If you are craving a dessert that hits every note of creamy, sweet, and buttery, then you have got to try this Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe. These bars bring together a luscious graham cracker crust, velvety cream cheese filling, and a decadent homemade caramel swirl that creates a sensational marble effect. Perfectly balanced between rich and light, these cheesecake bars are the kind of treat that feels like a warm hug on a plate, whether you’re serving them at a family gathering or just indulging yourself on a quiet evening. Once you make these, they will quickly become one of your favorite go-to desserts for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to make these Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe is a delight because the ingredients are simple yet each one plays a key role in creating the perfect taste and texture. From the crispy graham cracker crust to the rich caramel topping, every component contributes something special to the final masterpiece.
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs: Provides a crunchy, slightly sweet base that supports the creamy cheesecake.
- 1/4 cup sugar: Sweetens the crust just enough without overpowering.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Binds the crust crumbs together and adds buttery richness.
- 2 pounds cream cheese, softened: The heart of the cheesecake – creamy and tangy for the perfect filling.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling evenly and enhances texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth of flavor to the cheesecake mixture.
- 4 large eggs: Binds and provides structure while keeping the texture smooth.
- 1/4 cup sour cream: Gives the filling a slight tang and extra creaminess.
- 1/4 cup heavy cream: Makes the cheesecake luxuriously smooth and rich.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: The key to that perfect homemade caramel’s deep, molasses flavor.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Combines with the brown sugar to create a luscious caramel sauce.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the caramel’s sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a finishing aromatic touch to the caramel topping.
How to Make Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C) and lining a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Combine graham cracker crumbs and sugar in a bowl, then stir in the melted butter until the mixture holds together. Press this buttery crumb mixture firmly into the pan and bake for about 10 minutes until golden and set. Let this crust cool while you prepare the glorious cheesecake filling.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s completely smooth. Slowly add sugar, vanilla extract, and eggs one at a time, making sure everything is perfectly incorporated before adding the next egg. Finally, mix in sour cream and heavy cream until the batter is silky and creamy. This filling is the star of the show—smooth and rich with just the right touch of tangy brightness.
Step 3: Prepare the Caramel Sauce
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt together brown sugar, butter, and salt, stirring constantly until everything dissolves and comes together. Once it begins to simmer, allow it to thicken slightly for about 2 minutes. Off the heat, stir in vanilla extract. This molten caramel will add a gooey, sweet contrast to the creamy filling and crunchy crust.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour the cheesecake batter evenly over the cooled graham crust. Drizzle the warm caramel sauce in swirls over the top, then use a knife or spoon to gently swirl the caramel through the batter for that gorgeous marbled effect. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly. Turn off the oven and let the bars cool inside for an hour before chilling.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
After the initial cool down, pop the entire pan in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 4 hours or overnight. This step solidifies the cheesecake bars, making slicing effortless and ensuring every bite is perfectly creamy and cool.
How to Serve Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a garnish to your Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe can elevate it visually and taste-wise. Consider sprinkling flaky sea salt over the top to contrast the sweetness, or a handful of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts for some crunch. Fresh berries or a light dusting of powdered sugar also add a lovely freshness and brighten the presentation beautifully.
Side Dishes
Keep the accompaniments simple so the bars can truly shine. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream pairs wonderfully with the rich caramel and cheesecake combo. For a unique twist, serve alongside a cup of strong coffee or a lightly brewed black tea to balance the dessert’s sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or special occasion, serve these bars on a rustic wooden board or a delicate dessert platter with decorative parchment paper beneath. You can also offer them in mini portions on individual dessert plates garnished with edible flowers or chocolate shavings. Swirling a little extra caramel sauce on each plate right before serving makes them look irresistible and extra inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover caramel cheesecake bars should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep their texture and flavor brilliantly for up to 4 days, making them a perfect make-ahead dessert for busy weeks or unexpected guests.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these bars later on, they freeze beautifully. Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Stored properly, they will hold up well for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before serving to maintain their luscious texture.
Reheating
These bars are best served chilled; however, if you prefer a slightly warm dessert, reheat individual pieces for 10-15 seconds in the microwave. Be careful not to overheat, as it can soften the crust and melt the caramel too much. A slight warmth pairs wonderfully with a scoop of ice cream.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of crust for this Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe?
Absolutely! While graham cracker crust is classic and complements the flavors perfectly, you can substitute with crushed digestive biscuits or even crushed pretzels for a unique salty twist. Just be sure to adjust sugar and butter accordingly to maintain the right consistency.
Is it necessary to chill the bars overnight?
Chilling overnight is highly recommended because it allows the cheesecake to fully set and flavors to meld beautifully. Though you can serve them after 4 hours, overnight chilling enhances the texture and makes slicing easier.
Can I make the caramel sauce in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the caramel sauce a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before drizzling over the cheesecake batter. Just be sure to stir it well to restore its smooth consistency.
What’s the best way to cut the bars cleanly?
Use a sharp knife and warm it by running under hot water, then dry thoroughly before slicing. This helps make clean cuts without tearing the cheesecake or dragging caramel layers.
Are these bars gluten-free?
Traditional graham cracker crumbs contain gluten, so these bars are not gluten-free as written. However, you can swap the crumbs for a gluten-free graham cracker or cookie substitute to create a gluten-free version that’s just as delicious.
Final Thoughts
This Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe is truly a showstopper that combines simple ingredients into an utterly irresistible dessert. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, these bars are straightforward to make and guaranteed to delight anyone lucky enough to get a bite. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to a batch—you’ll be so glad you did!
Print
Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These rich and creamy caramel cheesecake bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a smooth cheesecake layer swirled with homemade caramel sauce. Perfectly baked until just set, they make an indulgent dessert ideal for gatherings or special treats.
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling
- 2 pounds cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Caramel Sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
- Make Crust Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and sugar, mixing thoroughly.
- Add Butter to Crust: Stir in the melted butter until the mixture is evenly moistened and holds together when pressed.
- Press Crust into Pan: Firmly press the graham cracker mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan using the back of a spoon to create an even crust layer.
- Bake Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, until golden and set. Remove and allow to cool while preparing the filling.
- Beat Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
- Add Sugar: Incorporate granulated sugar into the cream cheese and beat until well combined, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Mix in Vanilla: Stir in vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Add Eggs: Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure complete incorporation.
- Add Creams: Beat in sour cream and heavy cream until the batter is smooth and creamy.
- Pour Filling Over Crust: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled crust using a spatula.
- Prepare Caramel Sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt brown sugar, butter, and salt together, stirring constantly.
- Simmer Caramel: Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for about 2 minutes until slightly thickened, stirring frequently.
- Add Vanilla to Caramel: Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Drizzle and Swirl Caramel: Drizzle caramel sauce over cheesecake batter and gently swirl with a spoon or knife to create a marbled effect.
- Bake Cheesecake Bars: Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, until edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Cool in Oven: Turn off the oven and let cheesecake bars cool inside the oven for at least 1 hour.
- Chill Bars: Transfer bars to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
- Slice and Serve: Lift cheesecake bars from pan using parchment overhang and cut into squares. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
- Be sure the cream cheese is softened for smooth, lump-free batter.
- The parchment paper overhang makes removing the bars easy without breaking.
- Allow the cheesecake to cool completely before chilling to prevent cracking.
- Swirling the caramel lightly helps create a beautiful marbled pattern.
- Use a sharp knife warmed in hot water for cleaner cuts when slicing.
