Step 1: Prepare Your Equipment and Ingredients

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to easily lift the bars out later. This simple preparation step ensures your Caramel Cheesecake Bars will release perfectly, preserving their beautiful layers.

Step 2: Create the Perfect Crust

• In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and salt. Mix until the texture resembles wet sand and the ingredients are fully incorporated. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan.

Step 3: Pre-Bake the Crust

• Bake the crust for 10 minutes until it’s just beginning to turn golden at the edges. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly while preparing the filling. This quick pre-bake ensures your Caramel Cheesecake Bars will have a crisp, flavorful foundation.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

• In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese on medium speed until completely smooth, about 2 minutes. Add the sugar and continue beating until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl frequently to ensure a silky-smooth mixture.

Step 5: Finish the Cheesecake Mixture

• Add vanilla extract, sour cream, and flour to the cheesecake mixture. Beat on low speed just until incorporated. Over-mixing at this stage can incorporate too much air, potentially causing cracks in your final Caramel Cheesecake Bars.

Step 6: Pour and Prepare for Baking

• Pour the cheesecake filling over the slightly cooled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Give the pan a gentle tap on the counter to release any trapped air bubbles.

Step 7: Create the Caramel Swirl

• Warm your caramel sauce slightly if it’s too thick to pour. Drizzle about ¾ cup of the caramel sauce over the cheesecake batter. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the caramel into the cheesecake batter, creating a marbled effect.

Step 8: Bake with Care

• Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the edges appear set but the center still has a slight jiggle. This careful baking ensures your Caramel Cheesecake Bars will have that perfect creamy texture.

Step 9: Cool Properly

• Turn off the oven, crack the door open slightly, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for about 1 hour. This gradual cooling prevents the dramatic temperature change that can cause cracks.

Step 10: Chill Thoroughly

After cooling in the oven, remove the cheesecake and let it come to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the Caramel Cheesecake Bars to set completely.

Step 11: Slice and Serve

• Once chilled, lift the cheesecake out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. With a sharp knife (wiped clean between cuts), slice into bars of your desired size. Drizzle with the reserved caramel sauce just before serving for the ultimate Caramel Cheesecake Bars experience.