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Decadent Salted Caramel Brownie Cheesecake Bars

salted caramel brownie cheesecake bars - featured image

These salted caramel brownie cheesecake bars combine a fudgy brownie base, creamy cheesecake layer, and a homemade salted caramel drizzle for a rich, indulgent dessert that’s quick and easy to make.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup (113 g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 3/4 cup (95 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup (35 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) sour cream
  • 1/3 cup (67 g) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar (for caramel)
  • 6 tbsp (85 g) unsalted butter, cubed (for caramel)
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream, warmed (for caramel)
  • 1 tsp sea salt (adjust to taste)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter and 1 cup granulated sugar until combined, about 1-2 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract.
  3. In a separate bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, and 1/4 tsp salt. Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet mixture using a rubber spatula until just combined. Do not overmix.
  4. Pour brownie batter into prepared pan and smooth evenly. Bake for 18-20 minutes until edges are set but center is slightly soft.
  5. While brownie bakes, beat softened cream cheese in a medium bowl with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Add sour cream, 1/3 cup sugar, 1 egg, and 1 tsp vanilla extract; mix until just combined and silky.
  6. Pour cheesecake layer gently over warm brownie base and spread evenly.
  7. Return pan to oven and bake for another 25-30 minutes until cheesecake layer is mostly set but slightly jiggly in center. Let cool completely in pan on wire rack.
  8. To make salted caramel sauce, melt 1 cup sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until liquefied and deep amber color.
  9. Quickly add 6 tbsp cubed butter, stirring until melted and combined.
  10. Slowly pour in warm 1/2 cup heavy cream while stirring (mixture will bubble). Remove from heat, stir in 1 tsp sea salt, and allow to cool slightly.
  11. Once bars are cooled, drizzle salted caramel sauce generously over top.
  12. Chill bars in refrigerator for at least 2 hours to set before slicing.
  13. For clean slices, run a sharp knife under hot water, dry it, and slice; repeat between cuts.

Notes

Do not overmix cheesecake batter to avoid cracks. Watch brownie bake time closely to keep fudgy texture. Make caramel slowly to prevent burning. Use room temperature eggs and cream cheese for smooth blending. Chill bars sufficiently for best texture. Use a hot knife for clean slicing.

Nutrition

Keywords: salted caramel, brownie, cheesecake, dessert bars, easy dessert, caramel drizzle, fudgy brownie, creamy cheesecake