Indulge in Decadent Caramel Cheesecake Bars! Perfectly creamy cheesecake on a buttery crust, topped with rich caramel for an unforgettable dessert.
Introduction
When it comes to desserts, the combination of creamy cheesecake and rich caramel is simply irresistible. Caramel Cheesecake Bars take this classic pairing to a new level, creating a dessert that is both luxurious and easy to serve. Imagine a buttery graham cracker crust, topped with a layer of smooth, tangy cheesecake, all finished with a generous drizzle of homemade caramel. These bars are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special event, or simply craving a sweet treat. The process of making these bars is straightforward, and the result is a decadent dessert that will impress your friends and family. With their creamy texture, sweet caramel topping, and satisfying crunch from the crust, Caramel Cheesecake Bars are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Let’s dive into the recipe and get started!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup sour cream
For the Caramel Topping:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream until fully incorporated.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly golden. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
- To make the caramel topping, combine the sugar and water in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then stop stirring and let the mixture come to a boil.
- Cook until the mixture turns a deep amber color, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and carefully stir in the butter, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Be cautious as the mixture will bubble vigorously.
- Allow the caramel to cool slightly, then pour it over the chilled cheesecake layer, spreading it evenly.
- Refrigerate the bars for an additional hour to set the caramel topping. Once set, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang and cut into squares.
How to Prepare
Begin by making the crust: combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter, then press into the pan and bake. For the cheesecake layer, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth, then add eggs, vanilla, and sour cream. Spread this mixture over the cooled crust and bake until set. While the cheesecake chills, prepare the caramel by boiling sugar and water until amber, then carefully add butter, cream, vanilla, and salt. Pour the cooled caramel over the cheesecake and chill again before cutting into bars.
Preparation Time
- Active Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours (minimum)
- Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes
Servings
This recipe makes approximately 16 bars, perfect for sharing.
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Yes, you can substitute homemade caramel with store-bought caramel sauce to save time. Just ensure it’s of good quality for the best flavor.
2. How should I store these bars?
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2 months.
3. Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs for the crust to make the recipe gluten-free.
4. What if I don’t have sour cream?
You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt in equal amounts for a similar texture and flavor.
5. How can I prevent the cheesecake from cracking?
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. Avoid overbeating the batter and cool the cheesecake gradually to prevent cracks.
Conclusion
Caramel Cheesecake Bars are a delightful and indulgent treat that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet allure of caramel. Perfect for any dessert table, these bars are easy to make and guaranteed to impress. Their balanced flavors and creamy texture make them a favorite among both kids and adults. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet craving, these bars are sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Enjoy the process of creating and savoring these delicious Caramel Cheesecake Bars! Happy baking!
