Salted Caramel Cheesecake Bars are a delightful dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet and salty flavor of salted caramel. Perfect for any occasion, these bars are easy to make and will impress your family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving something sweet, this recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds!
Ingredients
- For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- For the cheesecake filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- For the salted caramel sauce:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp sea salt
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×9 inch baking pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden, then remove from the oven and let cool.
Step 2: Make the cheesecake filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the sugar and mix until well incorporated. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and spread evenly.
Step 3: Bake the cheesecake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Remove from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until completely chilled.
Step 4: Prepare the salted caramel sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar until it becomes a golden amber color, stirring constantly. Once melted, carefully add the butter and stir until melted. Gradually pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the sea salt. Let cool slightly.
Step 5: Assemble the bars
Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, drizzle the salted caramel sauce over the top. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. For best results, refrigerate for an additional 30 minutes to set the caramel. Cut into squares and serve chilled.
FAQs
Can I make these cheesecake bars ahead of time?
Yes, these Salted Caramel Cheesecake Bars can be made a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator and add the caramel sauce just before serving for the best presentation.
How do I store leftover cheesecake bars?
Store any leftover cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Can I freeze salted caramel cheesecake bars?
Yes, you can freeze these bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
What can I substitute for graham cracker crumbs?
If you don’t have graham cracker crumbs, you can use crushed cookies like Oreos or digestive biscuits as a substitute for the crust.