Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe

If you’re a fan of cheesecake and caramel, you’re going to love these Caramel Cheesecake Bars! With their creamy texture, rich caramel flavor, and a buttery crust, these bars are perfect for a sweet treat or a party dessert. This easy-to-follow recipe will walk you through creating these indulgent bars that will be a hit at any gathering. Let’s dive into the recipe and see how you can make these irresistible caramel cheesecake bars at home!

Why You’ll Love These Caramel Cheesecake Bars

These caramel cheesecake bars offer a delightful twist on the classic cheesecake. They combine a crumbly, buttery crust with a creamy cheesecake layer topped with a luscious caramel drizzle. Perfect for any occasion, they’re a dessert favorite that’s easy to make and hard to resist!

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Ingredients for Caramel Cheesecake Bars

To make these delicious caramel cheesecake bars, you’ll need:

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ cup granulated sugar

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

For the Caramel Topping:

• 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

this recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until the crumbs are well coated and resemble wet sand.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a lined 9×13-inch baking pan to create an even layer for the crust.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth.
2. Add the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Continue mixing until the ingredients are fully incorporated and the batter is smooth.
3. Add in the flour and mix again until no lumps remain.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the cheesecake batter over the prepared crust and spread it into an even layer.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
3. Remove from the oven and allow the cheesecake bars to cool completely in the pan.

Step 4: Add the Caramel Topping

1. Once the bars have cooled, pour the caramel sauce evenly over the cheesecake layer.
2. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the bars are fully set and the caramel has firmed up slightly.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

1. Once chilled, carefully lift the cheesecake bars out of the pan using the edges of the parchment paper.
2. Slice into bars and enjoy your delicious caramel cheesecake treats!

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Tips for Making the Best Caramel Cheesecake Bars

1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth, lump-free batter.
2. Use Parchment Paper: Line the baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal of the bars once they’re set.
3. Chill Before Slicing: For clean cuts, refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours to let them firm up before slicing.
4. Homemade Caramel Sauce: If you have time, make your own caramel sauce for an extra touch of freshness and flavor!

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Variations to Try

• Add Chocolate: Drizzle chocolate sauce along with caramel for a decadent chocolate-caramel combination.
• Salted Caramel: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the caramel layer to add a touch of saltiness to balance the sweetness.
• Nutty Twist: Add crushed pecans or walnuts on top for a crunchy finish.

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Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: ~320
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 22g

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Why Caramel Cheesecake Bars Make the Perfect Dessert

Caramel cheesecake bars are ideal for gatherings, potlucks, and family meals because they’re easy to transport, serve, and share. The creamy, smooth texture combined with a buttery crust and rich caramel topping makes these bars a crowd-pleaser. Plus, you can store them in the fridge for up to a week, so they’re a convenient make-ahead dessert.

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Serving and Storage Tips for Caramel Cheesecake Bars

Serving Tips

1. Chill Before Serving: These bars taste best when served chilled, so keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. The cool temperature helps the caramel set and enhances the creamy texture.
2. Clean Cuts: Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between each slice to keep the bars looking neat and professional.
3. Garnish: For an elegant touch, garnish each bar with a small dollop of whipped cream or a light sprinkle of sea salt, which adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness.

Storage Tips

1. Refrigerate: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This keeps them fresh and prevents the caramel from getting too sticky.
2. Freeze for Longer Storage: If you want to make them ahead, these bars freeze well! Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
3. Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw frozen bars in the refrigerator overnight, then add any desired toppings before serving.

These serving and storage tips will ensure your Caramel Cheesecake Bars stay fresh and look just as delicious as they taste!

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1. Can I make these caramel cheesecake bars ahead of time?
Yes, these bars are great for making ahead! Prepare them the day before and store them in the fridge overnight. This lets the flavors meld, and the caramel sets beautifully.

2. What’s the best way to prevent the cheesecake layer from cracking?
Ensure that your ingredients, especially the cream cheese and eggs, are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth batter that bakes evenly. Avoid over-mixing and try not to over-bake; a slight jiggle in the center is perfect!

3. Can I use homemade caramel instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! Homemade caramel adds a fresh, rich flavor. Just make sure it’s thick enough to spread easily without being too runny. If it’s warm, let it cool slightly before pouring it over the cheesecake layer.

4. How do I keep the crust from crumbling when cutting the bars?
To help the crust hold together, press it firmly into the pan before baking. After chilling the bars thoroughly, use a sharp knife for slicing and cut slowly to prevent the crust from breaking apart.

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