Description
These Butterscotch Cheesecake Bars are an irresistible treat that combines the comforting warmth of butterscotch with the creamy decadence of cheesecake. Imagine a buttery, graham cracker crust infused with rich butterscotch flavor, topped with a smooth and tangy cheesecake filling, and finished with a sprinkle of buttery-sweet butterscotch crumble. Each bite is a symphony of textures and flavors, making these bars a perfect dessert for any occasion – from casual get-togethers to celebratory feasts. This recipe is designed to be straightforward and easy to follow, making it accessible to bakers of all skill levels. You don’t need to be a pastry chef to create these delightful bars that are sure to impress. They’re also incredibly versatile; you can easily customize them with different toppings or variations to suit your personal preferences. Think chopped nuts, a drizzle of chocolate, or even a hint of sea salt to enhance the flavors.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons to fall in love with these Butterscotch Cheesecake Bars. Firstly, the butterscotch flavor is absolutely divine! It’s a warm, comforting, and slightly nostalgic taste that brings back memories of childhood candies and cozy evenings. The combination of butterscotch with the tangy creaminess of the cheesecake filling is a match made in heaven. Secondly, the recipe is incredibly simple and quick to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up a batch of these bars in no time. The simplicity of the recipe doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture; in fact, it’s the simplicity that allows the butterscotch and cheesecake to truly shine. Thirdly, these bars are incredibly versatile and customizable. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your dietary needs or preferences. For example, you can use gluten-free graham crackers for a gluten-free version, or add a swirl of caramel sauce to the cheesecake filling for an extra layer of decadence.
Finally, these Butterscotch Cheesecake Bars are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. They’re perfect for potlucks, parties, or any occasion where you want to impress your friends and family with a delicious and easy-to-make dessert. The combination of flavors and textures is so appealing that even the most discerning palates will be won over. Prepare to be bombarded with requests for the recipe!
Ingredients:
- Cooking spray
- 1 package (11 ounces) of butterscotch chips
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter
- 2 cups of graham cracker crumbs
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk (like Eagle Brand®)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the bars bake evenly and the cheesecake filling sets properly. Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. This prevents the bars from sticking to the pan and makes it easier to remove them after baking. Make sure you coat the entire pan evenly, including the corners.
Step 2: In a medium saucepan, combine the butterscotch chips and butter. Cook over low heat, stirring frequently, until the chips and butter are completely melted and smooth. It’s crucial to use low heat to prevent the butterscotch from burning or scorching. Stir constantly to ensure even melting and to prevent the mixture from sticking to the bottom of the pan. This process should take about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the graham cracker crumbs until evenly combined. The mixture should resemble damp sand. Make sure to break up any large clumps of graham cracker crumbs to ensure a smooth and consistent crust.
Step 4: Set aside 2/3 cup of the graham cracker-butterscotch mixture for topping. This will create a beautiful and flavorful crumble on top of the cheesecake bars. Press the remaining mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared baking dish to form the crust. Use the bottom of a measuring cup or a flat-bottomed glass to press the crust firmly and evenly. This creates a solid base for the cheesecake filling.
Step 5: In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. It’s essential to use softened cream cheese to prevent lumps in the filling. Beat the cream cheese on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until it’s light and airy. Add the sweetened condensed milk, egg, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix until well blended, being careful not to overmix. Overmixing can incorporate too much air into the filling, which can cause it to crack during baking.
Step 6: Pour the cream cheese mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to spread the filling evenly across the crust, ensuring that it reaches all corners of the pan. Sprinkle the reserved graham cracker-butterscotch mixture evenly over the top of the cream cheese filling.
Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges of the cheesecake should be slightly golden brown, and the center should be set but still have a slight jiggle.
Step 8: Remove the baking dish from the oven and let the cheesecake bars cool completely at room temperature. This allows the cheesecake filling to set properly and prevents it from cracking. Once cooled, cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This further chills the bars and enhances the flavors.
Step 9: Before serving, cut the cheesecake bars into squares using a sharp knife. For clean cuts, wipe the knife with a damp cloth after each slice.
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve chilled as a delightful dessert.
- Garnish with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Drizzle with melted butterscotch or caramel sauce.
- Sprinkle with chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts.
- Serve with a side of fresh berries for a burst of color and flavor.
- Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon treat.
Tips:
- Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Do not overmix the cheesecake filling, as this can cause it to crack during baking.
- If the crust starts to brown too quickly, tent the baking dish with aluminum foil.
- For a cleaner cut, chill the bars thoroughly before slicing.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To prevent the crust from becoming soggy, avoid storing the bars in a humid environment.
- For an even more intense Butterscotch flavor, consider using Butterscotch extract in the cheesecake filling. A 1/2 teaspoon should suffice.
- Adding a pinch of sea salt to the graham cracker-butterscotch mixture can enhance the sweetness and create a delightful salty-sweet contrast.
- Consider pressing the graham cracker crust into the pan to come slightly up the sides. This gives the bars a more polished look and keeps the filling contained.
- For a more festive look, you can add butterscotch chips to the top of the bars. Sprinkle these on top of the graham cracker mixture before baking.
Prep Time:
20 minutes
Cook Time:
25-30 minutes
Total Time:
45-50 minutes (plus chilling time)
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.)
- Calories: Approximately 300-350 per bar
- Protein: Approximately 5-7 grams per bar
- Sodium: Approximately 150-200 mg per bar
Conclusion
These Butterscotch Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat that’s easy to make and guaranteed to impress. With their creamy cheesecake filling, buttery-sweet butterscotch flavor, and customizable nature, they’re perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth or a crowd-pleasing treat for a party, these bars are sure to be a hit. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in the luscious goodness of Butterscotch Cheesecake Bars!
Questions and Answers
Q1: Can I use a different type of crust for these bars? A: Absolutely! While the graham cracker crust provides a classic and delicious base, you can certainly experiment with other options. For example, you could use a shortbread crust, a chocolate cookie crust, or even a crushed Oreo crust for a different flavor profile. Just be sure to adjust the amount of crust ingredients accordingly to fit the pan.
Q2: Can I make these bars ahead of time? A: Yes, you can definitely make these bars ahead of time! In fact, they taste even better when they’ve had a chance to chill in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together and the cheesecake filling to set properly. Simply bake the bars as directed, let them cool completely, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Q3: Can I freeze these Butterscotch Cheesecake Bars? A: Yes, these bars freeze well. To freeze them, first cool them completely and cut them into individual bars. Then, wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Place the wrapped bars in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to serve, thaw the bars in the refrigerator overnight.
Q4: What if my cheesecake filling cracks during baking? A: Cheesecake fillings can sometimes crack during baking due to rapid temperature changes or overbaking. To prevent this, make sure your oven temperature is accurate and avoid opening the oven door frequently during baking. Also, avoid overmixing the cheesecake filling, as this can incorporate too much air into it. If your cheesecake filling does crack, don’t worry! It won’t affect the flavor of the bars, and you can easily hide the cracks with the butterscotch crumble topping.
Q5: Can I reduce the sugar content in this recipe? A: While the sweetened condensed milk adds a significant amount of sweetness, you could try using a lower-sugar version of sweetened condensed milk, if available. You could also reduce the amount of butterscotch chips slightly. However, keep in mind that reducing the sugar content too much may affect the texture and flavor of the bars, so it’s best to make small adjustments and taste as you go.
