Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe
If you’re looking for a dessert that brings together the creamy richness of cheesecake with the lush, buttery allure of caramel, this Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. These bars boast a perfectly crumbly graham cracker crust, a smooth cheesecake filling, and a decadent homemade caramel topping that will have everyone reaching for seconds. They are wonderfully easy to make yet impressive enough to serve for any occasion. Once you try these caramel cheesecake bars, they might just become your go-to sweet treat that everyone will be asking about!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe plays a vital role in creating the irresistible layers of flavor and texture. From the buttery crust to the creamy filling and the luscious caramel topping, each component comes together simply but beautifully.
- Graham cracker crumbs (2 cups): The base that provides a crunchy, slightly sweet foundation.
- Sugar (1/4 cup + 1 1/2 cups): Adds sweetness for both the crust and the cheesecake filling.
- Butter, melted (1/2 cup + 6 tablespoons): Binds the crust and enriches the caramel topping with silky depth.
- Cream cheese, softened (8 ounces): The star ingredient for that classic creamy cheesecake texture.
- Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons + 1 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor with warm, inviting notes.
- Eggs (4 large): Essential for the cheesecake’s smooth, set consistency.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Adds a subtle tang and extra creaminess to the cheesecake filling.
- Brown sugar (1/2 cup): Brings a deep, caramel-like sweetness to the topping.
- Sweetened condensed milk (14 ounces): The secret to that luscious, gooey caramel layer.
- Corn syrup (2 tablespoons): Helps create a smooth, glossy caramel without crystallizing.
How to Make Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure the bars won’t stick. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your dish to form an even crust. This layer will be the crunchy foundation for all the deliciousness that follows.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is silky smooth and free of lumps—this is key to a creamy texture. Then, add the eggs one at a time, blending well after each addition to create a rich but light filling. Stir in the sour cream last to add a tangy moistness that balances the sweetness perfectly.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
Pour your cheesecake filling right over the crust, smoothing it out with a spatula so it bakes evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes—the edges will firm up while the center retains a slight jiggle, which is exactly what you want. After baking, turn off the oven and crack the door open to let the cheesecake cool gently for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool for an additional hour. This cooling process prevents cracks and keeps the texture flawless.
Step 4: Prepare the Caramel Topping
The crowning glory of this recipe is the homemade caramel. In a saucepan, melt the butter and brown sugar together, stirring constantly until smooth. Add the sweetened condensed milk, corn syrup, and vanilla extract, then bring the mixture to a boil while stirring until it reaches 225°F—the perfect temperature to achieve that thick, smooth caramel. Let it cool just a bit to thicken slightly before adding it to your cheesecake.
Step 5: Top and Set
Pour the luscious caramel evenly over the cooled cheesecake. Use a spatula to spread it gently across the surface, ensuring every bar gets a generous layer of sweet, buttery goodness. Allow the caramel topping to set completely at room temperature or in the fridge before cutting into squares. This way, your caramel layer will be gloriously gooey but hold together beautifully.
How to Serve Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
While these caramel cheesecake bars are perfect on their own, adding a few complementary garnishes can elevate the experience. Consider a light dusting of sea salt to enhance the caramel’s richness or some chopped toasted pecans for an extra crunch. Fresh berries like raspberries or sliced strawberries add a bright, tart contrast that pairs wonderfully with the sweet, creamy layers.
Side Dishes
Pair these bars with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to add a cool, airy contrast. A simple cup of coffee or a rich espresso can also be the perfect beverage to balance the dessert’s sweetness. For an extra special touch, a drizzle of chocolate sauce on the side can create a delightful flavor combo.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation makes a big difference when serving Caramel Cheesecake Bars. Try layering them in a clear glass dessert dish to showcase the beautiful layers, or serve individual squares on decorative plates with a small sprig of mint. For gatherings, you can also skewer bite-sized bars alongside fresh fruits like grapes or sliced apples for a fun, shareable treat board.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These bars keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. The flavors actually deepen as they rest, so leftovers might even taste better the next day. Just be sure to keep them chilled to maintain that perfect cheesecake texture and prevent the caramel from becoming too sticky.
Freezing
If you want to prepare these bars in advance, they freeze wonderfully. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to three months without losing their deliciousness. When ready, thaw them overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
While these bars are typically served chilled, you can warm them slightly if you prefer. Just pop a bar in the microwave for about 10 seconds to soften the caramel for an extra gooey bite. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the cheesecake to lose its creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of crust for this recipe?
Absolutely! While graham cracker crust is classic and adds a lovely crunch, you can experiment with crushed cookies like digestive biscuits or even pretzels for a salty-sweet twist. Just make sure to adjust the sugar and butter amounts to get the right consistency.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or gluten-free crushed cookies in place of the traditional graham crackers. The rest of the recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it an easy switch for those with dietary needs.
How thick should the caramel layer be?
The caramel should be thick enough to coat the cheesecake nicely but not so heavy that it overwhelms the bars. Pour a generous layer—about 1/4 inch thick—and allow it to set firmly. This results in that perfect balance of creamy cheesecake and buttery caramel in every bite.
Can I prepare the caramel topping ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the caramel topping ahead and store it in the fridge. Just warm it gently before pouring it over the cheesecake, as it thickens when chilled and might be difficult to spread cold.
What should I do if my caramel crystallizes?
If your caramel becomes gritty or grainy, it likely crystallized due to sugar. To fix this, add a little bit of water and gently reheat while stirring continuously until it smooths out again. Using corn syrup, as in this recipe, helps prevent crystallization from the start.
Final Thoughts
You simply cannot go wrong with this Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe. It’s a crowd-pleaser that marries texture and flavor in the most satisfying way. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just a cozy night in, these bars are sure to bring smiles and requests for the recipe. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and dive into this delicious project—you’ll be so glad you did!
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Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes plus cooling
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
Description
Deliciously creamy caramel cheesecake bars with a buttery graham cracker crust, smooth cheesecake filling, and a rich homemade caramel topping. Perfect for an indulgent dessert that’s easy to slice and serve.
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 the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, 1 1/2 cups sugar, and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the sour cream until just combined. Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 50 minutes. After baking, turn off the oven and crack the oven door open, allowing the cheesecake to cool inside for 15 minutes to prevent cracking. Remove and transfer to a wire rack, cooling for an additional 1 hour.
- Prepare the Caramel Topping: In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the butter melts. Stir in the sweetened condensed milk, corn syrup, and vanilla extract. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly until the caramel reaches 225°F on a candy thermometer. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Top with Caramel and Serve: Pour the slightly cooled caramel evenly over the cooled cheesecake. Spread gently to cover. Allow the caramel topping to set at room temperature before cutting the cheesecake into bars. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth filling.
- Use a candy thermometer to get precise caramel temperature for perfect consistency.
- Let the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven to minimize cracks.
- Cut bars with a warm knife for clean slices.
- You can refrigerate the bars after caramel has set to firm them further before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
