Butterscotch Cheesecake Bars are a delightful dessert featuring a rich butterscotch and graham cracker crust, a creamy cheesecake filling, and a crunchy butterscotch topping. These bars are the perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and crunchy, making them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and indulgent: The combination of butterscotch and cheesecake creates a luxurious texture and flavor.
- Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for beginner bakers.
- Perfect for gatherings: These bars are great for potlucks, holiday parties, and family get-togethers.
- Make-ahead friendly: They taste even better after chilling, making them a convenient dessert option.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 package butterscotch chips (11oz/270g)
- ½ cup salted butter
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1 package cream cheese (8oz/250g), softened
- 1 ¾ cups sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butterscotch chips and butter together. Stir in the graham cracker crumbs and chopped pecans.
- Press half of the mixture into the prepared baking pan to form the crust.
- In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until fluffy. Mix in the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and egg until smooth.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust. Sprinkle the remaining butterscotch crumb mixture on top.
- Bake for 25 minutes until the cheesecake is set.
- Let the bars cool to room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12 bars
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Chocolate twist: Add chocolate chips to the butterscotch layer for a richer flavor.
- Nut-free option: Omit the pecans for an allergy-friendly version.
- Salted caramel topping: Drizzle salted caramel sauce over the bars for extra decadence.
- Spiced version: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the crust mixture for a warm, spiced flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Serving: These bars are best served chilled but can be left at room temperature for a few minutes before serving for a softer texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?
Yes, you can use crushed vanilla wafers, digestive biscuits, or shortbread cookies instead of graham crackers.
2. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars taste even better after chilling, so making them a day ahead is a great option.
3. Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted butter?
Yes, but you may want to add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
4. How do I prevent the cheesecake layer from cracking?
Avoid overbaking, and be sure to let the bars cool gradually before refrigerating.
5. Can I substitute another nut for pecans?
Yes, walnuts or almonds would work well in place of pecans.
6. Do I need to line the baking pan with parchment paper?
It’s not required, but lining the pan makes it easier to remove the bars for slicing.
7. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
You can, but the texture may be slightly less creamy. Full-fat cream cheese is recommended for the best results.
8. How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The edges should be slightly golden, and the center should be set but still slightly jiggly.
9. Can I add toppings to these bars?
Yes, try whipped cream, caramel drizzle, or extra butterscotch chips for added flavor.
10. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe and bake it in two separate pans for larger gatherings.
Conclusion
Butterscotch Cheesecake Bars are a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet, caramel-like flavor of butterscotch. Whether you serve them at a special occasion or enjoy them as a treat for yourself, these bars are sure to be a hit. Try them today and indulge in their irresistible flavor!
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Easy Butterscotch Cheesecake Bars
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Butterscotch Cheesecake Bars are the perfect dessert for butterscotch lovers! With a buttery graham cracker and pecan crust, a rich and creamy cheesecake filling, and a crunchy butterscotch topping, these bars are an irresistible treat. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or any time you crave a sweet, decadent dessert!
Ingredients
- 1 package (11oz/270g) butterscotch chips
- 1/2 cup salted butter
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1 package (8oz/250g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 3/4 cups sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butterscotch chips and butter together. Stir until smooth.
- Mix in the graham cracker crumbs and chopped pecans, then press half of the mixture into the prepared baking pan.
- In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until fluffy using a hand mixer.
- Add the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and egg to the cream cheese and mix until smooth.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the graham cracker crust in the pan.
- Sprinkle the remaining butterscotch-pecan mixture evenly on top.
- Bake for 25 minutes, or until set.
- Let cool to room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator before serving.
Notes
- For an extra crunch, toast the pecans before mixing them in.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Want more butterscotch flavor? Drizzle melted butterscotch chips on top before serving!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
