Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe
If you’re ready to experience dessert bliss, Caramel Cheesecake Bars are your golden ticket. These bars combine a buttery graham cracker crust with a rich, creamy cheesecake filling and the irresistible decadence of swirled caramel. Every bite offers the dreamiest contrast of textures, with sweet and salty notes that keep you coming back for just “one more.” Whether you’re prepping for a party or simply looking to treat yourself, Caramel Cheesecake Bars never disappoint — they’re pure comfort and an utter crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What I love about these bars is how each ingredient serves a delicious purpose — there’s truly no fluff here! Simple pantry staples transform into a show-stopping treat, so make sure to grab the best quality you can for each component.
- Graham cracker crumbs: These form the perfect crunchy, golden base that holds everything together and offers a classic cheesecake contrast.
- Granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to both the crust and the luscious filling — balance is key here.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Helps bind the crust while adding lovely richness to every bite.
- Cream cheese, softened: The star of any cheesecake; ensure it’s fully softened for a silky-smooth filling.
- Large eggs: Give structure to the cheesecake filling while adding creaminess and lift.
- Vanilla extract: Brings warm undertones and enhances all those classic cheesecake flavors.
- Sour cream: Introduces subtle tang for that authentic bakery-style cheesecake taste.
- Caramel sauce: Swirled both inside the bars and drizzled on top, this is where the magic happens — use your favorite store-bought or homemade caramel.
- Optional pinch of sea salt: A tiny sprinkle balances the sweetness and makes each bar extra special.
How to Make Caramel Cheesecake Bars
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This not only prevents sticking but also lets you lift out the bars with ease once they’re chilled and ready to slice. Little details like this make a big difference!
Step 2: Mix and Bake the Crust
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup of granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until all the crumbs are evenly moistened — you’re looking for a texture like wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan, then bake for 8 to 10 minutes. The crust should look just set and lightly golden. Take it out and let it cool while you work on the dreamy cheesecake filling.
Step 3: Blend the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until perfectly smooth. Add ½ cup of granulated sugar and beat again until fluffy and free from lumps. Next, beat in the eggs, one at a time, scraping down the bowl as needed to keep the batter silky and unified. Gently fold in the vanilla extract and sour cream for a filling that’s rich, creamy, and tangy — the secret to those irresistible Caramel Cheesecake Bars.
Step 4: Assemble and Swirl
Pour the cheesecake mixture over your cooled crust, using a spatula to smooth the surface evenly. Now for the star move: drizzle ½ cup of caramel sauce over the top. Use a knife or toothpick to gently swirl it into gorgeous marbled patterns. Swirling not only looks fabulous but also ensures you get caramel in every bite!
Step 5: Bake, Cool, and Chill
Bake the assembled cheesecake bars for 35 to 40 minutes, just until the center looks set but still has a touch of jiggle (think creamy rather than dry!). Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely at room temperature. Then, transfer the pan to the fridge for at least 3 hours to set. This patience pays off with clean slices and the perfect cheesecake texture.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Once your Caramel Cheesecake Bars are fully chilled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out in one piece. Slice into 12 bars, wiping your knife between cuts for those gorgeous, bakery-style edges. Finish with an extra drizzle of caramel sauce and a sprinkling of sea salt, if you like — pure decadence!
How to Serve Caramel Cheesecake Bars
Garnishes
Dress up your bars with an extra drizzle of caramel, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, or even a few crushed graham crackers on top. Fresh whipped cream and a few berries add a lovely burst of color and freshness, while chocolate curls or toffee bits lend extra crunch for those who want to go all out.
Side Dishes
Caramel Cheesecake Bars pair beautifully with fresh fruit, like sliced strawberries or raspberries, which cut through the richness with their zippy brightness. A hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk on the side makes the flavors pop and rounds out the experience. For a party, serve alongside a fruit salad or a platter of other mini desserts.
Creative Ways to Present
Get creative by serving the bars on a decorative platter with fun cocktail picks. For an extra-special touch, stack them in a tiered dessert stand at gatherings or box them up as edible gifts with parchment and ribbon. You can even cut the bars into bite-sized squares for cheesecake “bites” — perfect for parties or a sweet snack tray.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any bars left over, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay wonderfully fresh for up to 5 days, and the flavors actually develop, making each day tastier than the last!
Freezing
Caramel Cheesecake Bars freeze better than you’d think. Place the sliced bars in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container with parchment between layers. They’ll keep beautifully for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
While these bars are fantastic cold, if you prefer a softer, melt-in-your-mouth experience, let them sit at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes before serving. No need for the oven or microwave — just a gentle rest brings out the caramel’s gooey magic.
FAQs
Can I use a different crust for Caramel Cheesecake Bars?
Absolutely! Try swapping the graham cracker crumbs for crushed vanilla wafers, chocolate cookies, or even a gingersnap base for a special twist. The recipe is flexible and welcomes your creativity.
What’s the best caramel sauce to use?
You can use your favorite store-bought caramel sauce for ease, but if you love making things from scratch, homemade caramel really takes the bars up a notch. Just make sure the sauce is cool and pourable for easy swirling.
Can I double this Caramel Cheesecake Bars recipe?
Yes! Simply double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Keep an eye on the baking time; it may need a few extra minutes. It’s a great way to feed a crowd or prep for holidays.
How do I get clean slices every time?
Use a long, sharp knife and wipe it clean between each cut. For the neatest slices, make sure the bars are thoroughly chilled and use the parchment paper overhang to lift the whole slab out of the pan before cutting.
Are Caramel Cheesecake Bars gluten-free?
They can be! Just swap the graham cracker crumbs for a gluten-free alternative, and double-check your caramel sauce ingredients. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a fan of caramel and cheesecake, there’s truly nothing quite like these Caramel Cheesecake Bars. Every bite is creamy, dreamy, and beautifully balanced — a total treat for any occasion. I can’t wait for you to share these with family and friends. Give them a try and don’t be surprised when they become your new go-to dessert favorite!
Print
Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours (includes chilling)
- Yield: 12 bars 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the decadent delight of these Caramel Cheesecake Bars – a luscious combination of creamy cheesecake on a buttery graham cracker crust, swirled with caramel and finished with a sprinkle of sea salt.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup sour cream
- ½ cup caramel sauce, plus more for drizzling
- Optional pinch of sea salt for topping
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- Make the Crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup sugar, and melted butter. Press into the pan and bake.
- Prepare the Filling: Beat cream cheese until smooth, add sugar, eggs, vanilla, and sour cream. Pour over the crust.
- Add Caramel: Drizzle caramel sauce over the filling and swirl with a knife.
- Bake: Bake for 35–40 minutes until set. Cool, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours.
- Serve: Slice into bars, drizzle with more caramel and a pinch of sea salt if desired.
Notes
- Use store-bought or homemade caramel sauce.
- For clean slices, wipe the knife between cuts.
- Bars can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
