Buttery Bliss Salted Butterscotch Cheesecake Bars
Table of Contents
Recipe Introduction: Buttery Bliss Awaits!
Ever get a craving for something sweet, salty, and utterly indulgent? Right, here you go . Then you need these Butterscotch Cheesecake Bars in your life.
Honestly, they are dead easy and bursting with all the right flavors!
What's the Story Behind these Bars?
These bars are inspired by good ol' American baking. Think a classic cheesecake got a serious glow-up! They are a medium difficulty level and will need around 2 hours to make, including chilling time.
The recipe makes 16 bars. Perfect for sharing... or not!
Why You'll Love 'Em
These Salted Butterscotch Cheesecake Bars are more than just a treat. It is an experience, full of rich flavor and smooth, creamy texture, and you're also getting a good dose of calcium from the dairy.
Serve them at your next bake sale! What makes them special? That homemade butterscotch sauce, of course. You know?
Gather 'Round, Ingredient Time!
First, you'll need stuff for the graham cracker crust. Then, comes the Homemade Butterscotch Sauce Recipe : butter, brown sugar, cream.
..the works! Last but not least, the creamy cheesecake filling with softened cream cheese and everything else needed to bake it.
You know all the usual suspects in Cream Cheese Dessert Bars .
Let's Talk Ingredients & Equipment for the BEST Butterscotch Cheesecake Bars!
Right, so you're itching to make these lush Butterscotch Cheesecake Bars ? Here you go let's break down what you'll need.
I remember the first time I tried making a cheesecake. Oh my gosh, what a disaster! I learned my lesson: quality ingredients make all the difference.
Main Ingredients for Buttery Bliss
- Graham Cracker Crust: You'll need 1 ½ cups ( 150g ) graham cracker crumbs. Honestly, buy the pre-crumbled ones. Life's too short! Also, 5 tablespoons ( 70g ) unsalted butter, melted, and ¼ cup ( 50g ) granulated sugar.
- Butterscotch Sauce: The heart of the matter! Get ½ cup ( 115g ) unsalted butter, 1 cup ( 200g ) packed light brown sugar, ½ cup ( 120ml ) heavy cream, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon coarse sea salt. Don't skimp on the salt. It brings out the butterscotch flavour. A Homemade Butterscotch Sauce Recipe that slaps!
- Cheesecake Filling: Now for the creamy bit! 24 ounces ( 680g ) cream cheese, softened (crucial!), ¾ cup ( 150g ) granulated sugar, 2 large eggs at room temp, ¼ cup ( 60ml ) heavy cream, and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract. Cream cheese is the star. Get the full fat stuff, it's worth it. This Easy Cheesecake Bar Recipe is so doable.
Seasoning Notes: Elevating your Dessert Dishes
For these Salted Butterscotch Cheesecake Bars , it's all about that salted butterscotch. Vanilla extract is essential don't skip it.
Sea salt really makes the flavours POP! If you don't have sea salt, table salt will do in a pinch, but use less.
Experiment!
Equipment You'll Need: Keep it Simple
You don't need a ton of fancy equipment to make these Bar Cookies . A 9x13 inch baking pan is essential.
Parchment paper will save your life when removing the bars. Different sized mixing bowls are always handy. An electric mixer (stand or hand held) is your best friend for the cheesecake.
A saucepan for the butterscotch. If you don't have a whisk, a fork works fine.
Buttery Bliss: Mastering the Art of Salted Butterscotch Cheesecake Bars
Oh my gosh, you guys. Honestly, have you ever had one of those days where all you need is a hug.
..and a massive dessert? Yeah, me too. That's why I'm so excited to share my version of these utterly divine Salted Butterscotch Cheesecake Bars ! They're like a warm blanket for your soul.
..but, you know, in dessert form.
These are inspired by classic American baking, offer a delightful balance of sweet and salty, perfect for afternoon tea, bake sales, or a special dessert.
Get ready, this bars recipe will change your life.
Prep Steps: Your Mise en Place Mission
First things first: let's get our ducks in a row. This is what chefs call the mise en place.
- Essential mise en place: Measure out all your ingredients before you even think about turning on the oven. Seriously, it makes all the difference. 24 ounces (680g) of softened cream cheese is the star here so make sure it’s ready!
- Time saving organization tips: I like to prep the graham cracker crust ( 1 ½ cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs ) while the cream cheese is softening two birds, one stone!
- Safety reminders: Keep that melted butter ( 5 tablespoons (70g) unsalted butter ) away from little hands!
step-by-step: From Crumbs to Creamy Perfection
Right, let's get down to business. This easy cheesecake bar recipe is totally doable if you follow these simple steps:
- Crush those graham crackers, mix with melted butter, and sugar. Then, press it into your 9x13 inch baking pan .
- Chill that crust! 30 minutes in the fridge. Trust me.
- Whip up that butterscotch sauce (butter, brown sugar – 1 cup (200g) , heavy cream – ½ cup (120ml) , vanilla, salt). It should look amazing.
- Beat cream cheese, sugar, eggs, cream, vanilla until smooth. Be gentle!.
- Layer it all together! Cheesecake, sauce, cheesecake, sauce. Swirl it like you mean it!
- Bake at 350° F ( 175° C) for 40- 45 minutes . Edges set, center slightly jiggly.
- Cool completely, then chill for at least 4 hours . Overnight is better.
- Slice and devour!
Pro Tips: Level Up Your Butterscotch Game
Want to make these Butterscotch Cheesecake even more amazing? Here you go!
