Description
Caramel Chocolate Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients:
Crust:
2 cups crushed graham crackers
1/2 cup melted butter
1/4 cup granulated sugar
Cheesecake Layer:
2 cups cream cheese (softened)
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup whipped cream
Topping:
1 cup caramel sauce
1 cup chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Prepare Crust: Mix graham crackers, melted butter, and sugar. Press into the base of a square baking pan. Chill for 15 minutes.
2. Make Cheesecake Layer: Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Fold in whipped cream. Spread evenly over the crust.
3. Add Toppings: Drizzle caramel sauce over the cheesecake layer and sprinkle chocolate chips.
4. Chill & Serve: Refrigerate for 3-4 hours. Slice into bars and serve.
#CaramelChocolateBars
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8 or 9×9 inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on two sides for easy removal. This is crucial for clean bars.
2. Make & Set the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the finely crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and granulated sugar until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this firmly and evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Use the bottom of a glass to compact it. Chill for at least 15 minutes.
3. Create the Filling: Using a hand mixer or stand mixer with the paddle attachment, beat the softened cream cheese on medium speed until completely smooth and lump-free, about 2 minutes. Scrape down the bowl. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and beat again until fully combined and creamy.
4. Fold in Whipped Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the cream to stiff peaks. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula until no white streaks remain. Be careful not to deflate the mixture.
5. Assemble: Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the chilled crust. Smooth the top with an offset spatula.
6. Add Toppings & Chill: Drizzle the caramel sauce in lines or a swirl pattern over the filling. Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly across the top. Refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours, or until completely set. For best results, chill overnight.
7. Slice & Serve: Use the parchment paper to lift the entire block out of the pan. Place on a cutting board and use a sharp knife, wiped clean between cuts, to slice into bars.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these decadent bars chilled. For an elegant touch, plate each bar and add a final drizzle of warm caramel sauce and a sprinkle of sea salt just before serving. They pair wonderfully with a cup of strong coffee, a glass of cold milk, or a dessert wine. For a party, cut them into smaller, bite-sized pieces.
How-to Summary
Create a graham cracker crust, chill it, then top with a fluffy no-bake cheesecake filling made from cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and folded-in whipped cream. Finish with a generous drizzle of caramel sauce and a sprinkle of chocolate chips. Chill thoroughly until firm, then slice into bars.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use store-bought whipped topping instead of whipping cream?
A: Yes, you can substitute 1 cup of thawed frozen whipped topping (like Cool Whip) for the whipped cream. Fold it in gently at the end.
Q: How long do these bars last in the fridge?
A> Stored in an airtight container, they will keep well for 3-4 days. The crust may soften slightly over time.
Q: Can I freeze these cheesecake bars?
A> Absolutely. Freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container. They will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Q: My cream cheese filling is lumpy. What went wrong?
A> This happens if the cream cheese is not fully softened to room temperature before mixing. Ensure it is soft to the touch for a perfectly smooth filling.
Q: Can I use a different type of chocolate?
A> Yes, feel free to use milk, dark, or semi-sweet chocolate chips. Chopped chocolate bars or chocolate chunks also work wonderfully for a more rustic look.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Cold Cream Cheese: This is the #1 cause of a lumpy filling. Let it sit out for at least an hour.
- Under-whipping the Cream: Ensure your whipped cream reaches stiff peaks so it provides structure to the filling.
- Not Chilling Long Enough: Cutting too soon will result in messy bars. Patience is key for clean slices.
- Pressing the Crust Unevenly: An uneven base leads to uneven filling distribution. Press firmly and evenly.
- Overmixing After Adding Whipped Cream: Fold gently to maintain the airy, light texture of the cheesecake layer.
Conclusion
These Caramel Chocolate Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate no-bake dessert, combining a buttery crust, a luxuriously creamy filling, and the perfect sweet and salty topping. They are surprisingly simple to make yet deliver an impressive, restaurant-quality result. By following this enhanced guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’re guaranteed a flawless treat that will be the star of any gathering. Enjoy the rich, satisfying combination of flavors and textures in every bite.