Description
Ingredients:
1 box yellow cake mix
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg
8 oz cream cheese, softened
2 large eggs (for filling)
3½ cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
Optional: pinch of sea salt for garnish
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, mix the cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg until thick and crumbly. Press evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
In another bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add 2 eggs, vanilla extract, powdered sugar, and caramel sauce. Mix until silky and well combined.
Pour the creamy caramel filling over the crust, spreading it evenly.
Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the edges are golden and the center is set but still slightly gooey.
Cool completely, then drizzle with warm caramel sauce and sprinkle a touch of sea salt if desired.
Slice into luscious bars with buttery crusts, creamy caramel filling, and a melt-in-your-mouth texture that tastes like pure dessert heaven.
Cooking Time: 15 min prep + 40 min bake | Servings: 16 bars | Calories: ~310 per bar
16h
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect bars every time. First, ensure all ingredients, especially the cream cheese and eggs, are at room temperature for a smooth filling. When making the crust, mix until the texture resembles wet sand, then press it firmly and evenly into the pan using the bottom of a measuring cup. For the filling, beat the cream cheese alone for a full minute until completely smooth before adding other ingredients. This prevents lumps. When adding the powdered sugar, do so gradually to avoid a cloud of sugar dust. After baking, the center should still have a slight jiggle; it will set as it cools. Cooling completely in the pan is non-negotiable for clean slices.
Serving Suggestions
These decadent caramel cheesecake bars are versatile. For an elegant dessert, serve a small bar on a plate with a dollop of freshly whipped cream and a few flakes of sea salt. They pair wonderfully with a cup of strong coffee or a glass of cold milk. For a festive touch during the holidays, sprinkle with chopped toasted pecans or a dusting of cinnamon. They can also be dressed up with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and an extra warm caramel drizzle for the ultimate indulgence.
How-to Summary
In brief: Prepare a crust from cake mix, butter, and an egg, pressing it into a lined pan. Create a filling by beating softened cream cheese with eggs, powdered sugar, vanilla, and caramel sauce. Pour the filling over the crust and bake at 350°F for 35-40 minutes until set. Cool completely, then drizzle with more caramel, add salt if desired, and slice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a homemade cake mix instead of a box?
Yes. Use 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 cups sugar, 1 tbsp baking powder, and 1/2 tsp salt. Combine with the melted butter and egg as directed.
How should I store these bars, and how long do they last?
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge before serving.
My filling cracked. What happened?
Cracking is often from overmixing (incorporating too much air) or overbaking. Ensure you mix just until combined and remove the pan when the center is still slightly jiggly.
Can I use a different sauce?
Absolutely. Chocolate sauce or dulce de leche are excellent substitutes for the caramel, creating a different but equally delicious flavor profile.
Why is my crust soggy?
A soggy bottom crust usually means the filling was overmixed or too thin. Ensure your butter is just melted, not hot, and mix the crust until it’s crumbly, not pasty.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Cold Ingredients: Cold cream cheese and eggs will lead to a lumpy filling. Plan ahead for room-temperature ingredients.
- Overbaking: This is the top cause of dry, dense bars. The center should be set but still have a slight wobble when you gently shake the pan.
- Skipping the Parchment Paper: Lining the pan is crucial for easy removal and clean slicing. Do not just grease the pan.
- Slicing Before Cooling: Cutting into warm bars will result in a messy presentation. Patience is key for perfect squares.
- Not Pressing the Crust Firmly: A loosely pressed crust will crumble when sliced. Press it down firmly and evenly.
Conclusion
These Caramel Cheesecake Bars masterfully combine the simplicity of a cake mix with the luxurious richness of a cheesecake filling. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create an impressive dessert that is both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. The result is a perfectly balanced treat with a buttery crust, a creamy caramel center, and a delightful salty-sweet finish. They are sure to become a requested favorite for any occasion.