Description
Indulge in rich and creamy caramel cheesecake bars with a buttery graham cracker crust, luscious cheesecake filling, and a gooey caramel topping. Perfect for dessert lovers seeking a simple yet impressive treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the crust:
1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
3 tbsp granulated sugar
6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake filling:
16 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
For the caramel topping:
½ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Sea salt (optional, for salted caramel)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang.
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until evenly combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the pan and bake for 8-10 minutes. Let cool.
- Make the cheesecake filling:
- Beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Spread the mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
- Bake the cheesecake layer:
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly. Let cool to room temperature.
- Add caramel topping:
- Spread caramel sauce evenly over the cheesecake. Sprinkle sea salt if desired.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Slice and serve:
- Use the parchment overhang to lift the bars from the pan.
- Slice into squares or rectangles and serve chilled.
Notes
For neat slices, dip a knife in warm water and clean between cuts.
Homemade caramel sauce enhances flavor but store-bought works just as well.
Bars are best chilled overnight to set fully.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 bars
- Calories: 320 kcal
