Description
These Elegant Coffee Caramel Cheesecake Bars combine a crisp graham cracker crust with a smooth, creamy espresso-infused cheesecake filling, topped with luscious caramel sauce and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. Perfect for dessert lovers who appreciate a sophisticated blend of coffee and caramel flavors in a convenient bar form.
Ingredients
Scale
For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the caramel topping:
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Flaky sea salt (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to create the crust layer. Bake for 8 minutes, then remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly.
- Make the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the granulated sugar and mix well until combined. Beat in the eggs one at a time, incorporating each fully before adding the next. Stir in the sour cream, all-purpose flour, instant espresso powder, and vanilla extract, mixing until the filling is smooth and homogenous.
- Bake the cheesecake bars: Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the slightly cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the center is just set and has a slight jiggle when you gently shake the pan. Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate the bars for at least 4 hours or overnight to set completely.
- Add the caramel topping and serve: When ready to serve, pour the caramel sauce evenly over the chilled cheesecake bars. Spread gently to cover the surface and sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars from the pan, then cut them into 16 squares. Serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, try using a chocolate cookie crust instead of graham crackers.
- Adjust the amount of instant espresso powder to make the coffee flavor lighter or stronger according to your preference.
- These bars are best served chilled for a refreshing dessert experience.
