The aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafts through the air, mixing with the sweet scent of caramel as it dances around your kitchen. These Coffee Caramel Cheesecake Bars promise a flavor explosion that will make your taste buds sing and your heart skip a beat. Imagine biting into a creamy layer of cheesecake topped with luscious caramel—pure bliss on a plate.
I remember the first time I made these delightful bars; I had friends over for game night. Let’s just say they disappeared faster than you could say “second helping”! Every bite was met with gasps of delight and requests for the recipe. They’re perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying solo while binge-watching your favorite series (no judgment here).
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Coffee Caramel Cheesecake Bars are incredibly easy to prepare, making them ideal for both novice bakers and seasoned pros
- The rich coffee flavor pairs beautifully with silky caramel for a delectable treat
- Visually stunning with their layered presentation, these bars could easily steal the show at any dessert table
- They’re versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round or tailored to special occasions like birthdays or holidays
When I first shared these gems with friends, their smiles were priceless as they savored every bite.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Graham Cracker Crumbs: Use finely crushed crumbs for a sturdy crust that holds together well and adds great texture.
- Unsalted Butter: Melted butter binds the crust perfectly; opt for unsalted for better control over seasoning.
- Cream Cheese: Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy blending and creamy consistency.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the filling; you can reduce it slightly if you prefer less sweetness.
- Eggs: Use large eggs; they help to create that perfect creamy cheesecake texture when baked.
- Coffee Extract: This enhances the coffee flavor in the cheesecake; use high-quality extract for best results.
- Caramel Sauce: Store-bought or homemade works great; it adds richness and sweetness on top of the cheesecake layer.
- Sea Salt: A pinch of sea salt enhances all flavors and balances the sweetness beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Create the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal later. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until evenly combined.
Press Down Firmly: Compact the crumb mixture into the bottom of your prepared pan using a flat-bottomed glass or measuring cup. Bake this crust in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes until lightly golden and fragrant.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth using an electric mixer on medium speed. Gradually add sugar while continuing to mix until fully incorporated and creamy.
Add Eggs & Flavoring: Beat in eggs one at a time followed by coffee extract; ensure each egg is fully blended before adding the next. This creates that dreamy texture everyone loves in cheesecakes.
Pour & Bake Again: Pour this luscious cream cheese mixture over your baked crust evenly. Return to the oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes until set but slightly jiggly in the center—it will firm up as it cools.
Top it Off!: Once cooled completely at room temperature, drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cheesecake layer generously. Sprinkle sea salt on top to enhance flavors further before chilling in the refrigerator for at least two hours before slicing.
Enjoy creating these delightful Coffee Caramel Cheesecake Bars! Your friends will be begging you to share more recipes after they try these treats!
You Must Know
- Coffee Caramel Cheesecake Bars combine rich flavors that melt in your mouth
- The aroma of coffee and caramel wafts through the kitchen, making everyone eager for a bite
- These bars are perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, surprising even the most discerning dessert lovers
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the crust, then mix the cheesecake filling while it bakes. This sequence ensures everything is fresh and ready to enjoy at once.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out coffee for espresso or add nuts for extra crunch. Personalizing these bars makes them uniquely yours!
Storing & Reheating
Store cooled bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Reheat gently in the microwave before serving for that fresh-baked taste.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the creamiest cheesecake, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing
- Avoid overbaking; it should slightly jiggle in the center when done
- Use high-quality coffee for deeper flavor and avoid instant varieties
Creating these Coffee Caramel Cheesecake Bars was a game-changer during my last family gathering, with compliments still echoing in my ears!
FAQ
Can I use decaf coffee for Coffee Caramel Cheesecake Bars?
Absolutely! Decaf coffee gives you flavor without extra caffeine jitters.
How can I make these bars gluten-free?
Simply substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend in the crust.
What’s the best way to serve Coffee Caramel Cheesecake Bars?
Serve chilled with whipped cream and drizzled caramel sauce for an indulgent treat.
Coffee Caramel Cheesecake Bars
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 16 servings
Description
Coffee Caramel Cheesecake Bars are a luscious treat combining rich coffee flavor with creamy caramel, perfect for any gathering or a sweet indulgence at home.
Ingredients
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Unsalted butter
- Cream cheese
- Granulated sugar
- Eggs
- Coffee extract
- Caramel sauce
- Sea salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter, then press into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes until golden.
- Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually mix in granulated sugar.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then incorporate coffee extract.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the baked crust and bake for 25-30 minutes until slightly jiggly in the center.
- Once cooled, drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cheesecake and sprinkle with sea salt. Chill in the refrigerator for at least two hours before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (60g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
