Caramel Mocha Cheesecake Bars are a decadent dessert that combines the rich flavors of coffee, chocolate, and caramel with a smooth, creamy cheesecake filling. With a buttery chocolate cookie crust, a mocha-infused cheesecake layer, and a luscious caramel drizzle, these bars are perfect for coffee lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike. Whether for a special occasion or an indulgent treat, these bars are guaranteed to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect Balance of Flavors – Coffee, chocolate, and caramel come together beautifully.
- Easy to Make – Simple steps and no water bath required.
- Great for Any Occasion – Ideal for parties, holidays, or as a luxurious everyday treat.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – These bars taste even better after chilling overnight.
- Portable and Shareable – A great dessert option for gatherings or gifting.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the crust:
- Chocolate sandwich cookies (such as Oreos), crushed
- Unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake filling:
- Cream cheese, softened
- Granulated sugar
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- Instant espresso powder (or strong brewed coffee)
- Cocoa powder
- Heavy cream
For the topping:
- Caramel sauce
- Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Prepare the crust: In a bowl, mix crushed chocolate cookies with melted butter until combined. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let it cool.
- Make the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract, espresso powder, cocoa powder, and heavy cream until well combined.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and spread evenly. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
- Cool and chill: Let the bars cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight).
- Add caramel drizzle: Before serving, drizzle caramel sauce over the top and garnish with chocolate shavings if desired.
- Slice and serve: Cut into squares and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12 bars
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Chilling Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: Approximately 5 hours
Variations
- Salted Caramel Version: Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the caramel drizzle for a sweet-savory contrast.
- Extra Chocolatey: Add chocolate chips to the cheesecake batter or drizzle with melted chocolate.
- Nutty Twist: Top with chopped toasted pecans or hazelnuts for added crunch.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free chocolate cookies for the crust.
- No-Bake Version: Use a no-bake cheesecake filling and let the bars set in the fridge instead of baking.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze individual bars in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
- Reheating: These bars are best served chilled, so no reheating is needed.
FAQs
Can I use regular coffee instead of espresso powder?
Yes, but espresso powder provides a stronger, richer coffee flavor. If using brewed coffee, reduce other liquid ingredients slightly.
How do I prevent my cheesecake bars from cracking?
Avoid overmixing the batter, don’t overbake, and let them cool gradually before refrigerating.
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Yes, but homemade caramel sauce will give a richer flavor.
How do I get clean slices?
Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat, even bars.
Can I use a different crust?
Yes! Graham cracker, shortbread, or brownie crusts work well.
How strong is the coffee flavor?
It’s a subtle mocha flavor, but you can increase or decrease the espresso powder based on your preference.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, double the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan. Adjust the baking time slightly.
Do I have to chill them overnight?
Chilling overnight allows the flavors to develop, but a minimum of 4 hours will work.
Can I make these bars without cocoa powder?
Yes, but they’ll have more of a coffee cheesecake flavor rather than mocha.
What toppings go well with these bars?
Whipped cream, crushed nuts, or chocolate curls make great additions!
Conclusion
Caramel Mocha Cheesecake Bars are the perfect blend of rich chocolate, smooth coffee, and sweet caramel. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or as an indulgent treat, these bars are sure to impress. Easy to prepare and even better when made ahead, this dessert is a must-try for coffee and cheesecake lovers alike
Print
A rich and indulgent dessert featuring layers of chocolate, coffee-flavored cheesecake, and caramel drizzle.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 4 hrs
- Total Time: 4 hrs 20 mins
- Yield: 12 bars 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups crushed chocolate cookies
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tbsp instant coffee powder
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate shavings
Instructions
- Mix crushed cookies and butter, pressing into a baking dish. Chill for 10 minutes.
- Beat cream cheese, sugar, and coffee powder.
- Whip heavy cream and fold into the cheesecake mixture.
- Spread over the crust and chill for 4 hours.
- Drizzle with caramel and top with chocolate shavings before serving.
Notes
- Use espresso powder for a stronger coffee flavor.
- Store in the fridge for up to 5 days.