Caramel Cheesecake Bars (Printer-Friendly)

Creamy cheesecake bars with a graham cracker crust and luscious caramel topping, perfect chilled dessert.

# The Ingredients You'll Need:

→ Crust

01 - 2 cups finely crushed graham crackers
02 - 1/3 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter

→ Cheesecake

04 - Two 8-ounce packages softened cream cheese
05 - 2/3 cup white sugar
06 - 2 large eggs
07 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

→ Topping

08 - One 13.4-ounce can dulce de leche
09 - A dash of sea salt (optional)
10 - 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

# Step-by-Step Instructions:

01 - Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving overhang to lift bars easily.
02 - Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Firmly press mixture into bottom of prepared pan. Bake 8 minutes, then cool slightly.
03 - Beat cream cheese and sugar with an electric mixer until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla extract.
04 - Spread cheesecake batter evenly over cooled crust. Bake 25-30 minutes until set but slightly wobbly in center. Cool completely.
05 - Warm dulce de leche if needed to soften (microwave 20 seconds). Spread evenly over chilled cheesecake. Garnish with sea salt and nuts if desired.
06 - Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight to set. Use parchment overhang to lift out bars, slice, and serve chilled.

# Extra Tips:

01 - Bars achieve best flavor and texture when fully chilled.