Imagine sinking your fork into a luscious Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bar, where the creamy filling dances on your tongue and the crunchy crust gives a satisfying crunch. The sweet aroma of butterscotch wafts through the kitchen, instantly transporting you to dessert paradise. These bars are more than just a treat; they’re a delightful escape that promises to tickle your taste buds and bring smiles all around. For more inspiration, check out this more cheesecake ideas recipe.
Every bite of these heavenly bars reminds me of summer picnics with family, where desserts always stole the show. I can still hear my cousin squealing in delight when she took her first bite. Perfect for any occasion—birthdays, barbeques, or even Tuesday night Netflix binges—these Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars are an irresistible indulgence that will make your heart sing. For more inspiration, check out this delicious dessert recipes recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars are incredibly easy to whip up, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor
- Their rich and creamy texture is perfectly complemented by the crunchy graham cracker crust
- The gorgeous layers make them visually stunning, ideal for impressing guests or treating yourself
- Versatile enough for any occasion, they can be enjoyed as a simple dessert or an extravagant celebration treat
I once brought these bars to a family gathering, and let’s just say they disappeared faster than you can say “dessert!”
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Graham Cracker Crumbs: Use finely crushed graham crackers for a perfect base that holds together beautifully.
- Unsalted Butter: Melted butter binds the crumbs together and adds richness; don’t skip this step!
- Brown Sugar: Choose light brown sugar for a hint of caramel flavor that beautifully complements the butterscotch.
- Cream Cheese: Soften it at room temperature; it blends seamlessly to create that dreamy texture.
- Butterscotch Sauce: Use store-bought or homemade; this is the star ingredient that elevates everything!
- Granulated Sugar: Just a touch balances the sweetness and enhances flavors in the cheesecake filling.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract adds warmth and depth to the overall flavor profile.
- Eggs: Large eggs help bind the ingredients together and give structure to our cheesecake bars.
- Whipped Cream (optional): For topping, it adds an extra layer of indulgence if you want to go all out.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Create the Crust: In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar. Mix until fully combined and resembles wet sand before pressing firmly into your prepared pan.
Make the Filling: In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add granulated sugar while mixing until well incorporated. Then blend in butterscotch sauce and vanilla extract until creamy.
Add the Eggs: Carefully incorporate one egg at a time into the mixture while mixing on low speed. Don’t overmix; we want our bars fluffy!
Bake It Up!: Pour the cheesecake mixture over your graham cracker crust evenly. Bake in preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until edges are slightly set but center is still jiggly.
Cool & Chill!: Allow your cheesecake bars to cool at room temperature before refrigerating for at least two hours (or overnight). This helps them set perfectly!
Now you’ve got yourself an incredible batch of Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars! Enjoy every decadent bite!
You Must Know
- Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate treat that combines creamy, dreamy cheesecake with a crunchy graham cracker crust
- Their irresistible sweetness and buttery flavor will make your mouth water just thinking about them
- Perfect for parties, picnics, or just because you want dessert!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve maximum deliciousness, pre-bake your graham cracker crust first before adding the cheesecake filling. This ensures a crispy base that holds up beautifully under the creamy topping.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture. A pinch of sea salt can balance the sweetness wonderfully!
Storing & Reheating
Store these bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. They can be enjoyed cold or warmed slightly in the microwave for that fresh-baked taste.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure your cheesecake bars turn out perfectly every time, use room temperature cream cheese for a smoother batter
- Avoid overmixing to prevent air bubbles, which can lead to cracks during baking
- Lastly, chill thoroughly before cutting for neat slices that impress!
Sharing my first experience making Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars is unforgettable; my friends devoured them so fast I barely got a taste!
FAQ
How long do Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars last in the fridge?
These bars can last up to one week when stored properly in an airtight container.
Can I use different flavored extracts?
Absolutely! Vanilla or almond extract can add delightful variations to your cheesecake flavor profile.
What is the best way to cut cheesecake bars?
Use a hot knife dipped in water for clean, smooth cuts without smearing the layers.
Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approx. 16 servings
Description
Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars are a heavenly dessert that combines a creamy butterscotch filling with a crunchy graham cracker crust. These bars are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, birthday celebration, or just a sweet treat after dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup butterscotch sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- Whipped cream (optional for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared dish to form the crust.
- In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the granulated sugar while mixing, then blend in the butterscotch sauce and vanilla extract until creamy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed until just combined; avoid overmixing.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust and bake for about 25-30 minutes until edges are set but center is still slightly jiggly.
- Allow cooling at room temperature before refrigerating for at least two hours (or overnight) to set.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (60g)
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg