Elegant Coffee Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe
If you’re in the mood for a show-stopping dessert that brings together the richness of cheesecake, the boldness of coffee, and the silky sweetness of homemade caramel, then this Elegant Coffee Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe is about to become your new favorite treat. These bars are a symphony of creamy, crunchy, and gooey layers, perfect for impressing guests or indulging in a little self-care. Every bite delivers a lush coffee-kissed cheesecake on a buttery graham base, finished with a glossy caramel drizzle that’s honestly irresistible. Whether you’re planning a dinner party or just want something special with your afternoon coffee, this recipe delivers elegance and comfort in equal measure.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a key role, ensuring every layer is packed with flavor and texture. Most are pantry staples, but together, they create a dessert that’s truly greater than the sum of its parts!
- Graham cracker crumbs: The classic base, lending a sweet, toasty crunch that perfectly supports the creamy layers above.
- Granulated sugar: Essential for sweetness in both crust and filling, and it caramelizes beautifully for the finishing sauce.
- Unsalted butter: Melted into the crust for richness, and whisked into the caramel for silkiness.
- Cream cheese: The star of the cheesecake layer, giving it that smooth, tangy, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Eggs: These bind the filling, ensuring a creamy yet sliceable cheesecake bar.
- All-purpose flour: Just a touch helps set the filling for perfect, clean cuts.
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the cheesecake, complementing both coffee and caramel.
- Strong brewed coffee: Brings a subtle, aromatic bitterness that makes each bite unforgettable; espresso is even better for coffee lovers!
- Sour cream: Enhances the creaminess and brings a slight tang to balance the sweetness.
- Heavy cream: Whisked into the caramel for a luxurious, pourable finish.
- Pinch of salt: Just enough to cut the sweetness and bring out all the flavors in the caramel.
- Water: Helps dissolve the sugar for an ultra-smooth caramel topping.
How to Make Elegant Coffee Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides. This little trick ensures you’ll be able to lift your cheesecake bars out easily and cut them into perfect squares—no sticking or crumbling!
Step 2: Mix and Bake the Crust
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until every crumb is coated and the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan; a flat-bottomed glass works wonders here. Bake for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden, then let the crust cool while you make the filling.
Step 3: Make the Coffee Cheesecake Layer
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until completely smooth and creamy—no lumps allowed! Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Next, stir in the flour, vanilla extract, cooled brewed coffee, and sour cream. The batter should be silky and fragrant. Pour this luscious mixture over your slightly cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula for even baking.
Step 4: Bake and Cool the Cheesecake
Bake the cheesecake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is set but still has a slight jiggle. Once done, turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 15 minutes—this gentle cooling helps prevent cracks. Take it out, let it cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results. Patience pays off here!
Step 5: Prepare the Caramel Topping
While your cheesecake chills, make the caramel: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar and water. Let it cook undisturbed until it turns a deep amber color. Remove from heat and carefully whisk in the butter—stand back, it may bubble! Then stir in the heavy cream and a pinch of salt for balance. Let the caramel cool until it’s thick yet pourable.
Step 6: Top, Chill, and Slice
Pour the cooled caramel over your chilled cheesecake, spreading it evenly to the edges. Pop the pan back in the fridge for another 30 minutes to set the caramel. Once set, lift the bars out using the parchment overhang, slice into 16 squares (cleaning the knife between cuts for those gorgeous edges), and you’re ready to serve up the Elegant Coffee Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe!
How to Serve Elegant Coffee Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
For a picture-perfect finish, dust your bars with a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt, a few chocolate-covered espresso beans, or even a drizzle of extra caramel. Fresh whipped cream or a dusting of cocoa powder also gives them that bakery-worthy flair.
Side Dishes
Serve your Elegant Coffee Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe with a steaming cup of coffee, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or fresh berries. The creamy, bold flavors pair beautifully with something light and refreshing or a simple hot drink to round out the experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant dessert platter, arrange the bars on a chic cake stand, alternating directions for a “checkerboard” look. Or, stack them in a pyramid and drizzle with caramel just before serving for a dramatic effect. Individual cupcake liners make them party-ready and easy to serve!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover bars keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to five days. Store them in an airtight container, layering parchment or wax paper between each layer to prevent sticking and preserve that perfect caramel sheen.
Freezing
Want to save a batch for later? Freeze the sliced bars (without caramel) tightly wrapped in plastic wrap, then in foil, for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, add the caramel topping just before serving, and you’ll have a virtually fresh batch on hand.
Reheating
These bars are best enjoyed chilled, but if you love a bit of warmth, let them sit at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes before serving. Gently rewarm any leftover caramel in the microwave for a few seconds to drizzle over the bars if desired.
FAQs
Can I use instant coffee instead of brewed coffee?
Absolutely! Dissolve 2 teaspoons of instant coffee granules in 2 tablespoons of hot water and let it cool before adding to the cheesecake batter for a robust flavor.
How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake layer?
Make sure not to overmix after adding eggs, and allow the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven with the door cracked open. This gentle cooling helps avoid sudden temperature changes that cause cracks.
Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes! Double all ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan. Baking time may need to be increased by about 10–15 minutes, but the Elegant Coffee Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe will be just as decadent.
What’s the best way to cut the bars cleanly?
Use a sharp knife wiped clean between each cut, and make sure your bars are well chilled for the neatest slices. A warm knife (run under hot water then dried) can also help achieve those crisp edges.
Can I make the caramel topping ahead of time?
Yes! The caramel sauce can be made up to a week in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and gently rewarm before pouring over the cheesecake bars for that perfect finish.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about the Elegant Coffee Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe—each layer is a treat in itself, but together, they create pure dessert bliss. I hope you enjoy making and sharing these as much as I do. Give them a try, and don’t be surprised if they become your new signature sweet!
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Elegant Coffee Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Elegant Coffee Caramel Cheesecake Bars combine a rich, creamy cheesecake infused with a hint of strong brewed coffee and topped with a luscious homemade caramel sauce. Perfect for coffee lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike, these bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth, velvety texture, making them a sophisticated treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake layer:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons strong brewed coffee, cooled
- ¼ cup sour cream
For the caramel topping:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons water
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides to easily lift the bars out later.
- Make the crust: In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until evenly combined. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 8–10 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly.
- Prepare cheesecake filling: Beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the flour, vanilla extract, cooled brewed coffee, and sour cream until fully blended and silky smooth. Pour this cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust and use a spatula to smooth the surface.
- Bake the cheesecake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Once done, turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 15 minutes to prevent cracking. Remove from oven and let cool completely at room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best texture.
- Prepare the caramel topping: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar and water. Cook without stirring until the mixture reaches a deep amber color. Remove from heat carefully and whisk in the butter until melted and combined. Slowly add the heavy cream and a pinch of salt while whisking continuously. Allow the caramel to cool slightly before using.
- Assemble and chill: Once the cheesecake bars are fully chilled, pour the caramel topping evenly over the bars and spread gently. Chill the bars for an additional 30 minutes to set the caramel.
- Serve: Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the cheesecake out of the pan. Use a sharp knife, wiping it clean between cuts, to slice into 16 bars. Serve chilled and enjoy.
Notes
- Use espresso instead of brewed coffee for a stronger coffee flavor.
- The caramel sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator; gently rewarm before pouring over the bars.
- For clean slicing, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts to prevent sticking and crumb buildup.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
