A Timeless Treat: Caramel Cheesecake Bars

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup caramel topping
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking pan.
3. In another bowl, beat the cream cheese, 1/2 cup sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust in the pan.
5. Mix the caramel topping with the flour until well combined. Drizzle this over the cream cheese layer, then use a knife to swirl the caramel into the cream cheese.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set. Allow to cool, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours.
7. Cut into bars and serve.

Variations & Tips

• Salted Caramel Twist: Sprinkle a little sea salt over the caramel layer before baking to create salted caramel cheesecake bars.
• Chocolate Lovers: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top after baking for an extra indulgent touch.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the graham cracker crumbs with your favorite gluten-free cookie crumbs.