Want a decadent dessert in no time? Try these easy Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars made with a homemade graham cracker crust and quick baking method, perfect as a family favorite, Save for later

Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars

Introduction

Imagine a dessert that combines the crunch of graham crackers, the richness of cheesecake, and the deep, caramel-like flavor of butterscotch, all in one deliciously layered bar. These Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars are not only a treat for the taste buds, but they’re also surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal special ingredients and effort. Perfect for a quick dessert or as a centerpiece for your next gathering, this recipe is a masterclass in balance and creativity, turning everyday ingredients into something truly special.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of graham crackers, cheesecake, and butterscotch provides a perfect harmony of textures and tastes, and all the ingredients are easily found in most supermarkets.
• Ease of preparation: Despite the impressive result, these bars are relatively simple to prepare, with a straightforward process that doesn’t require advanced baking skills.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: The layered effect and the combination of flavors make these bars look and taste like they came from a professional bakery, all with minimal fuss.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients in these Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars include graham crackers for the crust, a mixture of cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla for the cheesecake layer, and butterscotch chips or sauce for the butterscotch flavor. For the crust, you can also use digestive biscuits or any other similar crackers as a substitute. The cheesecake layer can be customized with different flavor extracts like lemon or almond for a twist. Butterscotch chips can be substituted with a homemade butterscotch sauce made from butter, brown sugar, and heavy cream for an added layer of depth.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, prepare your crust by crushing 1 1/2 cups of graham crackers in a food processor until they’re finely ground. Mix in 1/4 cup of sugar and 6 tablespoons of melted butter until the mixture is evenly moistened. Press this mixture into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish lined with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then set it aside to cool. While the crust is cooling, prepare the cheesecake layer by beating 12 ounces of cream cheese with 1/2 cup of sugar until smooth. Beat in 2 large eggs one at a time, followed by 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
3. Step 3: Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust and smooth the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is just slightly jiggly. Let it cool completely in the pan.
4. Step 4: Once the cheesecake is cool, melt 1 cup of butterscotch chips with 1 tablespoon of heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth. Pour the butterscotch sauce over the cheesecake layer and refrigerate the bars for at least 4 hours or overnight. Cut into bars and serve.

Handy Tips

• To ensure the crust doesn’t become too dark, keep an eye on it during the baking time and cover the edges with foil if necessary. For the cheesecake layer, make sure to beat the cream cheese until it’s very smooth to avoid lumps. When melting the butterscotch chips, be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the sauce to seize up.

Heat Control

For baking the crust and the cheesecake, maintaining the right temperature is crucial. Ensure your oven is at 350°F (175°C) for both steps. The crust should be baked for 10 minutes, and the cheesecake layer should be baked until the edges are set and the center is just slightly jiggly, usually around 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on the cheesecake during the last 5 minutes of baking, as oven times can vary.

Crunch Factor

The crunch in these bars comes from the graham cracker crust. To achieve the perfect crunch, make sure the crust is baked until it’s lightly browned and set. Avoid overbaking, as this can make the crust too hard. If you’re using a different type of cracker, you might need to adjust the baking time slightly.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• For a cleaner cut, refrigerate the bars for at least 30 minutes before slicing. Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts to prevent the butterscotch sauce from smearing.
• To make the bars more visually appealing, you can drizzle additional butterscotch sauce on top or sprinkle with sea salt before serving.

Storage Tips

• These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, they can be frozen for up to 2 months. When freezing, it’s best to cut the bars first, then place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container, separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• When reheating, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours. You can also reheat individual bars in the microwave for a few seconds if you prefer them slightly warmed.

Gift Packaging Ideas

These bars are perfect for gifting, especially during holidays or as a thank-you gesture. Consider packaging them in decorative tins, jars, or even wrapping them individually in cellophane bags and tying with a ribbon. You can also include a card with the recipe or a personal message to make it a more thoughtful gift.

Flavor Variations

• 🌟 Different spices: Add a pinch of salt or a teaspoon of cinnamon to the cheesecake batter for a unique twist.
• 🌟 Creative toppings: Drizzle with caramel sauce, sprinkle with chopped nuts, or add a layer of fresh fruit to the top of the bars before serving.
• 🌟 Ingredient swaps: Use peanut butter chips instead of butterscotch for a peanut butter cheesecake bar, or substitute the graham crackers with chocolate sandwich cookies for a chocolatey twist.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the cheesecake is too dense, it might be overbaked. If it’s too soft, it might not be baked enough. Adjust the baking time as needed for your oven.
• Ingredient replacements: Always try to use the ingredients listed, but if you need to substitute, do so with ingredients of similar texture and flavor profile to maintain the balance of the dish.
• Over/undercooking signs: The crust should be lightly browned, and the cheesecake should be slightly jiggly in the center. If the edges of the cheesecake are too brown, it might be overcooked.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, these bars can be frozen for up to 2 months. Cut them before freezing for easier thawing and serving.
• Is it gluten-free? Depending on the type of crackers used, these bars might not be gluten-free. Look for gluten-free alternatives to the graham crackers to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe, but you’ll need to adjust the baking time slightly. Keep an eye on the cheesecake to ensure it doesn’t overcook.

Conclusion

These Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars are a delightful dessert that combines the best of textures and flavors into one delicious package. With their ease of preparation, impressive presentation, and versatility in customization, they’re perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is sure to please, and with the tips and variations provided, you can make it your own. So go ahead, give these bars a try, and enjoy the ooohs and ahhhs from your family and friends as you serve them up!