Creamy Caramel Cheesecake Bars (Printable)
Rich cheesecake bars on buttery crust topped with smooth homemade caramel sauce.
# What You'll Need:
→ Crust
01 - 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
02 - 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
03 - 2 tbsp granulated sugar
04 - Pinch of salt
→ Cheesecake Filling
05 - 16 oz cream cheese, softened
06 - 1/2 cup sour cream
07 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
08 - 2 large eggs
09 - 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
10 - 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
→ Caramel Topping
11 - 1 cup granulated sugar
12 - 1/4 cup water
13 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cubed
14 - 1/2 cup heavy cream
15 - 1/4 tsp sea salt
# Directions:
01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9x9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
02 - Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and salt in a medium bowl until combined. Press firmly into bottom of prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes. Let cool slightly.
03 - Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sour cream and sugar, mixing until creamy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla and flour. Mix until just combined.
04 - Pour filling over crust and smooth top. Bake for 35-40 minutes until center is set but still slightly jiggly. Cool completely on wire rack, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
05 - Heat sugar and water in saucepan over medium heat, swirling (not stirring) until mixture turns deep amber. Remove from heat and carefully whisk in butter. Slowly add heavy cream, whisking until smooth. Add salt if using.
06 - Cool caramel slightly, then pour over chilled cheesecake. Spread evenly and refrigerate for another hour.
07 - Lift bars from pan using parchment overhang. Cut into 16 squares and serve.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- The buttery graham crust balances the tangy cheesecake perfectly
- Homemade caramel is easier than you think and tastes incredible
- Make ahead friendly so you can actually enjoy your party
02 -
- Dont open the oven door during baking or the sudden temperature change can cause cracks
- The center continues cooking as it cools so removing it while slightly jiggly is perfect
- Caramel goes from perfect to burned in seconds so watch it like a hawk
03 -
- Process extra graham crackers and freeze the crumbs for future baking
- Double the caramel recipe and keep extras in the fridge for ice cream topping
- Place the pan of cheesecake inside a larger pan with hot water for a water bath