Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s rich, creamy, and just the right amount of indulgent, these Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars are calling your name. This delightful treat starts with a sweet and buttery graham cracker crust that’s infused with melted butterscotch chips and butter. Topped with a luscious cheesecake layer made from cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla, and egg, every bite delivers a perfect balance of silky texture and deep caramel-like butterscotch flavor.

Ideal for holiday platters, potlucks, or an afternoon coffee break, these bars are easy to make and impossible to resist. The combination of warm butterscotch and creamy cheesecake adds a nostalgic yet elevated twist to traditional dessert bars. With a short list of ingredients and no fancy tools required, this recipe is both beginner-friendly and impressive enough to serve at any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Rich Butterscotch Flavor – Melted butterscotch chips infuse both the crust and cheesecake with warm, deep sweetness.
2. Simple Ingredients – Made with pantry staples you likely already have on hand.
3. Creamy and Crunchy Combo – A buttery graham cracker base meets smooth, tangy cheesecake.
4. Perfect Make-Ahead Dessert – Great chilled, making them ideal for prepping ahead of time.
5. Crowd-Pleaser – Loved by kids and adults alike, with a classic flavor profile that never disappoints.

Ingredients

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

Variations

Chocolate Swirl

Add a swirl of melted dark chocolate into the cheesecake batter before baking for extra richness.

Nutty Crunch

Mix chopped pecans or walnuts into the crust or sprinkle on top before baking for added texture.

Gluten-Free

Use gluten-free graham crackers to make the crust.

Salted Caramel Drizzle

Top with a light drizzle of salted caramel sauce once cooled for added decadence.

Spiced Version

Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the crust for a warm, autumn twist.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

Step 2

In a saucepan, melt the butterscotch chips with unsalted butter over low heat, stirring until smooth.

Step 3

In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs with the melted butterscotch mixture until evenly coated. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the crust.

Step 4

In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the egg, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until fully combined and silky.

Step 5

Pour the cheesecake mixture over the graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly.

Step 6

Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the center is set and the edges are lightly golden.

Step 7

Let cool completely at room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before slicing into bars.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Soften cream cheese thoroughly for a smooth, lump-free filling.
• Press the crust down firmly to prevent crumbling after baking.
• Chill thoroughly before slicing for clean, even bars.
• Use a hot knife for neater slices.
• Store in an airtight container to preserve texture and flavor.

How to Serve

Serve these bars chilled as a bite-sized dessert on party platters, as an after-dinner treat, or with a cup of coffee or tea. For a more indulgent presentation, drizzle with caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing

Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

These bars are best served chilled. Reheating is not recommended.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of chip instead of butterscotch?

Yes, white chocolate or caramel chips also work well.

2. Can I substitute graham crackers with another type of cookie?

Yes, try crushed vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits.

3. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Full-fat cream cheese gives the best texture, but low-fat can be used in a pinch.

4. Can I use homemade condensed milk?

Yes, as long as it’s thick and sweetened like the canned version.

5. What’s the best way to press the crust evenly?

Use the bottom of a measuring cup or glass.

6. How do I know when it’s done baking?

The center should be just set and no longer jiggly.

7. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a 9×13-inch pan and increase baking time slightly.

8. Do I need to use parchment paper?

It helps with easy removal, but greasing the pan also works.

9. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars taste even better the next day.

10. Are they very sweet?

They are sweet, but the cream cheese adds a tangy balance.

Conclusion

These Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars combine the nostalgic flavor of butterscotch with the irresistible creaminess of cheesecake—all on a crunchy graham cracker base. They’re simple to make, rich in flavor, and ideal for every occasion from family get-togethers to holiday desserts. If you’re looking for a sweet treat that’s easy yet impressive, this is the recipe to try next.

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