When you think of a dessert that combines the rich flavors of coffee and the sweetness of caramel, what comes to mind? If you’re imagining something heavenly that makes your taste buds do a happy dance, you’re spot on! Coffee Caramel Cheesecake Bars are like biting into a little piece of paradise wrapped in a buttery crust. With every bite, you’ll relish the smooth creaminess of the cheesecake dancing with hints of bold coffee and sweet caramel.
Picture this: it’s 3 PM on a rainy afternoon. You hear the patter of raindrops outside while you’re cozied up on the couch with a warm blanket. What could make this moment even sweeter? A plate of Coffee Caramel Cheesecake Bars! They are not just treats; they are an experience, perfect for sharing (or hiding away from your family). Trust me; once you take one bite, you’ll be counting down the minutes until your next slice!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Coffee Caramel Cheesecake Bars offer an easy preparation method that anyone can master
- The flavor profile is a dreamy combination of bitter and sweet that will tantalize your taste buds
- Their gorgeous layered appearance makes them perfect for impressing guests at any gathering
- Plus, they are versatile enough to be enjoyed any time of day – breakfast or dessert; who’s judging?
I remember the first time I made these bars for my friends during game night. Their delighted faces as they took their first bites were priceless!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Graham Cracker Crumbs: Use finely crushed graham crackers for a crunchy yet tender base that complements the creamy filling.
- Unsalted Butter: Melted butter adds richness to the crust while helping it hold together perfectly.
- Cream Cheese: Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for a smooth cheesecake texture without lumps.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar balances out the flavors and sweetens the cream cheese filling beautifully.
- Eggs: Room temperature eggs help create a fluffy texture in your cheesecake mixture.
- Coffee Extract: This ingredient infuses your bars with deep coffee flavor without needing brewed coffee.
- Caramel Sauce: Use store-bought or homemade sauce to drizzle over each bar for added decadence.
- Salt: A pinch enhances all flavors and balances sweetness in both crust and filling.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Getting started on these Coffee Caramel Cheesecake Bars is as easy as pie—well, easier than pie since there’s no baking involved in some steps!
Prepare Your Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Create The Crust: In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until combined. Press firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan until flat and even.
Mix The Filling: In another bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Mix in eggs one at a time before adding coffee extract.
Add The Filling To The Crust: Pour your creamy mixture over the prepared crust and spread evenly using a spatula. This should look like pure silk.
Bake To Perfection: Bake in preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until the center is set but slightly jiggly. It will firm up as it cools.
Top With Caramel Sauce: Once cooled completely, drizzle generously with caramel sauce before slicing into bars. Decorate with extra crumbs if desired; presentation counts!
Feel free to enjoy these delights chilled or at room temperature—either way works wonderfully!
Now you’ve created luscious Coffee Caramel Cheesecake Bars worthy of any occasion!
You Must Know
- These Coffee Caramel Cheesecake Bars are not just delicious; they blend rich coffee flavors with creamy cheesecake
- The texture is smooth, and the caramel adds a delightful sweetness
- Perfect for sharing or indulging, these bars are a showstopper at any gathering
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the crust while preheating your oven. Then, whip up the cheesecake filling while the crust bakes to save time.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different flavored coffees or infuse your cheesecake with spices like cinnamon for added warmth.
Storing & Reheating
Store these Coffee Caramel Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container in the fridge. For best results, enjoy them chilled or at room temperature.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To prevent cracking, ensure your cream cheese is softened before mixing
- Avoid overbaking; the center should remain slightly jiggly
- Allow bars to cool completely before slicing for neat edges
The first time I made these bars, my friends devoured them in minutes, leaving me with only crumbs and a deep appreciation for coffee desserts!
FAQ
Can I use decaf coffee for these Coffee Caramel Cheesecake Bars?
Yes, decaf coffee works perfectly without sacrificing flavor.
How long can I store these cheesecake bars?
They can be stored in the fridge for up to five days.
Can I freeze Coffee Caramel Cheesecake Bars?
Definitely! They freeze well for up to three months; just thaw before serving.
Coffee Caramel Cheesecake Bars
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 9 servings
Description
Indulge in these Coffee Caramel Cheesecake Bars, where creamy cheesecake meets bold coffee and luscious caramel—an irresistible treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Unsalted butter
- Cream cheese
- Sugar
- Eggs
- Coffee extract
- Caramel sauce
- Salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a crust.
- In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in coffee extract.
- Pour cheesecake filling over the crust, spreading evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
- Allow to cool completely before drizzling with caramel sauce and slicing into bars.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Enhance flavor by experimenting with flavored coffees or adding cinnamon for warmth. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days or freeze for up to three months.