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Turtle Cheesecake Bars

Turtle Cheesecake Bars
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Turtle Cheesecake Bars combine creamy cheesecake, rich chocolate, gooey caramel, and crunchy pecans into a delicious layered dessert. Perfect for sharing or enjoying solo, these bars offer a perfect blend of textures and flavors with easy preparation and make-ahead convenience.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 6 tablespoons butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling

  • 16 ounces full-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Toppings and Add-ins

  • 1 cup chopped pecans, lightly toasted
  • 1 cup chocolate chips or chunks
  • 1/2 cup caramel sauce, plus extra for drizzling

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crust: Mix the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until evenly combined. Press firmly into the bottom of a lined 8×8 or 9×9 inch baking pan to create a sturdy base that will hold the cheesecake filling.
  2. Make the cheesecake filling: Beat softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, blending well after each addition, then stir in vanilla extract for fragrance and flavor.
  3. Assemble layers: Pour half of the cheesecake filling over the crust. Sprinkle a layer of chopped pecans and chocolate chips evenly across the filling, then drizzle a generous amount of caramel sauce. Pour the remaining cheesecake mixture on top and finish with another layer of nuts, chocolate, and caramel drizzle to create a rich and beautiful layered effect.
  4. Bake to perfection: Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for 35-40 minutes, until the cheesecake is set but slightly jiggly in the center. Allow bars to cool completely to ensure clean slicing.
  5. Chill and serve: Refrigerate the bars for at least 4 hours or overnight to let flavors meld and the texture firm up. Cut into squares and enjoy your Turtle Cheesecake Bars.

Notes

  • Use softened cream cheese and eggs at room temperature for a smooth batter.
  • Press the crust firmly to prevent crumbling when slicing.
  • Do not overbake; the center should have a slight jiggle for creamy texture.
  • Toast pecans lightly to enhance their nutty flavor and crunch.
  • Use high quality caramel sauce and chocolate for the best taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: Turtle Cheesecake Bars, cheesecake bars, caramel dessert, chocolate pecan bars, easy cheesecake recipe, make ahead dessert

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/turtle-cheesecake-bars/