- Salt is your friend. Don't be shy with that ½ teaspoon coarse sea salt in the butterscotch. It balances the sweetness beautifully.
- Don't overbake! A jiggly center is good. Overbaked cheesecake is sad cheesecake.
- make-ahead option: These are perfect for making a day or two ahead. Just keep 'em chilled.
Okay, so those are my thoughts on the best tips for Butterscotch Dessert Ideas . Now, go make these Butterscotch Cheesecake Bars , and prepare to be amazed! I hope you enjoyed this recipe for Bar Cookies .
Recipe Notes for Your Best Butterscotch Cheesecake Bars Ever!
Right then, let's talk about these Salted Butterscotch Cheesecake Bars . Honestly, these aren't hard to make, but a few tips and tricks can take them from good to utterly amazing .
Here you go, lets level up these bars from good to "Oh my gosh!"
Serving Suggestions: Because Presentation Matters!
Listen, we all eat with our eyes first, don't we? When you plate up these bad boys, think about making them look as good as they taste.
Try cutting them into neat squares. Now, don't just plonk them on a plate.
Why not add a swirl of whipped cream? Or a tiny scoop of vanilla ice cream if you're feeling extra fancy.
A sprinkle of sea salt also works wonders. Also think in terms of complementing your Dessert Dishes with a cuppa or a glass of chilled milk!
Storage Tips: Keep the Goodness Going
Right, so you've made a batch, and somehow, somehow , there are leftovers. How to keep them in tip-top condition? Simple.
Keep the Cream Cheese Dessert Bars in the fridge. They'll happily sit there for up to 3 days. Just make sure they're covered, so they don't dry out.
Freezing is an option too! Wrap them well in cling film, then foil, and they'll last for a month or two.
Defrost overnight in the fridge. For reheating, honestly, they're best cold. But if you must , a few seconds in the microwave will do the trick.
Not much more though!
Variations: Let's Get Creative!
Fancy a twist? A little peanut butter in the Homemade Butterscotch Sauce Recipe is delicious. Or how about a swirl of melted chocolate? Ooof! Need a gluten-free version? Easy peasy just swap the normal graham crackers for gluten-free ones.
That way even more folks can enjoy these Butterscotch Dessert Ideas !
Nutrition Basics: The Fun Facts
Ok, nobody's pretending these Butterscotch Cheesecake are health food. Each bar is about 350 calories. They've got about 5g of protein and around 22g of fat.
Carbs come in at 35g. But hey, it's all about balance, right? Enjoy every delicious bite of your Easy Cheesecake Bar Recipe !
And that's it! A few extra tips to help you on your way. These Bars Recipe are all about good old home baking so get stuck in and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
My butterscotch sauce seized up! Help! What did I do wrong and how do I fix it when making these Butterscotch Cheesecake Bars?
Oh dear, a seized butterscotch sauce is a baking blunder worthy of The Great British Baking Show! It usually happens when the butter or sugar overheats or cools down too quickly. Try adding a tablespoon or two of warm heavy cream while whisking vigorously over low heat. This can help bring it back together.
Next time, ensure the heat is consistent and don't stop stirring! A candy thermometer can be your best friend here to prevent over heating and burning the sugars!
Can I make the Butterscotch Cheesecake Bars ahead of time? Like, days ahead?
Absolutely! These bars are perfect for making in advance, just like a proper Sunday roast can be prepped the day before. The flavors actually meld together and improve with time. Store them, well covered, in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just be sure to keep them airtight to prevent them from drying out.
You could even freeze them for longer storage (see freezing instructions below)!
How do I get clean slices when cutting the Butterscotch Cheesecake Bars? Mine always look a mess!
Ah, the age-old cheesecake slicing dilemma! The key is patience and a hot, clean knife. Run a long, thin knife under hot water, wipe it dry with a clean towel, and then make your cut. Repeat this process between each slice. This will give you those picture perfect, Instagram worthy bars.
Alternatively, you can use unflavored dental floss. Carefully slide it down between the bars in a sawing motion. It is quick and easy!
Can I freeze these Butterscotch Cheesecake Bars? I'm the only one eating them!
Good on you for having excellent taste! Yes, these bars freeze beautifully. Cut them into individual portions, wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
When you're ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a quicker treat. You'll have a perfect little dessert whenever the craving strikes!
Are there any substitutions I can make to these Butterscotch Cheesecake Bars to make it healthier?
While these are definitely a treat, a few tweaks can make them slightly lighter. You could use reduced fat cream cheese (though it might affect the texture slightly), or substitute part of the sugar with a sugar alternative.
For the crust, you could experiment with using whole wheat graham crackers, but be mindful that any substitution may impact the flavor and texture. But let's be honest, sometimes you just need to indulge a little!
My cheesecake always cracks! How can I prevent that when making these Butterscotch Cheesecake Bars?
Cracked cheesecakes are a common baking woe, but there are a few things you can do to minimize the risk. Avoid overbaking a slightly jiggly center is ideal. You can also try a water bath: wrap the bottom of your springform pan in foil and place it inside a larger pan.
Add hot water to the larger pan until it comes halfway up the sides of the springform pan. This creates a humid environment that helps the cheesecake bake more evenly. Cool the cheesecake gradually in the oven with the door ajar to prevent drastic temperature changes.
Buttery Bliss Salted Butterscotch Cheesecake Bar
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 350 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 22g |
| Fiber | 0g |