Looking to add a sweet, indulgent treat to your weekly meal plan? Say hello to Salted Caramel Cheesecake Bars—a creamy, dreamy dessert that brings together the richness of cheesecake, the buttery goodness of a graham cracker crust, and the irresistible decadence of salted caramel.
These bars are the perfect make-ahead dessert for busy weeks, dinner parties, or when you simply need a little pick-me-up in your day.
Why Salted Caramel Cheesecake Bars Belong in Your Meal Plan
Dessert isn't just a bonus—it's part of a balanced meal plan that includes variety, joy, and satisfaction. These cheesecake bars are:
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Perfectly portioned – great for grab-and-go treats or packed lunches
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Make-ahead friendly – they keep beautifully in the fridge
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Crowd-pleasing – who doesn't love cheesecake and caramel?
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Versatile – serve them at family dinners, parties, or as a weekday indulgence
Whether you're meal prepping or planning a special weekend meal, these bars are a sweet addition you won't regret.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need fancy ingredients—just pantry staples and a little time.
For the crust:
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1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
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¼ cup granulated sugar
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½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake filling:
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16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
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½ cup granulated sugar
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2 large eggs
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1 tsp vanilla extract
For the salted caramel:
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½ cup granulated sugar
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3 tbsp unsalted butter
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¼ cup heavy cream
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½ tsp sea salt (adjust to taste)
How to Make Salted Caramel Cheesecake Bars
Step 1: Make the crust
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Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
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Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
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Press into a parchment-lined 8x8 inch baking pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.
Step 2: Make the cheesecake layer
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Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
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Add eggs and vanilla, and mix until creamy.
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Pour over the cooled crust and smooth the top.
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Bake for 30–35 minutes or until set with a slight jiggle in the center.
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Cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours.
Step 3: Make the salted caramel
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In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar until it turns amber.
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Stir in butter until melted. Slowly whisk in cream and cook for 1–2 more minutes.
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Remove from heat, stir in salt, and let cool slightly before drizzling over chilled bars.
Meal Plan Pro Tip: Make Once, Enjoy All Week
These bars are a meal plan superstar:
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Make a batch on Sunday and enjoy all week long
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Store individually wrapped bars in the fridge or freezer
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Pair with coffee or tea for an afternoon boost
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Pack in lunchboxes for a mid-day treat
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Freeze for later – just thaw overnight in the fridge when you're ready
Storage Tips
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Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days
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Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge
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Serving tip: Let bars sit at room temp for 10–15 minutes before serving for the creamiest texture
Variations to Try
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Swap graham crackers for crushed Oreos or vanilla wafers
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Add chopped pecans or almonds to the crust for extra crunch
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Mix a swirl of caramel into the cheesecake before baking for a marbled effect
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Top with flaky sea salt for that extra gourmet touch
Final Thoughts
If you’re crafting a meal plan that balances nourishment with enjoyment, Salted Caramel Cheesecake Bars are the dessert that delivers both. Rich, creamy, and just the right amount of salty-sweet, they’re easy to make, hard to resist, and even easier to store. A batch of these in your fridge or freezer is like having a bakery on standby—ready whenever you need a slice of happiness.
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