Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars Recipe

If you’re looking for a decadent dessert that’s quick to whip up yet delivers big on flavor, Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars are the perfect treat. With a creamy cheesecake filling and a rich butterscotch-infused graham cracker crust, these bars are ideal for any occasion, from family gatherings to casual weeknight desserts. Plus, they require minimal ingredients and effort, making them great for both novice and experienced bakers alike. Keep reading to discover how you can make these mouthwatering cheesecake bars step by step!

Why You’ll Love These Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars

These bars combine the irresistible sweetness of butterscotch with the creamy tang of cheesecake, creating a dessert that’s both comforting and elegant. Here’s why this recipe is a must-try:

• Easy to make: With just a handful of common ingredients, you can have a delicious dessert ready to chill in under an hour.
• Perfect texture: The graham cracker crust offers a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy cheesecake layer.
• Versatile: Serve these bars as a snack, dessert, or even a sweet treat for a special occasion.

Ingredients for Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars

Here’s a complete list of the ingredients you’ll need to make these delicious cheesecake bars:

• 11 ounces butterscotch chips
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 14 full sheets of graham crackers, finely crushed)
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 1 large egg
• 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon salt

These simple ingredients come together beautifully, resulting in a sweet and creamy dessert that everyone will love.

this RECIPE

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Before you start, make sure you have the following kitchen tools on hand:

• 9×9-inch baking pan
• Aluminum foil
• Cooking spray
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Handheld or stand mixer
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowls

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars

1. Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with aluminum foil, making sure the edges overhang slightly for easy removal later. Lightly coat the foil with cooking spray to ensure the bars won’t stick.

2. Make the Butterscotch Crust

In a medium saucepan over medium to medium-low heat, melt the butterscotch chips and unsalted butter. Stir continuously for about 5 minutes, until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. This step requires patience, as butterscotch chips can take time to melt and may appear grainy before becoming smooth. Keep whisking until you have a uniform, glossy mixture.

3. Prepare the Crust

Once melted, stir in the graham cracker crumbs until fully combined. Reserve 1 heaping cup of the crumb mixture for the topping. Press the remaining mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan, creating an even crust layer.

4. Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, beat the cream cheese on high speed for 2-3 minutes, until smooth and fluffy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure even mixing.
Next, add the egg, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Continue beating until the mixture is fully incorporated. If you notice small lumps of cream cheese, don’t worry—just keep mixing, and they will eventually smooth out.

5. Assemble the Bars

Pour the cream cheese mixture evenly over the prepared graham cracker crust. Then, take the reserved butterscotch crumb mixture and sprinkle it evenly over the top of the cheesecake layer.

6. Bake the Cheesecake Bars

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 32 to 35 minutes, or until the top is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Start checking the bars at around 25 minutes, as baking times may vary depending on your oven. The top should be springy to the touch but not fully firm.

7. Cool and Chill

Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 1 hour at room temperature. Once cooled, cover the pan and refrigerate for several hours or until fully chilled. This step ensures the cheesecake layer sets properly, making the bars easier to cut and serve.

Tips for Perfect Cheesecake Bars Every Time

• Fully soften the cream cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing to avoid a lumpy filling.
• Don’t skip the chilling step: It may be tempting to dig in right away, but chilling the bars gives them time to firm up for perfect slicing.
• Use a serrated knife to cut the bars: This will help you achieve clean, even slices without dragging through the filling.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Baking Cheesecake Bars

• Over-mixing the filling: Beating the cream cheese mixture too long can cause the cheesecake to be overly dense. Mix just until combined for a lighter texture.
• Not packing the crust firmly: Press the crust mixture down with a firm hand to ensure it holds together when sliced.
• Skipping the foil lining: This makes removing the bars from the pan a breeze and ensures no sticking.

Presentation Tips for Serving Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars

For a beautiful presentation, cut the bars into uniform squares and arrange them on a serving platter. Dust the tops with a light sprinkling of powdered sugar or garnish with extra graham cracker crumbs for an elegant touch. You can also drizzle melted butterscotch or chocolate over the top for a luxurious finish.

Storing and Freezing Cheesecake Bars

To store:
Cover any leftover bars with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days.

To freeze:
If you want to make these bars ahead of time, they can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving.

Variations and Swaps for This Recipe

• Chocolate twist: Substitute half of the butterscotch chips with chocolate chips for a fun variation.
• Nuts or toffee bits: Add chopped nuts or toffee bits to the reserved crumb topping for an added crunch.
• Caramel drizzle: Drizzle a bit of caramel sauce over the top before serving for an extra indulgent touch.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but the bars may not be as rich and creamy as they are with full-fat cream cheese.

Can I substitute the graham crackers?
Absolutely! You can use crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers for a slightly different flavor.

How do I know when the bars are done?
The bars are done when the top is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. The edges should be firm and the center springy to the touch.

Conclusion

These Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate indulgence, combining the rich flavors of butterscotch and cheesecake in one irresistible dessert. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser you’ll turn to again and again.

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