Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of cheesecake and caramel, this recipe is sure to win your heart. The buttery graham cracker crust is the perfect base for the creamy cheesecake filling that’s rich and indulgent. Topped off with a smooth caramel sauce and a sprinkle of sea salt, these bars deliver that sweet-salty combination that everyone loves. Not only is the flavor combination irresistible, but the texture is also spot-on—creamy, dense, and absolutely satisfying. Plus, the recipe is easy to make, and it requires no fancy techniques, making it accessible for bakers of all levels.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup sour cream

For the Caramel Topping:

• 1 cup caramel sauce
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• Sea salt for sprinkling (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust.
3. Bake the crust for 8 minutes, then remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
4. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Add the sour cream and mix until fully combined.
6. Pour the cheesecake filling over the pre-baked crust and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are slightly puffed. Turn off the oven and let the bars cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour.
8. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to fully set.
9. For the caramel topping, heat the caramel sauce and heavy cream in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring until smooth and combined.
10. Pour the caramel sauce over the chilled cheesecake bars. Sprinkle with sea salt if desired. Use the parchment paper to lift the bars out of the pan and cut into squares.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 4 hours 50 minutes
• Servings: 12 servings

Variations

• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle some melted chocolate over the caramel for a decadent twist.
• Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, to the crust for extra texture.
• Fruit Topping: Top with fresh berries such as raspberries or strawberries for a fruity contrast to the caramel.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover caramel cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. These bars can be enjoyed chilled straight from the fridge, or you can warm them slightly in the microwave for a few seconds if you prefer them a little softer.

FAQs

Can I use a store-bought caramel sauce for this recipe?

Yes, using a store-bought caramel sauce works perfectly for this recipe. Just be sure to choose a high-quality one for the best flavor.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars need to chill for several hours, so they can be made the day before and refrigerated overnight. This also helps the flavors to set.

Can I use a different type of crust?

Yes, you can experiment with a different crust, such as an Oreo crust or a shortbread crust, for a variation in flavor.

What if I don’t have heavy cream for the caramel topping?

You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, but the caramel will be slightly thinner and less rich.

Can I freeze the caramel cheesecake bars?

Yes, you can freeze these bars for up to 2 months. To freeze, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Let them thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

How can I tell when the cheesecake filling is done?

The cheesecake is done when the center is set but still slightly jiggles when shaken. The edges should be slightly puffed.

Can I make these bars in a different pan size?

If you use a different pan size, keep in mind that the baking time may need to be adjusted. A smaller pan will result in thicker bars, while a larger pan will make them thinner.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese or sour cream?

Yes, you can substitute low-fat cream cheese or sour cream in this recipe for a lighter version, though the texture and flavor may be slightly different.

Can I add flavoring to the cheesecake filling?

Yes! You can add a teaspoon of lemon zest or almond extract to the filling for a subtle flavor twist.

Is the sea salt necessary for the caramel topping?

The sea salt adds a lovely salty-sweet balance, but it’s optional. If you prefer, you can skip it or use a flavored salt for an extra touch.

Conclusion

These Decadent Caramel Cheesecake Bars are the perfect treat for any cheesecake lover. With a rich, creamy filling, a buttery graham cracker crust, and a sweet caramel drizzle, this dessert is sure to impress. Whether you’re serving them at a party or just treating yourself, these bars are bound to become a favorite. The best part? You can easily make them ahead of time and enjoy them whenever you crave something indulgent.