Decadent Caramel Cheesecake Bars

Decadent Caramel Cheesecake Bars offer a perfect balance of creamy cheesecake and sweet caramel layered on a buttery graham cracker crust. This dessert feels both luxurious and comforting, making it an ideal choice for special celebrations or a casual indulgence. The optional sprinkle of sea salt adds a lovely contrast that elevates every bite.

Ingredients

• Graham cracker crumbs: These form a buttery, crunchy base that holds the cheesecake together so well. Look for fresh crumbs without added flavors.
• Granulated sugar: Measuring separately for the crust and filling ensures both layers are just the right sweetness.
• Melted butter: This binds the graham cracker crust into a firm base while adding richness. Use unsalted for better control of salt content.
• Cream cheese: Softened to room temperature, it creates the smooth, creamy texture that defines cheesecake.
• Sour cream: Adds a slight tanginess and makes the filling extra luscious. Choose full-fat for best results.
• Eggs: Large eggs help set the filling firmly while keeping it creamy without being dense.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the cheesecake flavor with a warm, sweet aroma. Use pure vanilla extract if possible.
• Caramel sauce: Either store-bought or homemade, this is the crowning glory. Thicker caramel works best to stay put on the bars.
• Sea salt: Optional but highly recommended as it balances the caramel’s sweetness with a gentle savory hit.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit or 163 degrees Celsius. Grease a 9 by 13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy removal later.

Prepare the Crust:

In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, one quarter cup of sugar, and melted butter. Stir thoroughly to fully coat the crumbs with butter. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of your pan to form the crust. This base provides a crunchy texture contrast to the creamy filling.

Beat the Cream Cheese and Sugar:

Place the softened cream cheese and one cup of granulated sugar in a large bowl. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, whip them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy with no lumps. This step is crucial for a silky cheesecake layer.

Add the Remaining Filling Ingredients:

Add the sour cream, eggs one at a time, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Beat just until everything is well combined and smooth. Avoid overmixing to keep the filling tender.

Pour and Spread Filling:

Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the prepared graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to smooth the surface so it bakes evenly.

Bake the Bars:

Place the pan in the oven to bake for 35 to 40 minutes. Watch for the edges to set firmly while the center remains slightly jiggly. This texture indicates the cheesecake will finish setting as it cools.

Cool Slowly:

Turn off the oven and slightly open the oven door. Leave the cheesecake bars inside to cool for one hour. This gradual cooling minimizes cracks on the surface.

Chill to Set:

Transfer the pan to the refrigerator and chill the bars for at least four hours or overnight. This step allows the cheesecake to fully firm up and the flavors to meld beautifully.

Add Topping and Serve:

Before serving, drizzle half a cup of caramel sauce evenly over the bars. If you like, sprinkle with sea salt to highlight the caramel sweetness. Cut into squares and enjoy the perfect creamy caramel dessert.

Save

Storage Tips

Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. For best texture, keep them chilled and only remove just before serving. When slicing for guests, wipe your knife clean between cuts for neat bars.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap the graham cracker crust for crushed shortbread or chocolate cookies to add different flavors and textures. Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream if that’s what you have on hand; the tanginess will be similar. If you want to skip salt, leave out the sea salt topping or substitute with a sugar sprinkle for extra sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these bars chilled alongside fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream to add freshness. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or black tea to balance the richness. For a party, drizzle extra caramel sauce on each slice just before serving to impress guests.

Save

Cultural Context

Cheesecake is a classic dessert with origins tracing back to ancient Greece, evolving over centuries to include many regional variations. The addition of caramel sauce adds a modern American twist, popular for its indulgent, gooey sweetness. Sea salt has become a trendy addition in recent years, perfectly balancing desserts and enhancing flavor complexity.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different crust?

Yes, chocolate cookie or shortbread crusts are great alternatives, adding unique flavors and textures to the bars.

→ How do I avoid cracks on the cheesecake surface?

Prevent cracks by not overbaking; the center should still jiggle slightly when removed. Cooling the bars slowly in the oven with the door ajar also helps maintain a smooth finish.

→ Is freezing these bars possible?

Absolutely. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator prior to serving for the best texture.

→ What’s the best way to drizzle caramel sauce?

Use a squeeze bottle or spoon to gently drizzle caramel in a zigzag pattern, ensuring even coverage and an appealing presentation.

→ How is homemade caramel sauce prepared?

Heat sugar until melted and amber, then slowly add butter and cream, stirring until smooth and thickened for rich caramel sauce.