The aroma wafts through the air like a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine biting into a luscious layer of creamy cheesecake topped with rich caramel and a hint of espresso—these Coffee Caramel Cheesecake Bars are pure bliss in every bite. The moment you take a slice, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to your favorite café, indulging in the best dessert imaginable.
As I whisk together the ingredients for these bars, I can’t help but reminisce about the first time I made them for my friends. Their eyes lit up as they took their first bites, and the room filled with laughter and delight. Perfect for gatherings or just because you deserve a treat; these bars are sure to impress anyone lucky enough to get a taste.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Coffee Caramel Cheesecake Bars are incredibly easy to make without sacrificing flavor or presentation
- The combination of rich coffee and creamy caramel creates a delightful taste explosion
- Visually appealing with swirls of caramel on top, they’re sure to catch attention at any gathering
- Perfect for coffee lovers or anyone looking to satisfy their sweet tooth!
I still remember the day I surprised my family with these bars—they disappeared faster than I could set them on the table!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Graham Cracker Crumbs: Use finely crushed graham crackers for the base; it adds crunch and sweetness.
- Unsalted Butter: Melted butter helps bind the crust together and adds richness.
- Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese is essential for that smooth cheesecake texture.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the filling; adjust according to your preference.
- Espresso Powder: This gives that lovely coffee flavor; choose high-quality espresso for best results.
- Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and creaminess to balance the sweetness.
- Caramel Sauce: Store-bought or homemade; it drizzles beautifully over the top.
- Vanilla Extract: For an extra layer of flavor in both crust and filling.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal later. The aroma of melting butter will be your first hint that something magical is happening.
Create the Crust: In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until evenly mixed. Pat this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish using your fingers or a flat-bottomed glass.
Mix the Filling: In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until smooth. Add in espresso powder, sour cream, and vanilla extract until well incorporated—this step should smell divine!
Add Some Swirl Action!: Pour half of your cheesecake mixture into the crust. Drizzle half of your caramel sauce over this layer—a little goes a long way! Use a spatula or knife to gently swirl them together.
Top it Off!: Pour in the remaining cheesecake mixture and repeat with more caramel sauce on top. Swirl again for that beautiful marbled effect—it’s like art but edible!
Bake It Up!: Place in your preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes until set but slightly jiggly in the center. Let it cool completely before chilling in the fridge for at least two hours—patience is key here!
Once chilled, slice into squares and prepare yourself for compliments coming from every direction! These Coffee Caramel Cheesecake Bars are not only delicious but also visually stunning with their golden caramel swirls atop creamy goodness. Enjoy!
You Must Know
- The rich blend of coffee and caramel in these cheesecake bars creates a deliciously decadent dessert
- Perfect for gatherings, they pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, making them your new go-to treat
- Plus, they’re easier to make than you might think!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the crust first, then whip up the cheesecake filling while it’s baking. This keeps everything efficient and ensures your bars are perfectly layered.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out regular cream cheese for flavored varieties or add a dash of espresso powder for an extra coffee kick. Customize it to suit your taste!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. You can enjoy them chilled or let them sit at room temperature for a bit before serving.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect texture, beat cream cheese until smooth before adding other ingredients
- Make sure your eggs are at room temperature for better blending
- Always let the bars cool completely before slicing to avoid messy edges
I remember the first time I made these Coffee Caramel Cheesecake Bars; my friends devoured them and begged for the recipe. Their smiles were worth every minute spent in the kitchen!
FAQ
Can I use decaf coffee in my cheesecake bars?
Absolutely! Decaf coffee works just as well for those avoiding caffeine.
How long do these bars need to chill?
Let your cheesecake bars chill in the fridge for at least four hours before slicing.
Can I freeze my Coffee Caramel Cheesecake Bars?
Yes, you can freeze them! Just wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container.
Coffee Caramel Cheesecake Bars
Coffee Caramel Cheesecake Bars are a delightful fusion of creamy cheesecake, luscious caramel, and bold coffee flavors. These bars make an indulgent treat perfect for any occasion.
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings
Ingredients
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Unsalted butter
- Cream cheese
- Granulated sugar
- Espresso powder
- Sour cream
- Caramel sauce
- Vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter; press firmly into the bottom of the prepared dish to form the crust.
- In a bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Incorporate espresso powder, sour cream, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Pour half of the cheesecake mixture over the crust. Drizzle half of the caramel sauce on top and gently swirl.
- Repeat with the remaining cheesecake mixture and caramel sauce; swirl again for a marbled effect.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until slightly jiggly in the center. Cool completely before chilling in the fridge for at least two hours.
- Slice into squares and serve chilled or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (60g)
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
