Description

Rich and creamy caramel cheesecake bars with a buttery graham cracker crust, smooth vanilla cheesecake filling, and luscious swirls of caramel for the perfect sweet and slightly salty dessert.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 full crackers)

1/4 cup granulated sugar (for crust)

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup granulated sugar (for filling)

2 large eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

1/2 cup caramel sauce (jarred or homemade), plus more for drizzling

Optional: pinch of flaky sea salt for topping

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides.
In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter until the texture resembles wet sand.
Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
Bake the crust for 8–10 minutes, then allow it to cool slightly.
In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup sugar until smooth and creamy.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in vanilla extract until fully incorporated and smooth.
Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust and smooth the top.
Drizzle caramel sauce over the batter and use a knife or skewer to gently swirl for a marbled effect.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Lift out using parchment overhang, slice into bars, drizzle with extra caramel, and sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired.

Notes

Full-fat cream cheese provides the richest texture and flavor.

Do not overmix the batter to help prevent cracks.

The center should still jiggle slightly when removed from the oven.

Bake in a 9×13-inch pan if doubling the recipe and adjust baking time as needed.

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 320
Sugar: 22g
Sodium: 220mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0.5g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 85mg