Description
Caramel cheesecake bars are a sweet, creamy treat with a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth cheesecake filling, and a rich, gooey caramel topping. These bars are perfect for any occasion, easy to serve, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With their sweet and salty flavor combination, they make for a deliciously indulgent dessert that’s simpler to make than traditional cheesecake but just as satisfying.
Ingredients
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For the crust:
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1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
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¼ cup sugar
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½ cup melted butter
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For the cheesecake filling:
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16 oz cream cheese (softened)
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½ cup sugar
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2 eggs
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1 tbsp flour (optional)
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For the caramel topping:
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1 cup granulated sugar
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6 tbsp unsalted butter
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½ cup heavy cream
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A pinch of salt
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Instructions
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Make the crust:
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Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
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In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
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Press the mixture into the bottom of a lined 9×9 pan.
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Bake for 10 minutes. Let cool.
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Make the filling:
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Beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
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Add eggs, one at a time, mixing gently.
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Stir in vanilla extract and flour (optional).
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Pour over the cooled crust and bake for 30–35 minutes.
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Let cool to room temperature and refrigerate for 2 hours.
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Make the caramel topping:
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Heat sugar in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until golden.
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Add butter, then slowly pour in the heavy cream.
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Stir in a pinch of salt and let cool for 10–15 minutes.
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Assemble:
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Pour the caramel over the chilled cheesecake layer.
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Refrigerate for an additional 30 minutes to set.
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Notes
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If using store-bought caramel sauce, warm it up slightly before pouring it over the cheesecake.
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For a salted caramel twist, sprinkle a little sea salt over the caramel before serving.
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This recipe can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for 4–5 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American