Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars

If you love sweet treats, then Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars are a must-try! This delicious dessert combines the rich flavors of butterscotch and cream cheese, all nestled in a crunchy graham cracker crust. They are easy to make and perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe for Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars is special for several reasons. First, it brings a unique twist to the regular cheesecake by adding butterscotch chips, which give it a lovely caramel-like sweetness. Second, they are simple to prepare, making them an excellent option for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. Finally, these bars are great for sharing with friends or family, making any occasion feel even sweeter.

How to Make Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars

Ingredients:

11 ounces butterscotch chips
1/2 cup unsalted butter
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
8 ounces cream cheese, very well softened to room temperature
1 large egg
1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with aluminum foil and spray it lightly with cooking spray.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butterscotch chips and butter together over medium heat. Stir frequently for about 5 minutes until it’s smooth.
Mix in the graham cracker crumbs, but reserve 1 heaping cup for later. Press the remaining mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan to form the crust.
In a stand mixer or using a handheld electric mixer, beat the cream cheese until it’s smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add the egg, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt to the cream cheese. Mix everything together until well combined.
Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust in the pan and sprinkle the reserved butterscotch mixture on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 32-35 minutes or until the top is set and feels springy to the touch. The center may still be slightly jiggly.
Let the bars cool in the pan for 1 hour at room temperature. Then, cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

How to Serve Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars

Serve these bars chilled right from the refrigerator. They are best sliced into squares or rectangles, making them easy to pick up and enjoy. You can also drizzle extra butterscotch sauce on top for an extra touch of sweetness!

How to Store Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator. Place them in an airtight container or cover them well with plastic wrap to maintain freshness. They will stay delicious for up to five days.

Tips to Make Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars

Make sure your cream cheese is very soft before mixing. This will help achieve a smooth texture.
Don’t skip reserving some graham cracker mixture for the topping; it adds a nice crunch.
If you want a stronger butterscotch flavor, consider adding a few extra butterscotch chips to the cheesecake filling.

Variation

For a nutty flavor, add some chopped pecans or walnuts to the graham cracker crust. You can also try adding chocolate chips for a chocolate-butterscotch combination!

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?
A: Yes! You can use digestive biscuits or Oreo cookies for a different flavor in the crust.

Q: Can I freeze these bars?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cheesecake bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Make sure to eat them within a month for the best taste.

Q: Can I make this recipe without sweetened condensed milk?
A: Sweetened condensed milk is key to the creamy texture. However, you could try using a homemade version or substitutes like a mixture of cream and sugar, but it may change the texture of the cheesecake filling.