If you have a sweet tooth that craves layers of rich, creamy indulgence combined with a buttery crust and decadent chocolate, you are going to fall head over heels for these Millionaire’s Cheesecake Bars. Each bite brings together a luscious caramel-infused cheesecake atop a golden shortbread base, finished with a glossy dark chocolate ganache and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. This dessert is the ultimate luxury in bar form, perfect for impressing at gatherings or treating yourself to something truly special.

Millionaire's Cheesecake Bars Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and accessible, yet each plays a vital role in creating the sumptuous layers and textures of these Millionaire’s Cheesecake Bars. From the tender shortbread crust to the smooth, caramel-swirled cheesecake filling and decadent chocolate topping, every component harmonizes beautifully.

¾ cup plus 2 tbsp (120g) all-purpose flour: The foundation for a buttery and tender shortbread crust.

¼ cup (55g) packed light or dark brown sugar: Adds rich sweetness and depth to the crust.
¼ tsp salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.

⅓ cup (75g) unsalted butter, softened: Provides moisture and richness to the crust.
1 pkg (250g) brick cream cheese, softened: The creamy star of the cheesecake layer.

¼ cup (55g) packed dark brown sugar: Brings caramel undertones and sweetness to the filling.
1 large egg, at room temperature: Helps set the cheesecake filling with a smooth texture.
1 tsp (5ml) pure vanilla extract: Adds delicious aromatic warmth to the cheesecake.

¼ cup (60ml) Rich Salted Caramel Sauce: Injects rich, buttery caramel flavor directly into the filling.
⅓ cup (80ml) full fat sour cream: Keeps the cheesecake moist and adds subtle tang.
6 oz (170g) dark chocolate: For an ultra-smooth and shiny ganache topping.

½ cup (120ml) heavy 35% whipping cream: Creates a rich base for the ganache.
1 tsp (5ml) corn syrup (optional): Helps give the ganache a gorgeous glossy finish.
2 tbsp (30ml) Rich Salted Caramel Sauce (for swirling on top): Adds visual appeal and extra caramel notes.

Flaky sea salt: The perfect finishing touch to balance sweetness and elevate flavors.

How to Make Millionaire’s Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Shortbread Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F, and line an 8×8-inch metal baking pan with parchment paper, leaving generous overhangs on all sides to help with easy lifting later. Combine the flour, brown sugar, and salt in a medium bowl, making sure to break up any lumps of sugar for an even texture. Add the softened butter and work it in with your fingertips until the mixture forms soft crumbs. Transfer this to your prepared pan and press firmly into an even layer with your fingers or an offset spatula. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the crust turns a beautiful golden color. Set it aside to cool slightly — you want it warm, not hot, as you move on to the next step.

Step 2: Lower the Oven Temperature and Make the Cheesecake Filling

Reduce your oven temperature to 300°F so the cheesecake layer bakes gently without cracking. Beat the softened cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth and creamy using an electric hand mixer. Add the dark brown sugar and vanilla extract, then beat until the mixture is silky and glossy—this is your sign that it’s perfectly combined. Next, beat in the room-temperature egg until smoothly incorporated. Blend in the rich salted caramel sauce to infuse the batter with that signature decadent flavor, followed by the sour cream for its perfect tang and creaminess.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake Layer

Pour the luscious filling over the slightly cooled shortbread crust, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Slide the pan into your oven and bake for 22 to 26 minutes until the edges are slightly browned and the center looks set but still matte—there should be no jiggle in the middle, but it won’t appear shiny like a traditional cheesecake. Once done, transfer the pan to a wire rack and let it cool completely before refrigerating for at least two hours to fully set the cheesecake layer.

Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache Topping

While the cheesecake chills, chop the dark chocolate into small pieces. Combine the heavy cream and optional corn syrup in a microwave-safe container and heat until just simmering. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and stir gently until it turns glossy and smooth. This ganache is what will bring the final layer of indulgence to your Millionaire’s Cheesecake Bars.

