Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars
If you’ve ever wondered what dessert tastes like when chewy meets creamy, these Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars are your answer. They’re everything you want in a treat: indulgent, rich, nostalgic, and—best of all—easy to make at home. Whether you’re baking for a party, a potluck, or just because your sweet tooth whispered “butterscotch,” this recipe will deliver satisfaction in every single bite.
What sets these cheesecake bars apart is their double-duty graham cracker crust, velvety cream cheese filling, and the warm hug of melted butterscotch chips throughout. They’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser—simple to prepare but with bakery-quality results.
Not sure what makes butterscotch chips melt just right? Learn all the do’s and don’ts from this butterscotch melting guide to avoid grainy or seized mixtures.
Also curious about how cream cheese fits into your nutritional lifestyle? Check out this cream cheese nutrition breakdown for the full profile.
🍪 Ingredients: What You’ll Need For Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars
You probably have most of these pantry staples already! Let’s walk through what makes each one crucial:
- 11 oz butterscotch chips – The star of the show, providing deep caramel-like flavor
- ½ cup unsalted butter – Helps bind the crust and adds rich texture
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs – Brings the perfect crunch and nutty backdrop
- 8 oz cream cheese – Creates a creamy, tangy balance to all the sweetness
- 1 large egg – Holds the cheesecake filling together
- 14 oz can of sweetened condensed milk – Sweetens and thickens the filling
- 2 tsp vanilla extract – Adds warmth and aroma
- ½ tsp salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness
🧂 Equipment You’ll Want On Hand
Before you get started, make sure you’ve got the right tools:
- 9×9-inch baking dish
- Aluminum foil (for easy cleanup)
- Mixing bowls (one for the crust, one for the filling)
- Hand or stand mixer
- Rubber spatula or spoon
- Whisk and saucepan for melting chips
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions Of Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars
Let’s get baking! This recipe is broken into three parts: the crust, the cheesecake layer, and the topping.
1. Make the Crust and Topping
- In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butterscotch chips and butter together. Whisk frequently for at least 5 minutes.
- Once the mixture is 90–95% smooth, remove from heat and stir in graham cracker crumbs.
- Reserve 1 cup of this mixture for the topping.
- Press the remaining crust mixture evenly into a foil-lined and greased 9×9-inch pan.
2. Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
- In a bowl, beat cream cheese until soft and fluffy (2–3 minutes).
- Add the egg, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla, and salt. Beat until mostly smooth.
- Pour this filling over the crust.
3. Add the Topping and Bake
- Sprinkle the reserved butterscotch-graham crumb mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer.
- Bake at 350°F for 32–35 minutes, or until the top looks set but still jiggles slightly.
- Cool at room temperature for at least 1 hour.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing and serving.
🔥 Tips for Melting Butterscotch Chips Without a Mess
Butterscotch chips can be tricky! They don’t behave like chocolate. Here’s how to avoid common issues:
- Always melt on low to medium-low heat.
- Whisk constantly. This helps prevent the chips from seizing or burning.
- Don’t panic if it looks oily. Keep whisking—it usually smooths out.
- Use a heavy-bottomed pan. It distributes heat evenly.
- Avoid using a microwave unless you’re confident. The slow stovetop method is much safer.
🧊 Make-Ahead, Storage, and Freezing Tips
One of the best things about Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars—aside from their irresistible flavor—is how well they hold up over time. These bars are an excellent make-ahead dessert, perfect for busy bakers or when you’re planning for a party.
✅ Make-Ahead Tips
You can fully prepare the bars a day or two in advance. In fact, chilling overnight actually improves the texture, making the cheesecake layer firmer and the flavors more pronounced.
🧊 Refrigeration
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Layer parchment paper between them if stacking to prevent sticking. Always serve them cold for best results.
❄️ Freezing Instructions
Want to prep even further ahead? These bars freeze beautifully:
- Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap
- Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag
- Freeze for up to 3 months
To serve, just thaw them in the fridge overnight. The texture and flavor remain nearly identical to fresh!
With these tips, your butterscotch cheesecake bars are always ready when you are—whether it’s a holiday gathering or a Wednesday night treat. Bake once, enjoy anytime!
🍰 Serving Suggestions: Take It to the Next Level
These cheesecake bars are delicious on their own, but a few extras won’t hurt:
- Drizzle with salted caramel sauce
- Add a dollop of whipped cream
- Sprinkle with toasted pecans or sea salt flakes
- Serve with coffee or chai for a cozy dessert pairing
🛠️ Recipe Variations for Creative Bakers
Once you’ve mastered the classic Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars, why not get creative? This recipe is a perfect canvas for experimenting with flavors, textures, and mix-ins. Here are some fun, tasty variations to take your bars to the next level:
🥜 Peanut Butter Swirl
Add a peanut butter twist by swirling ¼ cup of creamy peanut butter into the cheesecake layer before baking. The salty, nutty flavor pairs beautifully with the sweet butterscotch and graham cracker crust for a rich, indulgent finish.
