Introduction
Indulge in these Decadent Caramel Cheesecake Bars – the perfect blend of creamy, buttery, and oh-so-sweet that everyone will crave! These little bites of happiness are a surefire way to win hearts at any gathering.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups crushed graham crackers
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- For the Caramel Topping:
- 1 cup caramel sauce
- A sprinkle of sea salt (optional)
Preparation Time
- Prep Time
- 15 minutes
- Cook Time
- 30 minutes
- Total Time
- 2 hours 45 minutes (including cooling time)
- Yield
- 16 bars
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy lifting.
2. Get started on the crust by mixing the crushed graham crackers, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press this dreamy mixture into the prepared pan, making sure it’s even and compact.
3. In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in the vanilla extract – it smells divine!
4. Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles.
5. Let the cheesecake cool to room temp, then pour the luscious caramel sauce on top. Pop it in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or until everything sets nicely.
6. Optional: Right before serving, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the caramel for that extra wow factor!
Nutritional Information (per bar)
- Calories: 320
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 20g
Conclusion
Unwrap the magic and enjoy every gooey, creamy bite!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy lifting.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
In a bowl, mix together the crushed graham crackers, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Press this mixture evenly and compactly into the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust, spreading it out evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles.
Step 5: Cool and Add Caramel
Allow the cheesecake to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, pour the caramel sauce over the top. Place it in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or until fully set.
Step 6: Serve with Optional Sea Salt
Right before serving, you may sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the caramel for an extra touch of flavor.
Notes
Serving Suggestion
These cheesecake bars are perfect for gatherings and can be cut into squares for easy serving.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Customization Options
Feel free to personalize the caramel topping with your favorite nuts or chocolate drizzle.
Cook techniques
Prepping the Baking Dish
Lining the baking dish with parchment paper creates an easy way to lift the cheesecake bars out after baking for clean cuts and presentation.
Mixing the Crust
Ensure that the graham cracker mixture is well combined and pressed firmly into the pan to create a sturdy base, which helps prevent crumbling.
Whipping the Cream Cheese
Use room temperature cream cheese for the filling to achieve a smooth and creamy texture. Beat thoroughly to eliminate lumps before adding other ingredients.
Egg Incorporation
Add eggs one at a time and mix well after each addition, ensuring even distribution without overmixing, which can introduce excess air and affect texture.
Checking for Doneness
The cheesecake is set when the edges are firm and the center slightly jiggles. Avoid overbaking to keep it creamy.
Cooling and Setting
Allow the cheesecake to cool to room temperature before adding caramel to prevent melting and ensure a beautiful layer.
Optional Sea Salt Topping
Adding a sprinkle of sea salt before serving enhances the flavor profile by balancing the sweetness of the caramel.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of crust?
Yes, you can use other cookies like Oreos or digestive biscuits to create a unique flavor for the crust.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! These cheesecake bars can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
How do I store leftover cheesecake bars?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days for best freshness.
Can I freeze the cheesecake bars?
Yes, you can freeze them! Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
What can I use instead of caramel sauce?
You could substitute homemade caramel sauce, chocolate ganache, or fruit preserves according to your taste preferences.
Conclusion
Indulging in these decadent caramel cheesecake bars is a delightful experience that combines creamy texture with sweet flavors, making them perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
