridge overnight, they should be perfect for slicing.
2. Presentation: To elevate the presentation, you can garnish the bars with a light sprinkle of crushed graham cracker crumbs, a few extra butterscotch chips, or even a dollop of whipped cream.
3. Perfect Portions: Use a sharp knife to cut clean, neat squares. For the best results, run the knife under hot water before slicing and wipe it dry between cuts to keep the pieces looking tidy.
4. Serve on a Platter: Arrange the bars on a decorative platter or tray for a beautiful dessert spread, especially if you’re serving at a party or gathering.

Storage Tips

1. Refrigerate Leftovers: Store any leftover cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cool temperature will help preserve the creamy filling and keep the crust from becoming soggy.
2. Freeze for Longer Storage: If you want to make these bars ahead of time or save extras for later, you can freeze them. Place the bars on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm (about 2 hours). Once frozen, transfer the bars to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
3. Thawing Frozen Bars: To thaw frozen cheesecake bars, simply place them in the refrigerator overnight. You can also let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour before serving for a quicker thaw.
4. Avoid Freezing the Topping: While the cheesecake bars freeze well, the butterscotch topping may lose its smooth texture when frozen. If you plan to freeze the bars, it’s best to add the butterscotch drizzle after thawing for the best presentation and taste.

By following these tips, you’ll ensure that your Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars stay as delicious and fresh as the day they were made, whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them as a sweet treat later!

1. Can I use a different crust for these cheesecake bars?

Yes, you can customize the crust! While the classic graham cracker crust is a favorite, you can try using digestive biscuits, vanilla wafer cookies, or shortbread cookies as an alternative. Simply crush them into crumbs and follow the same method for mixing with butter and sugar.

2. Can I make these cheesecake bars without butterscotch chips?

Absolutely! If you don’t have butterscotch chips or prefer a different flavor, you can substitute with caramel chips, chocolate chips, or even a fruit topping like fresh strawberries or a berry compote. The cheesecake itself will still be creamy and delicious, with or without the butterscotch.

3. How do I prevent the cheesecake filling from being too runny?

To ensure your cheesecake filling is firm and stable, make sure you’re using full-fat cream cheese and whipping the heavy cream to stiff peaks before folding it into the cream cheese mixture. Also, refrigerating the bars for at least 4 hours or overnight allows the filling to set properly.

4. Can I make these cheesecake bars ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, these bars are ideal for making ahead of time. You can prepare them a day or two in advance and store them in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together and ensures a firm, sliceable texture when you’re ready to serve them.

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