Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars

Indulge in the delightful taste of Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars! These bars are perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to casual get-togethers with friends. With a chewy butterscotch crust that doubles as a topping and a creamy cheesecake layer, this dessert is sure to impress. The combination of flavors and textures makes each bite a memorable experience, showcasing how simple ingredients can create something extraordinary.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal preparation and cooking time, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The rich butterscotch flavor combined with the tangy cheesecake creates a mouthwatering dessert that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for parties, potlucks, or just a sweet treat at home, these bars cater to all occasions.
• Make Ahead Option: These cheesecake bars can be made in advance and stored in the fridge, making them great for meal prep.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re serving family or guests, these bars are sure to be a hit!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the deliciousness, gather your essential kitchen tools for a smooth baking experience.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• 9×9-inch baking pan
• Aluminum foil
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Stand mixer or handheld electric mixer
• Mixing bowls

Why These Tools Matter

• 9×9-inch baking pan: The perfect size for even baking and easy slicing of your cheesecake bars.
• Medium saucepan: Ideal for melting butterscotch chips evenly without burning them.
• Stand mixer or handheld electric mixer: Helps achieve that smooth and fluffy cream cheese mixture effortlessly.

Ingredients

For the Crust and Topping

• 11 ounces butterscotch chips
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs

For the Cheesecake Layer

• 8 ounces cream cheese (very well softened to room temp)
• 1 large egg
• one 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

How to Make Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350F. Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with aluminum foil to make cleanup easier. Spray with cooking spray and set aside.

Step 2: Melt the Butterscotch Mixture

In a medium saucepan, combine the butterscotch chips and butter. Heat over medium to medium-low heat while constantly whisking. Continue until melted and smooth—this should take at least 5 minutes.

Step 3: Combine with Graham Crackers

Once melted, stir in the graham cracker crumbs until well mixed. Reserve one heaping cup of this mixture in a small bowl for later use.

Step 4: Form the Crust

Transfer the remaining butterscotch crumb mixture into the prepared pan. Press it down evenly to form a solid crust layer.

Step 5: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

In your stand mixer or mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese. Beat on high speed until smooth and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes). Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 6: Mix Other Filling Ingredients

Add in the egg, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat until fully incorporated; some small blobs of cream cheese may remain initially but will mix in as you continue beating.

Step 7: Assemble Your Bars

Pour the cheesecake mixture evenly over the prepared crust in the baking pan.

Step 8: Add Topping and Bake

Sprinkle the reserved butterscotch crumb mixture evenly over the top of the cheesecake layer. Bake for about 32 to 35 minutes or until set—check around 25-30 minutes as ovens vary.

Step 9: Cool Before Serving

Allow your bars to cool in the pan for about one hour at room temperature. Cover and refrigerate until well chilled before cutting into squares and serving.

With these steps completed, you’ll have scrumptious Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars ready to delight everyone! Enjoy!

How to Serve Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars

These delicious Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars are perfect for any occasion. They can be served on their own or with a variety of accompaniments to enhance their flavor and presentation.

With Fresh Fruit

• Berries – Serve with fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a delightful contrast of sweetness and tartness.
• Banana Slices – Add some banana slices for a creamy texture that complements the bars’ richness.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Caramel Drizzle – A warm drizzle of caramel sauce adds an extra layer of indulgence that pairs beautifully with butterscotch flavors.
• Chocolate Sauce – For chocolate lovers, a light drizzle of chocolate sauce offers a decadent twist.

Chilled Cream

• Whipped Cream – Top with freshly whipped cream to add lightness and balance the dense cheesecake layer.
• Cool Whip – A dollop of Cool Whip provides a convenient, airy option that’s easy to prepare.

Coffee Pairing

• Espresso – A small cup of espresso serves as a robust counterpoint to the sweetness of the bars, enhancing flavor notes.
• Hot Chocolate – For a cozy treat, serve these bars alongside a warm cup of hot chocolate.

How to Perfect Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars

Achieving the perfect Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out wonderfully every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing and a smooth texture.
• Don’t Overbake – Watch closely towards the end of baking; they should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
• Cool Gradually – Allow the bars to cool at room temperature before refrigerating; this helps prevent cracks in the surface.
• Chill Thoroughly – Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving; this allows flavors to meld and enhances texture.
• Cut Cleanly – Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water for clean cuts, ensuring each piece looks beautiful when served.
• Store Properly – Keep leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to a week to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars

Complement these delectable cheesecake bars with side dishes that enhance their flavor profile. Here are some excellent options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream – A classic pairing; creamy vanilla ice cream balances the rich flavors of the cheesecake bars.
2. Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits brings brightness and acidity, cutting through the bar’s sweetness.
3. Chocolate Chip Cookies – For an extra sweet treat, serve alongside soft chocolate chip cookies that satisfy cookie cravings.
4. Nutty Granola – A crunchy nutty granola adds texture and can be sprinkled on top or served on the side for added crunch.
5. Coconut Whipped Cream – This dairy-free alternative adds tropical flair and lightness that complements butterscotch flavors well.
6. Chia Seed Pudding – A creamy chia pudding offers fiber and health benefits while providing an interesting contrast in texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Ignoring Ingredient Temperature: Using cold cream cheese can lead to a lumpy filling. Always ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth texture.
• Not Measuring Accurately: Baking is a science. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure precise measurements of ingredients for the best results.
• Overmixing the Filling: While it’s important to mix well, overmixing can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks in your cheesecake bars. Mix just until combined.
• Skipping the Cooling Time: Patience is key! Allowing the bars to cool properly helps set the filling and enhances flavor. Don’t rush this step.
• Using the Wrong Pan Size: A 9×9-inch pan is ideal for this recipe. Using a different size may affect baking time and texture.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store your Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container.
• item They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars

• item Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• item They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing their deliciousness.

Reheating Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and warm the bars covered with foil for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat each bar on low power for 15-20 seconds until warm, but avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place a bar in a non-stick skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars special?

These bars combine a chewy butterscotch crust with a creamy cheesecake layer, creating an irresistible dessert that delights every palate.

Can I customize the flavors of my Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars?

Absolutely! You can add flavors like chocolate chips, nuts, or spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra twist.

How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?

To minimize cracks, avoid overmixing and make sure your oven temperature is accurate. A water bath can also help maintain moisture during baking.

Can I use different types of crumbs instead of graham crackers?

Yes! You can experiment with other cookie crumbs like vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits for unique flavor variations.

Conclusion

These Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars are not only easy to make but also offer delightful contrasts in texture and flavor. Their versatility allows you to customize them with different toppings or add-ins according to your taste. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress family and friends alike!

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