Caramel Pecan Cheesecake Bars

Short description

Caramel Pecan Cheesecake Bars are a rich, indulgent dessert combining a buttery crust, creamy cheesecake filling, toasted pecans, and a luscious caramel topping. These bars offer the perfect balance of sweet and nutty flavours in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It merges multiple textures and flavours: crisp crust, smooth cheesecake, crunchy pecans, and gooey caramel.

• Ideal for gatherings, potlucks, or holidays due to easy slicing and serving.

• Can be made in advance and stored, giving flexibility for preparation.

• A crowd‐pleaser that satisfies cheesecake lovers and caramel enthusiasts alike.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuit crumbs)

• unsalted butter, melted

• cream cheese, softened

• granulated sugar

• vanilla extract

• eggs

• sour cream or heavy cream

• pecans, chopped and toasted

• caramel sauce

directions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8×8‑inch (20×20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving edges overhanging to facilitate lifting the bars.

2. Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter; press mixture firmly into the bottom of prepared pan to form crust. Bake crust for about 10 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from oven and allow to cool while preparing filling.

3. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add vanilla extract, then beat in eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.

4. Fold in sour cream (or heavy cream) and toasted pecans. Pour cheesecake mixture over cooled crust, spreading evenly.

5. Bake in preheated oven for approximately 35‑40 minutes, until edges are set but centre still slightly jiggly. Do not overbake.

6. Remove from oven and allow bars to cool at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to set fully.

7. Before serving, pour caramel sauce over top, spreading evenly. Slice into bars using a sharp knife warmed under hot water and wiped dry for clean cuts.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 12 bars

• Preparation time: 20 minutes

• Baking time: about 40 minutes

• Chilling time: at least 4 hours (preferably overnight)

Variations

• Use salted caramel sauce instead of regular caramel for a sweet‑and‑salty contrast.

• Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds, toasted, for different nut flavour and texture.

• Add a layer of chocolate ganache beneath the caramel for a chocolate‑caramel twist.

• Infuse filling with a hint of cinnamon or pumpkin spice for seasonal variation.

• Use a cookie crust (such as shortbread or gingersnap) instead of graham cracker for extra flavour.

storage/reheating

• Storage: Keep bars covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Use airtight container to maintain moisture and avoid absorbing other odours.

• To freeze, wrap individual bars or the entire slab in plastic wrap, then foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

• Reheating (optional): If desired, bring to room temperature before serving. Warm briefly in a low oven (around 300°F / 150°C) for 5‑10 minutes to revive the texture, but avoid melting the caramel excessively.

FAQs

What type of cream cheese works best?

Use full‑fat cream cheese that has been softened to room temperature. It yields the creamiest texture and prevents lumps in the filling.

Can I make the crust gluten‑free?

Yes. Use gluten‑free graham crackers or gluten‑free digestive biscuits for crumbs. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten‑free.

How do I prevent cracks in the cheesecake filling?

Avoid overmixing once eggs are added, bake at moderate temperature, and do not open the oven door while baking. Cooling slowly also helps to minimize cracks.

Can I use store‑bought caramel sauce?

Certainly. A good quality store‑bought caramel sauce saves time. Warm it slightly before pouring to improve flow over the bars.

How long does the caramel topping stay stable?

Caramel topping stays stable in refrigeration for several days. If it becomes too firm, bring to room temperature or gently warm before serving.

Can I omit the nuts for a nut‑free version?

Yes. Simply leave out the pecans or substitute with toasted seeds (such as pumpkin seeds) if tolerated. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

Is it possible to make these bars ahead?

Absolutely. The bars can be baked a day in advance, chilled overnight, and caramel added just before serving to maintain fresh appearance.

How should I cut clean bars?

Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry before slicing. Clean the blade between cuts for neat edges.

Can I reduce sugar for a less sweet dessert?

You may reduce granulated sugar in the filling by about ¼ cup without severely affecting texture. However, caramel sauce is sweet; choose a less sweet brand or homemade version accordingly.

What if the centre is still jiggly after baking?

The centre will continue to set while cooling and during refrigeration. If it is only slightly jiggly and edges are set, allow full chilling before assessing firmness.

Conclusion

Caramel Pecan Cheesecake Bars are an elegant dessert that bring together creamy cheesecake filling, crunchy toasted pecans, buttery crust, and rich caramel in harmonious layers. With relatively simple preparation and the ability to plan ahead, they are well suited for special occasions or any time you wish to indulge. Whether served chilled or slightly warmed, they make a memorable treat for family, friends, or guests.