🍫 Chocolate Butterscotch Combo
Replace half of the butterscotch chips with semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a deeper, more balanced flavor. You’ll get the sweetness of butterscotch with the richness of chocolate—perfect for fans of layered dessert bars.
🧂 Salted Caramel Pretzel Crunch
Craving some crunch? Add crushed pretzels to the crust or sprinkle them on top before baking. After cooling, drizzle with salted caramel sauce. This adds a salty-sweet dynamic and irresistible texture contrast.
🍓 Fruit Swirl Cheesecake Bars
For a fruity take, swirl in 2 tablespoons of strawberry or raspberry jam into the cheesecake layer. It gives the bars a refreshing tartness and a pop of color—perfect for spring or summer events.
🌾 Gluten-Free Alternative
Use gluten-free graham crackers to make this recipe completely gluten-free. Be sure to check your butterscotch chips and other ingredients to confirm they’re gluten-free too.
These variations let you personalize your cheesecake bars for any occasion—from casual gatherings to festive celebrations. Mix, match, and experiment until you find your favorite version. The possibilities are endless when you start with a dessert this delicious!
⚠️ Mistakes to Avoid (So You Nail It Every Time)
Even though Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars are beginner-friendly, a few missteps can make the difference between gooey perfection and a baking flop. Here’s what to watch out for so you get flawless bars every time:
🔥 1. Overheating the Butterscotch Chips
One of the most common mistakes is using too much heat when melting butterscotch chips. These chips are delicate and can seize or separate if heated too quickly. Always melt them over medium-low heat and stir constantly. If the mixture looks oily or gritty, it’s likely overheated.
🧂 2. Skipping the Salt
With all the sweetness from the butterscotch and sweetened condensed milk, a bit of salt is essential to balance flavors. Don’t omit it—it’s the difference between one-note and well-rounded.
🥣 3. Undermixing the Cheesecake Layer
Not beating the cream cheese filling enough can result in unpleasant lumps. Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened and whip it until smooth before adding other ingredients. Scrape the bowl to ensure everything is well incorporated.
❄️ 4. Cutting Before Chilling
Patience pays off! Cutting your bars too soon results in a gooey mess. Let them cool completely, then chill for at least 2 hours (or overnight) before slicing.
🧁 5. Using a Pan That’s Too Large
Stick with a 9×9-inch pan unless doubling the recipe. A larger pan will make the bars too thin, drying out the crust and overcooking the filling.
Avoid these pitfalls, and you’ll be rewarded with perfect, chewy, creamy bars every single time!
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars
Can I make this without cream cheese?
Not really. Cream cheese is essential for the cheesecake texture. Substitutes won’t yield the same result.
How long do these bars last in the fridge?
They’ll stay fresh for up to a week if stored in an airtight container.
Can I use white chocolate chips instead of butterscotch?
You could, but they’ll lose the deep, caramel-like flavor that defines this dessert.
Do they need to be refrigerated?
Yes! The cream cheese filling requires refrigeration to stay safe and firm.
Can I double this recipe for a 9×13 pan?
Yes, just increase the baking time by a few minutes and monitor closely.
What if my crust turns into a sticky mess?
It likely means the butterscotch chips seized. Go low and slow with heat next time—and check that your chips aren’t expired.
❤️ Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dessert that blends comfort food nostalgia with gourmet bakery flair, these Butterscotch Graham Cracker Cheesecake Bars are exactly what you need. From their rich, chewy graham cracker crust to the smooth, tangy cheesecake layer and sweet butterscotch finish, every bite is a celebration of flavor and texture. They’re perfect for just about any occasion—holidays, potlucks, or simply a cozy night in.
The beauty of this recipe lies not just in its taste, but in its simplicity. With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can achieve mouthwatering results. Plus, it’s incredibly make-ahead friendly, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the moment.
And don’t forget—you can easily personalize this base recipe. Add a swirl of peanut butter, sprinkle on crushed nuts, or drizzle with caramel for a creative twist. Want more inspiration? Pair them with fruitier desserts like Strawberry Lemonade Bars or classic favorites like Creamy New York Cheesecake.
In the world of dessert bars, these butterscotch cheesecake squares are a deliciously unforgettable treat. One pan is never enough—so go ahead and make a double batch. You’ll be glad you did.
