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These caramel cheesecake bars bring creamy sweetness layered with a buttery graham crust and silky caramel drizzled on top perfect for when you crave a comforting dessert that feels special yet simple enough to make at home
I made these for a friend’s birthday and they disappeared so fast I had to bake a second batch the next day because everyone wanted to take some home
Ingredients
- Graham cracker crumbs: for a sturdy flavorful crust choose a fresh pack for best texture
- Granulated sugar: to balance sweetness in both crust and filling
- Unsalted butter: melted to bind the crust and add rich taste
- Cream cheese: softened for a creamy smooth filling use full fat for best results
- Sour cream: to add tang that balances the sweetness
- Large eggs: to help set the filling without cracks
- Vanilla extract: for warm depth in the cheesecake layer
- Caramel sauce: for drizzling on top choose a good quality caramel for a silky finish
- Sea salt: optional for balancing sweetness and adding a light crunch
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 163 degrees Celsius and grease a 23 by 33 centimeter baking pan or line it with parchment for easy lifting once the bars are set
- Make the Crust:
- Combine graham cracker crumbs granulated sugar and melted butter in a bowl mix until evenly moistened press firmly into the prepared pan to form an even layer that will hold up when sliced
- Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large bowl beat softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy add sour cream eggs and vanilla extract and continue beating until the mixture is fully combined and has a silky consistency
- Bake the Cheesecake Bars:
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust and smooth the surface bake for thirty five to forty minutes until the edges are set and the center has a gentle wobble turn off the oven and let the bars cool inside with the oven door slightly open for one hour to prevent cracking
- Chill and Set:
- Remove the pan from the oven and refrigerate the bars for at least four hours or overnight to ensure they are fully set and easy to slice cleanly
- Finish and Serve:
- Once chilled drizzle the caramel sauce evenly over the top sprinkle with sea salt if you like for added contrast cut into neat squares and serve to enjoy the creamy caramel layered flavor
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I love using a high quality caramel sauce for drizzling because it makes each bite feel special and I remember my family asking for extra caramel every time I serve these
Storage Tips
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days to keep the bars fresh and creamy they also taste great cold from the fridge
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use crushed digestive biscuits if you cannot find graham crackers and light cream cheese can be used but will result in a softer texture
Serving Suggestions
Serve with fresh berries on the side or a dollop of whipped cream if you want to add a lighter touch for a dessert platter
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Cultural Note
Cheesecake bars are a modern twist on traditional cheesecake making it easier to serve at gatherings without the need for plates and forks while still offering the classic flavor everyone loves
Common Recipe Questions
- → How do I prevent cheesecake bars from cracking?
Allow the bars to cool gradually in the oven with the door ajar to prevent sudden temperature changes, reducing cracks.
- → Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Yes, you can use store-bought caramel sauce for convenience, ensuring it is thick enough to drizzle without running off the bars.
- → How can I slice the bars cleanly?
Use a sharp knife and clean it between cuts for neat, clean edges when slicing the chilled cheesecake bars.
- → Can I make these bars ahead?
Yes, these bars can be made a day ahead and kept refrigerated to allow the flavors to meld and the bars to set completely.
- → Should I add sea salt to the topping?
Sprinkling sea salt on top of the caramel is optional but enhances the flavor by balancing the caramel’s sweetness.