Caramel Cheesecake Bars

### **How to Make Caramel Cheesecake Bars**

**Step 1: Prepare the Crust**
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal of the bars later.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture holds together when pressed.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form a crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.

**Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling**
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream until everything is fully combined.
3. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled graham cracker crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.

**Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake Bars**
1. Bake the cheesecake at 325°F (163°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Be careful not to overbake—if the center is too firm, the bars may crack.
2. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for about 30 minutes. Then, transfer it to the fridge and chill for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best results).

**Step 4: Make the Caramel Topping**
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the brown sugar and cook for about 2 minutes, allowing the sugar to dissolve and the mixture to come to a simmer.
2. Carefully add the heavy cream to the saucepan, stirring continuously. Continue to cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the caramel thickens slightly.
3. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt (if using). Let the caramel cool slightly before pouring it over the chilled cheesecake.

**Step 5: Assemble and Serve**
1. Once the cheesecake has cooled and the caramel has thickened, drizzle the caramel topping evenly over the top of the cheesecake.
2. Slice the cheesecake into bars and serve chilled. For an extra touch, garnish with a sprinkle of sea salt or chopped nuts if desired.

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### **Tips for Perfect Caramel Cheesecake Bars**

– **Use Full-Fat Cream Cheese:** For the best texture and flavor, use full-fat cream cheese. Light or fat-free cream cheese may alter the consistency of the filling.
– **Chill the Cheesecake Properly:** Be sure to let the cheesecake cool and set completely before cutting. Chilling it for at least 2 hours will help the bars hold their shape when sliced.
– **Make Ahead:** These caramel cheesecake bars are perfect for making ahead. They store well in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days, or you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container.
– **Add a Twist:** For added flavor, consider drizzling melted chocolate over the caramel or topping the bars with crushed nuts like pecans or walnuts. You can also experiment with adding a layer of chocolate ganache or a swirl of fruit puree.

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### **Why You’ll Fall in Love with These Bars**

Caramel Cheesecake Bars are the ideal dessert when you want something that combines the richness of cheesecake with the indulgence of caramel. The buttery graham cracker crust provides the perfect base, while the creamy cheesecake filling offers a smooth, velvety texture. The homemade caramel topping adds a sweet, gooey finish that’s simply irresistible.

These bars are perfect for a family gathering, a holiday dessert table, or as a special treat to satisfy your sweet cravings. With their creamy texture and sweet caramel goodness, these bars are bound to become a new favorite dessert in your recipe collection!

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### **Conclusion**

If you’re looking for a dessert that brings both sophistication and comfort to the table, **Caramel Cheesecake Bars** are the perfect choice. With their rich, creamy filling, sweet caramel topping, and easy-to-make nature, they’re sure to be a hit at any occasion.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to a sweet indulgence, these cheesecake bars are a must-try. Whip up a batch today and watch as they disappear in no time!