Caramel Cheesecake Bars

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup caramel sauce, divided
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream

Directions:

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to lift the bars out easily.
  2. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a crust.
  3. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and 1 cup sugar together until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
  4. Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the crust and spread evenly. Drizzle 1/4 cup caramel sauce over the batter. Pour the remaining cheesecake batter over the caramel layer and spread evenly.
  5. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly browned. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
  6. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set completely.
  7. Before serving, drizzle the remaining 1/4 cup caramel sauce mixed with heavy cream over the top. Cut into bars and serve.
  8. Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 50 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
  9. Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 16 bars

FAQs:

  • What are Caramel Cheesecake Bars?
    • Caramel Cheesecake Bars are a decadent dessert made with a buttery crust, a creamy cheesecake layer, and a rich caramel topping. They are typically baked in a square or rectangular pan and cut into bars for serving, combining the flavors of cheesecake and caramel in a convenient, bite-sized form.
  • How do I make Caramel Cheesecake Bars?
    • To make Caramel Cheesecake Bars, start by preparing a crust using crushed graham crackers, sugar, and melted butter. Press the crust mixture into the bottom of a baking pan. For the cheesecake layer, mix cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth, then pour over the crust. Bake until the cheesecake is set. Once cooled, pour caramel sauce over the top and refrigerate until firm. Cut into bars and serve.
  • Can I use store-bought caramel sauce for Caramel Cheesecake Bars?
    • Yes, you can use store-bought caramel sauce to save time. Simply pour the caramel sauce over the cooled cheesecake layer before refrigerating. Ensure the sauce is of good quality to enhance the flavor of your bars. Alternatively, you can make homemade caramel sauce for a richer, more personalized taste.
  • How should I store Caramel Cheesecake Bars?
    • Store Caramel Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you need to store them for longer, you can freeze the bars by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Can I customize Caramel Cheesecake Bars with additional toppings or flavors?
    • Yes, you can customize Caramel Cheesecake Bars by adding various toppings or flavors. Consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt over the caramel for a salted caramel version, or topping with chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or toffee bits. You can also swirl some chocolate or fruit preserves into the cheesecake layer before baking for added flavor.

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