Philly Caramel Cheesecake Bars: A Decadent Delight Recipe

These Philly Caramel Cheesecake Bars are a symphony of textures and flavors. Imagine a buttery, crumbly graham cracker crust topped with a rich, creamy cheesecake filling, swirled with decadent caramel, and finished with a delightful sprinkle of sea salt. Each bite is an explosion of sweetness and tang, a perfect balance that will leave you craving more. This recipe is perfect for parties, holidays, or any occasion that calls for a show-stopping dessert. While they look impressive, these bars are surprisingly easy to make, even for novice bakers. This comprehensive guide will walk you through each step, ensuring your Philly Caramel Cheesecake Bars are a resounding success.

Why This Recipe Works

* **The Perfect Crust:** The graham cracker crust provides a sturdy and flavorful base that complements the creamy cheesecake filling. The addition of melted butter and sugar ensures a perfectly crisp and golden-brown crust.
* **Creamy Cheesecake Filling:** The combination of Philadelphia cream cheese, sour cream, and sugar creates a velvety smooth and tangy cheesecake filling that is simply irresistible.
* **Decadent Caramel Swirl:** The caramel swirl adds a touch of sweetness and richness that elevates these bars to another level. Using a high-quality caramel sauce is key to achieving the best flavor.
* **Sea Salt Finish:** A sprinkle of sea salt on top enhances the sweetness of the caramel and adds a delightful salty-sweet contrast.
* **Easy to Make:** Despite their impressive appearance, these bars are surprisingly easy to make. The recipe requires minimal ingredients and equipment, and the instructions are straightforward and easy to follow.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

* 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 full sheets)
* 1/4 cup granulated sugar
* 6 tablespoons (3 ounces) unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

* 24 ounces Philadelphia cream cheese, softened to room temperature
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 1/2 cup sour cream
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Caramel Swirl & Topping:

* 1 cup high-quality caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
* Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling

Equipment You’ll Need

* 9×13 inch baking pan
* Parchment paper
* Mixing bowls
* Electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer)
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Offset spatula or spoon
* Toothpick or skewer

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This will make it easy to lift the bars out of the pan later.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix well until all the crumbs are moistened and the mixture resembles wet sand.
3. Press the graham cracker mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. You can use the bottom of a measuring cup to help press it down evenly.
4. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly while you prepare the cheesecake filling.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Make sure there are no lumps.
2. Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue to beat until well combined.
3. Add the sour cream and vanilla extract and beat until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Again, avoid overmixing, as this can incorporate too much air into the batter and cause the cheesecake to crack during baking.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake the Cheesecake Bars

1. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly with an offset spatula or spoon.
2. Warm the caramel sauce slightly in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or until it is easily pourable. This will make it easier to swirl.
3. Drizzle the warmed caramel sauce over the cheesecake filling in a random pattern.
4. Use a toothpick or skewer to swirl the caramel sauce into the cheesecake filling. Be careful not to over-swirl, as this can muddy the colors. Aim for a marbled effect.
5. Bake the cheesecake bars in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly wobbly. The cheesecake should still have a slight jiggle.
6. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake bars cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour. This will help prevent cracking.
7. Remove the cheesecake bars from the oven and let them cool completely at room temperature.
8. Once cooled, cover the baking pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, before cutting into bars. This will allow the cheesecake to set completely and make it easier to cut.

Step 4: Cut and Serve the Cheesecake Bars

1. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the cheesecake bars out of the baking pan.
2. Place the cheesecake bars on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut them into squares or rectangles.
3. Sprinkle the top of the cheesecake bars with flaky sea salt just before serving.
4. Serve the Philly Caramel Cheesecake Bars chilled and enjoy!

Tips for Success

* **Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese:** Softened cream cheese is essential for a smooth and creamy cheesecake filling. Make sure to take the cream cheese out of the refrigerator at least 1-2 hours before you start baking.
* **Don’t Overmix the Batter:** Overmixing the cheesecake batter can incorporate too much air, which can cause the cheesecake to crack during baking. Mix until just combined.
* **Bake at a Low Temperature:** Baking the cheesecake at a low temperature helps to prevent cracking. Also, the gradual cooling in the oven further helps to prevent the cheesecake from cracking.
* **Cool Completely Before Refrigerating:** Allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating. This will prevent condensation from forming on the surface of the cheesecake.
* **Refrigerate for at Least 4 Hours:** Refrigerating the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, allows it to set completely and makes it easier to cut.
* **Use a Warm Knife to Cut:** To cut the cheesecake bars neatly, dip a sharp knife in hot water and wipe it dry before each cut. This will help to prevent the cheesecake from sticking to the knife.
* **Use High-Quality Caramel Sauce:** The quality of the caramel sauce will affect the flavor of the cheesecake bars. Use a high-quality store-bought caramel sauce or make your own.
* **Adjust Sweetness to Your Preference:** If you prefer a less sweet cheesecake, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the filling.