Step 5: Add the Ganache and Caramel Swirl

Pour the ganache evenly over the chilled cheesecake layer, spreading it gently with an offset spatula to cover completely. Warm the remaining salted caramel sauce slightly if it’s too thick to spoon easily, then add dollops of it on top of the ganache. Use a toothpick to swirl the caramel artistically without piercing too deep into the cheesecake below—the visual effect is stunning and makes these bars truly feel like a treat fit for a millionaire. Return the pan to the fridge and chill for at least two more hours until the ganache is firm and set.

Step 6: Slice and Finish

When ready to serve, lift the bars out using the parchment overhangs and place on a cutting board. Use a hot, dry knife to cut through the layers cleanly; wiping the knife between cuts will give you perfect squares. For the finishing touch, lightly sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top to accentuate the rich caramel and chocolate flavors and provide that extra hint of sophistication.

How to Serve Millionaire’s Cheesecake Bars

Garnishes

Sprinkling flaky sea salt over the top brings out the caramel’s buttery richness and contrasts beautifully with the dark chocolate ganache. You can also add a few toasted crushed pecans or a dusting of cocoa powder for added texture and flavor. Fresh berries such as raspberries or sliced strawberries add a pop of color and light acidity that pairs perfectly with the decadent sweetness.

Side Dishes

Millionaire’s Cheesecake Bars are rich and luxurious, so pairing them with something light works best. A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or lightly whipped cream helps tame the richness while adding a creamy, cooling element. For an elegant touch, a simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette served beforehand balances the dessert well by refreshing the palate.

Creative Ways to Present

Cutting these bars into small squares or rectangles makes them ideal for dessert platters or buffet-style serving. You can also serve them on individual dessert plates with a drizzle of extra salted caramel or chocolate sauce for flair. For parties, arrange them on a tiered stand with little decorative flags or edible gold leaf accents for that millionaire-worthy presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Millionaire’s Cheesecake Bars keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. The flavors actually develop and meld more over time, so they taste even more irresistible the next day. Just be sure to keep them chilled to maintain the ganache’s smooth texture and prevent the crust from becoming soggy.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these bars later, they freeze very well. Cut them into portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to one month. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator to retain their creamy texture without losing any of the decadent flavor.

Reheating

These bars are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature rather than warmed. If you do prefer a slightly softer texture, let them sit out for 15 to 30 minutes after removing from the fridge. Avoid microwaving, as this can cause the ganache to become oily or the crust to become overly soft.

FAQs

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate for the ganache?

Absolutely. Milk chocolate will make the ganache sweeter and creamier, which some people prefer for a milder chocolate flavor. Just be aware that the sweetness level will increase, so you might want to adjust other caramel elements accordingly.

Is it necessary to use the corn syrup in the ganache?

Corn syrup is optional but highly recommended because it helps the ganache achieve a glossy, smooth finish and prevents it from crystallizing. If you don’t have it on hand, you can leave it out, but your ganache may look slightly less shiny.

Can I make the salted caramel sauce from scratch?

You definitely can and it’s delicious when homemade. However, store-bought salted caramel sauce works perfectly and saves a lot of time. Just make sure it’s a good quality sauce with a nice balance of salt to sweetness.

What if I don’t have sour cream? Can I substitute it?

You can substitute sour cream with an equal amount of Greek yogurt for a similar tang and creaminess, or even crème fraîche. Plain yogurt can work but with slightly less richness.

How thin should I roll out the crust when pressing it into the pan?

You want the crust to be compact and pressed evenly but not paper-thin. About a quarter-inch thickness is ideal to provide a buttery base that holds up under the cheesecake and ganache layers without overpowering the dessert.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a dessert that radiates decadence and makes every bite a celebration, these Millionaire’s Cheesecake Bars should be your go-to recipe. They bring together the perfect balance of buttery, creamy, and chocolatey flavors in an easy-to-make format that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Trust me, once you share these with friends and family, they’ll be begging you to make them again and again.