Name: Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 4 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs; ¼ cup granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; ½ cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ¼ cup sour cream; ½ cup caramel sauce (plus more for drizzling); Optional pinch of sea salt for topping

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If you’re looking for an irresistible fusion of creamy cheesecake and luscious caramel, these Caramel Cheesecake Bars are about to become your new dessert obsession. With their velvety cheesecake layer swirled with ribbons of caramel atop a classic graham cracker crust, each bite brings a delicious balance of sweet, tangy, and buttery flavors. They slice beautifully into bars, making them perfect for parties, potlucks, or when you simply want to treat yourself to a decadent dessert that looks as good as it tastes.

Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for Caramel Cheesecake Bars couldn’t be simpler, and every component is essential to creating the distinct layers and tempting flavor that make these bars unforgettable. From the crunchy crust to that perfect swirl of caramel on top, here’s what you’ll need and why each item matters.

Graham cracker crumbs: The foundation of the bars, adding crunch and buttery sweetness to balance the creamy filling.
Granulated sugar: Used in both the crust and the filling, it provides just the right amount of sweetness throughout.
Unsalted butter, melted: Holds the crust together and adds rich flavor—make sure it’s fully melted for even mixing.
Cream cheese, softened: The star of the cheesecake layer; ensure it’s room temperature for a silky, lump-free filling.
Large eggs: Bind the cheesecake mixture while adding subtle richness.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the classic cheesecake flavor and balances the sweetness of the caramel.
Sour cream: Adds a subtle tang that makes the filling incredibly smooth and luxurious.
Caramel sauce: Brings that signature sweetness and a gooey swirl—whether homemade or store-bought, quality matters here!
Sea salt (optional): Just a pinch on top intensifies the caramel flavor and gives a sophisticated finishing touch.

How to Make Caramel Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides. This little step makes lifting out the finished bars a breeze and ensures none of that amazing crust stays behind in the pan.

Step 2: Create the Graham Cracker Crust

In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand and is evenly moistened. Press it firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan. A flat-bottomed measuring cup works wonders here! Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, just until set, and then let it cool slightly before you move on.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until silky smooth—no lumps allowed! Add the remaining ½ cup of sugar and beat again until everything is well incorporated. Add the eggs one at a time, beating after each addition. Finally, mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream until your filling is creamy and completely blended.

Step 4: Assemble, Swirl, and Bake

Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over your pre-baked crust, smoothing out the top with a spatula. Now comes the magic—drizzle the caramel sauce over the top, then use a butter knife to gently swirl it for that gorgeous marbled effect. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the center is set but still has a gentle jiggle. Try not to overbake; that slight wobble means creamy bliss!

Step 5: Chill and Slice

Once baked, let your Caramel Cheesecake Bars cool completely at room temperature. Next, refrigerate for at least 3 hours (or overnight if you can wait)—this firming time is crucial for clean, beautiful slices. When ready, lift the bars out using the parchment overhang and slice into squares, wiping your knife between cuts for pristine edges.

How to Serve Caramel Cheesecake Bars

Garnishes

A finishing drizzle of warm caramel sauce over each bar makes them extra decadent. For a touch of elegance and contrast, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt right before serving. If you’re feeling festive, a few toasted pecans or a dollop of whipped cream add both flair and flavor.

Side Dishes

Pairing Caramel Cheesecake Bars with something light is a winning move. Fresh berries, a crisp fruit salad, or even a simple espresso all provide a refreshing contrast to their creamy richness. If you’re setting out a dessert table, these bars mingle perfectly alongside lemon bars or chocolate-dipped strawberries.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve each bar on a small dessert plate with a pretty fork, or stack them elegantly on a tiered tray for parties. For a fun twist, cut them into bite-sized squares and arrange like petit fours, or serve in mini cupcake liners for easy grab-and-go treats at potlucks and gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover Caramel Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to five days. The crust stays crisp and the flavors even seem to develop more depth after a day or two, making them an excellent make-ahead dessert.

Freezing

These bars freeze wonderfully! Arrange slices in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container with parchment between layers. They’ll keep for up to two months—just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

Caramel Cheesecake Bars are best enjoyed chilled, but if you prefer a slightly creamier texture, let them sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, as it can cause the cheesecake layer to break down and lose its smoothness.

FAQs

Can I use a different crust instead of graham crackers?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap graham crackers for other cookies like vanilla wafers, digestive biscuits, or even chocolate cookies for a twist on the classic flavor profile.

How can I make my own caramel sauce?

Making homemade caramel sauce is simple: melt 1 cup sugar in a saucepan until golden, stir in 6 tablespoons butter, then whisk in ½ cup heavy cream and a pinch of salt. Let it cool before swirling into your cheesecake bars.

What’s the best way to get clean slices?

For picture-perfect bars, use a sharp knife wiped clean between each cut. Chilling the bars thoroughly before slicing also helps maintain neat edges and lovely marbling.

Can I double this recipe for a crowd?

Yes! Just double all ingredients and spread into a 9×13-inch pan, adjusting the baking time slightly as needed. They slice beautifully for parties and potlucks.

Why did my cheesecake crack?

Cracks can happen if the bars are overbaked or cool too quickly. To avoid this, follow the recipe baking time and chill the bars gradually. Luckily, a fresh drizzle of caramel covers any imperfections!

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about sharing homemade Caramel Cheesecake Bars, whether you’re bringing smiles to a family dinner or elevating your next celebration. Their rich flavors and stunning swirls are guaranteed to impress. So, roll up your sleeves and give this treat a try—you might just find your new signature dessert!

Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe

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4.6 from 26 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 4 hours (includes chilling)
Yield: 12 bars 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the lusciousness of these Caramel Cheesecake Bars that marry the creaminess of cheesecake with the sweet decadence of caramel, all nestled on a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfect for satisfying your dessert cravings!

Ingredients

Scale

Graham Cracker Crust:

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

Cheesecake Filling:

16 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ cup sour cream

Topping:

½ cup caramel sauce (plus more for drizzling)
Optional pinch of sea salt for topping

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
Prepare the crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup sugar, and melted butter. Press firmly into the pan and bake for 8–10 minutes. Cool slightly.
Make the filling: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add ½ cup sugar, eggs, vanilla, and sour cream. Pour over crust.
Add toppings: Drizzle caramel sauce over the filling. Swirl gently with a knife. Bake for 35–40 minutes until set.
Cool and chill: Cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours. Slice into bars and drizzle with more caramel and salt before serving.