Butterscotch Cheesecake Bars

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Line an 18x28cm baking dish with parchment paper.

   Tip: Optional: grease the parchment paper with butter or cooking spray for easier removal.

2. 2

   In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and brown sugar.

   Tip: Mix well to combine.

3. 3

   Add cold butter to the bowl and use a pastry blender or your fingertips to work it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

   Tip: Be careful not to overwork the mixture.

4. 4

   Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.

   Tip: Use your fingers or the back of a spoon to shape the crust.

5. 5

   Bake the crust for 15 minutes.

   Tip: Set aside to cool slightly.

6. 6

   In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.

   Tip: Add the softened butter and beat until combined.

7. 7

   Gradually add the granulated sugar and beat until well combined.

   Tip: Beat in the butterscotch sauce until smooth.

8. 8

   Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.

   Tip: Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

9. 9

   Pour the cheesecake batter into the cooled crust.

   Tip: Smooth the top with a spatula.

10. 10

    Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.

    Tip: Avoid overbaking.

11. 11

    Let the bars cool completely in the baking dish.

    Tip: Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.

12. 12

    Cut into bars and serve.

    Tip: Optional: dust with powdered sugar or serve with whipped cream.