Description

There’s something truly magical about caramel and cheesecake coming together. Each element brings its own charm—caramel with its rich, buttery sweetness and cheesecake with its creamy, slightly tangy goodness. Together, they create a dessert that’s not just indulgent but utterly unforgettable. These Decadent Caramel Cheesecake Bars strike the perfect balance between elegance and simplicity, making them a crowd-pleaser for both casual and formal occasions.

This recipe evokes memories of cozy family gatherings and celebrations where dessert wasn’t just the end of a meal—it was an experience. Cheesecake bars were always a favorite because they felt special without being fussy. Whether you’re savoring these bars during the holidays, bringing them to a potluck, or enjoying them as an end-of-the-week treat, they’ll quickly become a staple in your dessert repertoire.

Let’s dive into every delicious detail of these cheesecake bars, so you can create your own slice (or square!) of caramel heaven.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust:

1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ cup melted butter

For the Cheesecake Filling:

16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup sour cream
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping:

½ cup caramel sauce
Optional: Sea salt, for sprinkling

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and ¼ cup granulated sugar. Slowly drizzle in the melted butter, stirring until the mixture resembles wet sand. It should hold together when pressed.

Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan, ensuring the crust is compact and smooth. This is the foundation of your cheesecake bars, so take your time to press it down firmly. Bake the crust for about 10 minutes, then set it aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until it’s smooth and free of lumps. This step is crucial for a creamy filling, so don’t rush it.

Gradually add the sugar, continuing to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is evenly combined.

Add the sour cream and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. Then, incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating on low speed after each addition. Be careful not to overmix—the goal is a smooth, velvety batter without incorporating too much air, which can cause cracks during baking.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust, spreading it into an even layer. Tap the pan gently on the countertop to release any trapped air bubbles.

Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center jiggles slightly when shaken. The jiggle is key—it means your cheesecake is perfectly creamy. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for about an hour. This gradual cooling process helps prevent cracks.

Step 4: Chill and Top with Caramel

Once the cheesecake has cooled to room temperature, cover the pan and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. The chilling time allows the cheesecake to set and makes slicing much easier.

Before serving, drizzle the caramel sauce generously over the top of the cheesecake. For a salted caramel variation, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the caramel. Use a sharp knife to slice the cheesecake into bars, wiping the blade clean between cuts for neat edges.

Notes

Avoid Overbaking: The cheesecake is done when the edges are set, but the center is still slightly jiggly. Overbaking can lead to a dense texture or cracks.
Parchment Paper Tip: If you want to lift the cheesecake bars out of the pan for easier slicing, line the pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides. Once chilled, you can lift the entire block out and slice it neatly.
Customize the Caramel: Add a hint of sea salt for a salted caramel topping, or stir in a touch of vanilla extract to enhance the caramel’s flavor.
Cheesecake Texture: For the creamiest texture, resist the urge to increase the oven temperature or skip the cooling process in the oven. Cheesecake thrives on slow, steady baking and cooling.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust to adapt this recipe for those with dietary restrictions.
Plan Ahead: These bars taste even better the next day after the flavors meld together, so they’re a great make-ahead option.
Caramel Sauce: If using store-bought caramel sauce, look for one with a thick consistency for the best presentation and flavor. Homemade caramel sauce can add an extra-special touch if you have the time.