Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars

Dessert lovers, rejoice! Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars are a decadent treat that combine the best of both worlds: the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake and the irresistible sweetness of butterscotch. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a velvety cheesecake filling, and a luxurious butterscotch topping, these bars are the perfect dessert for any occasion.

The beauty of these bars lies not only in their flavor but also in their simplicity. They come together quickly, yet taste like you’ve spent hours perfecting them. The smooth, creamy filling contrasts beautifully with the crunchy graham cracker crust, while the sweet butterscotch topping adds an extra layer of indulgence. Whether you’re serving them at a party, bringing them to a potluck, or simply indulging on a cozy evening, these bars are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. They can even be made ahead, making them an ideal dessert for busy times.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Perfect Balance of Sweetness – Butterscotch adds a rich sweetness without overpowering the cheesecake flavor.
2. Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and straightforward steps mean you’ll have these bars ready in no time.
3. Crowd-Pleasing Dessert – With creamy cheesecake and the crunch of graham crackers, this is a universally loved treat.
4. No-Bake Convenience – Aside from baking the crust, most of the work is done in a pan, reducing mess and effort.
5. Make-Ahead Friendly – These bars can be made in advance, perfect for parties, potlucks, or meal prepping for a sweet snack.

Ingredients

• Butterscotch chips
• Unsalted butter
• Graham cracker crumbs
• Cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
• Large egg
• Sweetened condensed milk
• Vanilla extract
• Salt

Variations

• Add Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts make a delicious addition to the crust or as a topping.
• Switch the Topping: Instead of butterscotch, use chocolate chips, caramel, or peanut butter for a different flavor profile.
• Spiced Up Crust: Add a pinch of cinnamon or ginger to the graham cracker crumbs for a warming spice element.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers or alternative crumbs for a gluten-free version.
• Berry Topping: Fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries can complement the sweetness of the butterscotch.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 2

Melt the butterscotch chips and unsalted butter in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 30-second intervals and stirring until smooth.

Step 3

In a separate bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butterscotch mixture. Stir until well combined.

Step 4

Press the graham cracker crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.

Step 5

In a separate mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the egg, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt, and beat until fully combined and creamy.

Step 6

Pour the cream cheese mixture over the graham cracker crust and spread it out evenly.

Step 7

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set and slightly golden at the edges.

Step 8

Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing into squares.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Soften the Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to avoid lumps in the filling.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best texture, bring the egg and sweetened condensed milk to room temperature before mixing.
• Cool Completely: Let the bars cool completely to ensure they set properly and are easier to slice.
• Don’t Overmix: When mixing the filling, avoid overbeating to ensure the cheesecake stays light and creamy.
• Chill for Best Results: Chilling the bars helps them firm up and enhances the flavor.

How to Serve

Serve these decadent cheesecake bars chilled or at room temperature. They are delicious on their own, but for an extra touch, you can top them with whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel, or a sprinkle of sea salt. They make an excellent dessert for family gatherings, BBQs, or as a sweet treat to end a meal. Pair them with coffee, tea, or a glass of dessert wine for a complete experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

Freeze uncut bars or individual squares in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Allow them to thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

Since these bars are served chilled, no reheating is necessary. Enjoy straight from the fridge!

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of chip?

Yes, chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, or even caramel chips can be used as a substitute for butterscotch.

2. How do I make sure the bars don’t crack?

Allow the bars to cool completely and refrigerate before slicing to prevent cracking.

3. Can I use a larger pan?

Yes, if using a larger pan, you may need to adjust the baking time and crust thickness.

4. Can I substitute the sweetened condensed milk?

You can use regular milk, but sweetened condensed milk gives these bars their signature creamy, rich texture.

5. Can I freeze these bars?

Yes, these bars freeze well. Just wrap them tightly and store in an airtight container or freezer bag.

6. How can I make the bars less sweet?

Reduce the amount of sweetened condensed milk slightly, or use a sugar-free version for a lower-sugar treat.

7. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be used, though the texture and flavor might be slightly different.

8. How do I cut these bars neatly?

Use a sharp knife and cut the bars while they are cold for the cleanest cuts.

9. Can I make these without the egg?

The egg helps bind the filling, but you could try an egg substitute like a flax egg or chia egg for a vegan version.

10. How long should I chill the bars?

For the best results, chill the bars for at least 2 hours or overnight for a firmer texture.

Conclusion

Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars are the perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and sweet. With their rich butterscotch topping, smooth cheesecake filling, and buttery graham cracker crust, they are an irresistible dessert everyone will love. Easy to make, customizable, and perfect for any occasion, these bars will quickly become a staple in your dessert repertoire. Whether you’re serving them for a special event or enjoying them as a sweet snack, these bars are guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth!

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