These Caramel Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves creamy cheesecake and rich caramel flavors. They feature a buttery graham cracker crust, a silky smooth cheesecake layer, and a luscious swirl of caramel topped with a sweet crumb topping. Finished with an extra drizzle of caramel, these bars are indulgent, perfectly balanced, and ideal for holidays, parties, or a special homemade dessert.
Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Ingredients
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/8 teaspoon fine sea salt
16 ounces cream cheese softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs room temperature
1/2 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon all purpose flour
1 1/2 cups thick caramel sauce divided
1/2 cup all purpose flour
1/2 cup light brown sugar packed
1/4 cup unsalted butter cold and cubed
1/4 teaspoon fine sea saltCook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark
Instructions
1. Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the long sides, and lightly grease the parchment and any exposed pan edges.
2. In a bowl combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1/8 teaspoon fine sea salt, and 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter until the mixture looks like wet sand and clumps when pressed.
3. Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake at 325°F 165°C for 8 to 10 minutes until lightly fragrant, then set aside to cool slightly.
4. In a large mixing bowl beat the softened cream cheese with 3/4 cup granulated sugar until completely smooth and creamy, scraping down the bowl as needed.
5. Add the sour cream and vanilla extract and beat again until silky, then mix in the all purpose flour just until combined.
6. Beat in the eggs one at a time on low speed, mixing only until each egg disappears into the batter so you do not incorporate too much air.
7. Pour the cheesecake filling over the slightly cooled crust, spreading it into an even layer and tapping the pan gently on the counter to release air bubbles.
8. Warm 1 1/4 cups of the thick caramel sauce until just pourable, then drizzle it over the cheesecake layer and lightly swirl it through the top portion of the batter with a knife or offset spatula.
9. In a separate bowl combine 1/2 cup all purpose flour, 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt, then cut in the 1/4 cup cold cubed unsalted butter until coarse crumbs form.
10. Sprinkle the crumb mixture evenly over the caramel covered cheesecake layer, covering as much of the surface as possible.
11. Bake at 325°F 165°C for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the edges are set, the topping is golden, and the center jiggles slightly when the pan is gently shaken.
12. Cool the pan on a wire rack until it reaches room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until the bars are completely chilled and firm.
13. Before serving warm the remaining 1/4 cup caramel sauce until pourable and drizzle it over the top of the chilled bars.
14. Use the parchment overhang to lift the slab from the pan, cut into bars with a sharp knife, wiping the blade clean between slices for neat edges.
Health Benefits
1. Good Source of Calcium
Cream cheese and sour cream provide calcium, which helps support strong bones and teeth.
2. Provides Energy
Carbohydrates from graham crackers, sugar, and caramel provide quick energy, making these bars a satisfying treat.
3. Protein from Eggs and Dairy
Eggs and dairy ingredients contribute small amounts of protein that help support muscle maintenance.
4. Mood-Boosting Dessert
Enjoying sweet treats in moderation can boost mood and satisfaction, especially when homemade.
5. Homemade Ingredient Control
Making cheesecake bars at home allows you to control ingredient quality and sweetness levels.
