Description

Indulge in the irresistible flavors of our Caramel Cheeasecake Bars, where buttery graham cracker crust meets creamy cheesecake filling and a luscious caramel topping. Perfect for any occasion, these bars promise to satisfy your dessert cravings with every delicious bite.

Ingredients

Graham Cracker Crust:

2 cups graham cracker crumbs
¼ cup sugar
½ cup butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling:

8 ounces cream cheese
1 ½ cups sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
4 eggs
½ cup sour cream

Caramel Topping:

½ cup brown sugar
6 tablespoons butter
14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
2 tablespoons corn syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Preparing the Crust:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a large bowl until well combined.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9 x 13 inch baking dish lined with nonstick cooking spray. Set aside.

Making the Cheesecake Filling:

In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Mix in sour cream until the batter is smooth and creamy.
Pour the cheesecake mixture over the prepared crust, spreading it evenly.

Baking the Bars:

Bake for 50 minutes in the preheated oven until the cheesecake is set and slightly golden on top.
Turn off the oven, open the door slightly, and let the cheesecake cool in the warm oven for 15 minutes.
Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely for about an hour.

Preparing the Caramel Topping:

Combine brown sugar and butter in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring continuously until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves.
Whisk in sweetened condensed milk, corn syrup, and vanilla extract. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly.
Use a candy thermometer to boil the mixture until it reaches 225°F (or soft ball stage in cold water test).
Let the caramel cool in the pan for 3-5 minutes, then pour it over the cooled cheesecake.
Smooth the caramel evenly and allow it to set until completely cool.

Final Steps:

Once cooled, cut the cheesecake into squares using a sharp knife.
Serve and enjoy these delectable Caramel Cheesecake Bars with friends and family!

Details of Caramel Cheesecake Bars

Prep Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 16

Notes

Enjoy your Caramel Cheesecake Bars to the fullest with these helpful serving and storage tips:

Serving Tips:

Room Temperature: For the best texture and flavor, let the cheesecake bars sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving.
Garnish: Sprinkle a light dusting of cocoa powder or powdered sugar over the bars just before serving for an elegant touch.
Accompaniments: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or fresh berries on the side for added freshness and contrast.
Cutting Tips: Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between cuts to achieve clean edges when slicing the bars.
Individual Servings: Consider cutting the bars into smaller pieces for bite-sized portions when serving at parties or gatherings.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: Store any leftover cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Ensure they are well-covered to prevent absorption of other odors.
Freezing: To freeze, wrap the bars individually in plastic wrap and then in foil. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1-2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Avoid Direct Sunlight: Keep the bars away from direct sunlight and heat sources to maintain their texture and prevent the caramel from melting.
Reheating: If desired, you can gently reheat individual servings in the microwave on low power for a few seconds to soften the caramel topping.
Storing Unbaked Bars: If preparing ahead, you can store the unbaked bars (without the caramel topping) in the refrigerator overnight. Add the caramel topping just before serving for the freshest taste.

Additional Tips:

Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the bars a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together for an even more delicious treat.
Transporting: When transporting the bars, place them in a secure container to prevent them from shifting or getting squished.
Refreshing Leftovers: If the crust becomes slightly soggy over time, place the bars in a preheated oven at 350°F for a few minutes to crisp up the crust again.
Customization: Experiment with different toppings such as chocolate drizzle, chopped nuts, or sea salt flakes for a personalized touch.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Caramel Cheesecake Bars remain fresh, flavorful, and ready to delight whenever you’re craving a sweet treat. Enjoy the creamy goodness and decadent caramel flavor with every bite!