Description

These Elegant Coffee Caramel Cheesecake Bars combine a smooth and creamy cheesecake base with rich coffee and luscious caramel swirls, all atop a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfect for coffee lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike, these bars offer a sophisticated blend of flavors and a beautiful marbled finish, making them ideal for gatherings or a special treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling

2 cups cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 cup sour cream
1 tsp vanilla extract

Flavor Mix-ins

1/4 cup strong brewed coffee
1/4 cup caramel sauce
1/4 cup heavy cream

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Instructions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Set your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the bars after baking.
Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix thoroughly and press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan, forming an even crust layer.
Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup granulated sugar until the texture is smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to maintain a uniform mixture. Then, mix in the sour cream and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Divide and Flavor: Split the cream cheese filling evenly into two separate bowls. To one bowl, add the strong brewed coffee and heavy cream, mixing until smooth. To the other bowl, add the caramel sauce and blend well to combine.
Combine in Pan and Swirl: Alternately drop dollops of the coffee-flavored and caramel-flavored cream cheese mixtures over the crust. Using a knife, gently swirl the two mixtures together to create a decorative marbled effect.
Bake and Chill: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the cheesecake center is set but still slightly jiggly. Remove from oven and allow to cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours to fully set before slicing into 12 bars.

Notes

Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth batter without lumps.
Use strong brewed coffee for a pronounced coffee flavor without overpowering bitterness.
Swirling the mixtures gently prevents them from blending too much and losing the marbled appearance.
Chilling the bars overnight will enhance the texture and flavor development.
For easier slicing, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American