Caramel Pecan Cheesecake Bars

 

Ingredients

Crust

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

¼ cup sugar

½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling

2 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese, softened

½ cup sugar

2 eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

Topping

¾ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

½ cup chopped pecans

Sea salt (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

2. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined.

3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 8 minutes, then let it cool.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

4. In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.

5. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing after each. Stir in vanilla extract.

6. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is just set.

8. Let cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours (or overnight).

Step 4: Add Caramel & Pecans

9. Once chilled, drizzle caramel sauce over the top. Sprinkle with chopped pecans and a pinch of sea salt (if desired).

Step 5: Slice & Serve

10. Cut into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy!

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Tips & Variations

Chocolate Drizzle: Add melted chocolate on top for extra indulgence.

Bourbon Caramel: Stir 1 tbsp of bourbon into the caramel for a rich, deep flavor.

Extra Crunch: Add crushed pretzels to the topping for a salty-sweet contrast.

Would you like a homemade caramel sauce recipe to go with it?