Coffee Caramel Cheesecake Bars

These Coffee Caramel Cheesecake Bars are rich, creamy, and bursting with bold coffee flavor, layered over a buttery graham cracker crust and drizzled with luscious caramel sauce. Perfect for dessert lovers and coffee enthusiasts, these bars combine smooth cheesecake, espresso, and caramel for an indulgent treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich & creamy – A smooth coffee-infused cheesecake filling.
• Easy to make – No water bath required!
• Perfect balance of flavors – Bold espresso, sweet caramel, and buttery crust.
• Great for any occasion – Perfect for holidays, parties, or a coffee break dessert.
• Make-ahead friendly – Tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Crust:

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

For the Coffee Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp cornstarch (helps prevent cracking)
• 2 tsp instant espresso powder (dissolved in 1 tbsp hot water)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup sour cream

For the Caramel Topping:

• ½ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• ¼ tsp sea salt (optional, for salted caramel)

Directions

this recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
3. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined.
4. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the pan.
5. Bake for 8 minutes, then let cool while preparing the filling.

Step 2: Make the Coffee Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
2. Add dissolved espresso, eggs, and vanilla, mixing until just combined.
3. Gently fold in sour cream, being careful not to overmix.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake Bars

1. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust and smooth the top.
2. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle.
3. Turn off the oven and let the bars cool inside for 10 minutes before removing.
4. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) for best texture.

Step 4: Add Caramel & Serve

1. Drizzle caramel sauce over the chilled cheesecake bars.
2. Sprinkle with sea salt, if using.
3. Slice into bars and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 9-12 bars
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Chill Time: 4 hours
• Total Time: 4 hours 50 minutes

Variations

• Extra Coffee Kick – Increase espresso to 1 tbsp for a bolder flavor.
• Chocolate Drizzle – Add melted dark chocolate on top.
• Nutty Twist – Sprinkle toasted pecans or almonds over the caramel.
• Keto-Friendly – Use almond flour crust and sugar-free sweeteners.

Storage & Freezing

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge.

FAQs

Can I use brewed coffee instead of espresso powder?

Yes! Replace espresso powder with ¼ cup strong brewed coffee, but reduce sour cream slightly.

How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?

Use room temperature ingredients, don’t overmix, and let it cool gradually.

Can I make this in a 9×13 pan?

Yes! Double the recipe and bake for 35-40 minutes.

What’s the best caramel for this recipe?

Homemade or thick store-bought caramel works best.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.

How do I get clean slices?

Use a sharp knife and wipe clean between cuts.

Can I add a chocolate crust instead?

Yes! Swap graham crackers for chocolate cookie crumbs.

Do I have to refrigerate before serving?

Yes! Chilling is key to setting the cheesecake properly.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

For best results, stick with cream cheese, but mascarpone can be used for extra richness.

What’s the best way to serve these?

With whipped cream, coffee, or ice cream!

Conclusion

These Coffee Caramel Cheesecake Bars are smooth, rich, and full of bold coffee flavor, balanced with sweet, buttery caramel. Whether you make them for dessert, a party, or a coffee break treat, they are guaranteed to impress. Try them today and enjoy every decadent bite!

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