Butterscotch Cream Cheese Bars Recipe
These Butterscotch Cream Cheese Bars are the perfect dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your guests. Whether you’re preparing a family-friendly treat for a casual brunch or a delightful dessert for a party, these bars are easy to make and full of rich, indulgent flavors. The buttery graham cracker crust pairs perfectly with the creamy, slightly tangy cream cheese filling, while the sweet butterscotch and crunchy pecans provide just the right balance of sweetness and texture.
Ready in just under 45 minutes, these bars are a hit with both kids and adults, making them ideal for large gatherings or a sweet treat after dinner. Let’s get started!
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter | 1 cup |
| Graham cracker crumbs | 1/2 cup |
| Cream cheese (softened) | 2 (8 oz) blocks |
| Sweetened condensed milk | 1 can (14 oz) |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Egg | 1 large |
| Pecans (chopped) | 1/2 cup |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 247.6 kcal |
| Fat | 16.1 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 34 mg |
| Sodium | 132.1 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 23.4 g |
| Fiber | 0.6 g |
| Sugar | 19.6 g |
| Protein | 3.3 g |
Recipe Instructions:
-
Prepare the Crust:
Begin by melting the butterscotch chips and butter together over low heat in a medium-sized pan. Stir occasionally to ensure the mixture is smooth and well combined. -
Mix the Crust:
Once the butterscotch chips have fully melted, remove the pan from the heat. Add the graham cracker crumbs and mix until the crumbs are evenly coated in the buttery butterscotch mixture. -
Reserve Some Crumbs:
Set aside about 2/3 cup of the crumb mixture for the topping. You’ll use this later to add a delightful crunch on top of the bars. -
Press the Crust:
Take the remaining crumb mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of a greased 13×9 inch glass baking dish. Ensure the crumbs are evenly distributed, creating a solid base for your bars. -
Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling:
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer. The texture should be smooth and creamy. -
Add the Sweetened Condensed Milk:
Slowly add the sweetened condensed milk to the cream cheese, continuing to beat until well combined. This will give the filling its smooth, creamy texture. -
Add Flavor and Egg:
Stir in the vanilla extract for a burst of flavor, then add the egg. Beat the mixture on low speed just until the egg is fully incorporated. -
Fold in the Pecans:
Gently fold in the chopped pecans to the cream cheese mixture. The nuts add a lovely crunch and earthy flavor to contrast with the creamy filling. -
Assemble the Bars:
Pour the cream cheese mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust in the prepared pan. Spread it out gently to cover the crust entirely. -
Add the Topping:
Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture over the top of the cream cheese layer. This will create a beautiful, slightly crunchy topping as the bars bake. -
Bake the Bars:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges should be golden brown, and the center should be set but still slightly firm. -
Cool and Chill:
Allow the bars to cool to room temperature on a wire rack. Once cooled, refrigerate them for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the bars to set. -
Serve:
After chilling, cut the Butterscotch Cream Cheese Bars into squares. Serve them cold for the best texture and flavor. These bars are perfect for sharing at parties, picnics, or as a sweet snack to enjoy throughout the day.
Tips and Variations:
- For a Nut-Free Version: If you’re serving guests with nut allergies, simply omit the pecans from the recipe. You can replace them with additional graham cracker crumbs or chocolate chips for added flavor and texture.
- Make It Ahead: These bars are great for making ahead. Prepare them the day before your event, and they’ll be even better after chilling overnight.
- Garnish Ideas: For an extra touch, garnish the bars with a dusting of powdered sugar or drizzle with caramel sauce before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
These Butterscotch Cream Cheese Bars are perfect for a wide variety of occasions. Serve them at:
- Brunches and Breakfast Gatherings: Their sweet and creamy texture pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea.
- Potlucks and Parties: The bars are easily cut into squares, making them ideal for large groups.
- After-Dinner Dessert: Their rich flavor is the perfect ending to any meal, especially after a savory dinner.
Why You’ll Love These Bars:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 45 minutes, this recipe is perfect for beginner cooks and those short on time.
- Kid-Friendly: With their sweet butterscotch flavor and creamy texture, these bars are a hit with kids and adults alike.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual brunch or a holiday party, Butterscotch Cream Cheese Bars are sure to be the star of the show.
For more delicious dessert ideas and easy-to-follow recipes, visit lovewithrecipes.com!