Variations and Additions

* **Chocolate Crust:** Substitute chocolate graham crackers for regular graham crackers in the crust for a chocolatey twist.
* **Nutty Crust:** Add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the graham cracker crust for added flavor and texture.
* **Espresso Powder:** Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the cheesecake filling for a mocha flavor.
* **Chocolate Chips:** Fold chocolate chips into the cheesecake filling for a chocolate chip cheesecake bar.
* **Peanut Butter Swirl:** Swirl peanut butter into the cheesecake filling along with the caramel sauce for a peanut butter caramel cheesecake bar.
* **Add a Ganache Topping:** Drizzle a chocolate ganache over the cooled cheesecake bars for an extra layer of decadence.
* **Different Flavored Caramel:** Experiment with different flavored caramel sauces, such as salted caramel, vanilla caramel, or bourbon caramel.
* **Fruit Topping:** Top the cheesecake bars with fresh fruit, such as berries or sliced peaches, for a refreshing twist.

Serving Suggestions

These Philly Caramel Cheesecake Bars are delicious on their own, but they can also be served with a variety of accompaniments.

* **Whipped Cream:** A dollop of whipped cream adds a light and airy touch.
* **Ice Cream:** Serve the cheesecake bars with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream for a decadent dessert.
* **Fresh Fruit:** A side of fresh fruit provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cheesecake.
* **Chocolate Sauce:** Drizzle chocolate sauce over the cheesecake bars for an extra layer of indulgence.
* **Coffee or Tea:** Pair the cheesecake bars with a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon treat.

Storage Instructions

* **Refrigerate:** Store the cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
* **Freeze:** The cheesecake bars can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per bar)

* Calories: 350-450
* Fat: 25-35g
* Saturated Fat: 15-20g
* Cholesterol: 100-150mg
* Sodium: 200-300mg
* Carbohydrates: 30-40g
* Sugar: 20-30g
* Protein: 5-7g

*Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary depending on the ingredients used and portion sizes.*

Troubleshooting Tips

* **Cracked Cheesecake:** Cracking can occur if the cheesecake is baked at too high of a temperature or if it is overbaked. To prevent cracking, bake the cheesecake at a low temperature and cool it slowly in the oven with the door ajar. If the cheesecake does crack, don’t worry, it will still taste delicious!
* **Soggy Crust:** A soggy crust can occur if the crust is not baked long enough or if the filling is too wet. To prevent a soggy crust, bake the crust until it is lightly golden brown and make sure to drain any excess liquid from the filling before pouring it over the crust.
* **Lumpy Filling:** A lumpy filling can occur if the cream cheese is not softened enough or if the batter is overmixed. To prevent a lumpy filling, make sure to use room temperature cream cheese and mix the batter until just combined.
* **Difficulty Cutting:** Difficulty cutting can occur if the cheesecake is not chilled enough. To make it easier to cut, chill the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, before cutting. Also, use a warm knife to cut the cheesecake.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

**Q: Can I use a different type of crust?**
A: Yes, you can use a different type of crust, such as an Oreo cookie crust or a shortbread crust. Just adjust the baking time accordingly.

**Q: Can I use a different type of caramel sauce?**
A: Yes, you can use a different type of caramel sauce, such as salted caramel sauce or homemade caramel sauce.

**Q: Can I make these cheesecake bars ahead of time?**
A: Yes, you can make these cheesecake bars ahead of time. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

**Q: How do I know when the cheesecake bars are done?**
A: The cheesecake bars are done when the edges are set and the center is slightly wobbly. The cheesecake should still have a slight jiggle.

**Q: Can I use a water bath to bake the cheesecake bars?**
A: While a water bath is often used for full-sized cheesecakes to promote even baking and prevent cracking, it’s generally not necessary for cheesecake bars. The shorter baking time and smaller size make them less prone to cracking. However, if you prefer to use a water bath, you can do so.

Conclusion

These Philly Caramel Cheesecake Bars are a truly decadent and irresistible treat. With their buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and luscious caramel swirl, they are sure to impress your family and friends. This recipe is easy to follow, and the bars can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake up a batch of these amazing Philly Caramel Cheesecake Bars. Enjoy!