Description
Imagine biting into the perfect balance of creamy cheesecake, luscious caramel, and the delightful crunch of a buttery cookie crust. If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug, Perfect Cookie Butter Caramel Cheesecake Bars are exactly what you need. These bars bring together the richness of cookie butter, the tang of cream cheese, and the decadence of caramel in a way that will make every bite unforgettable.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups Speculoos cookie crumbs (or graham cracker crumbs)
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup cookie butter (spread)
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 tsp lemon juice
For the Topping:
- 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Extra caramel sauce for drizzling, as desired
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a bowl, mix the cookie crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the crust mixture into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and cool completely.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- Beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add the vanilla extract and eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the cookie butter, sour cream, and lemon juice until fully combined.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top.
- Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center jiggles slightly.
- Turn off the oven, leave the door ajar, and let the cheesecake cool for 1 hour.
- Chill and Serve:
- Let the cheesecake reach room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Before serving, drizzle with caramel sauce. Slice into bars and enjoy!
Notes
- Softening Cream Cheese: Ensure that the cream cheese is at room temperature to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Cookie Butter Alternatives: If you can’t find cookie butter, peanut butter or Nutella will work as great substitutes for a different flavor twist.
- Preventing Cracks: To avoid cracks in your cheesecake, do not overmix the batter and allow it to cool gradually.
- Storing Leftovers: Store these bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. They also freeze well for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60-70 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American