Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars are like a sweet hug for your taste buds, combining the creamy richness of cheesecake with the caramel-like goodness of dulce de leche. Imagine biting into a slice, where each mouthful is a melt-in-your-mouth experience that transports you to dessert paradise.
Every time I make these bars, I can’t help but reminisce about the first time I shared them at a family gathering. The looks on everyone’s faces were priceless—pure bliss mixed with disbelief that something so delicious could come from my humble kitchen. These bars are perfect for parties, potlucks, or just when you need a little pick-me-up after a long day.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for any skill level
- With their rich, creamy texture and sweet caramel flavor, they’re sure to impress everyone
- Visually stunning with a golden top, they’re irresistible on any dessert table
- Ideal for sharing at gatherings or indulging in solo binge-watching sessions
I remember one holiday season when I brought these bars to my aunt’s house. Everyone raved about them, and I’ve been asked to bring them every year since.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Graham Cracker Crumbs: Choose finely crushed crumbs for a smooth crust that holds together perfectly.
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Unsalted Butter: Melted butter helps bind the crust and adds richness; make sure it’s fresh.
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Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese creates that dreamy cheesecake texture; opt for full-fat for the best results.
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Dulce de Leche: This sweet caramel-like treat adds flavor; homemade or store-bought works well.
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Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the cheesecake; adjust based on your sweetness preference.
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Eggs: Room temperature eggs help create a smooth batter; they whip better than cold ones.
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Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract enhances the flavor profile; avoid imitation for better taste.
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Salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness perfectly; don’t skip it!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Prepare Your Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Create the Crust: In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until it resembles wet sand. Press this mixture evenly into the prepared pan using your fingers or a flat-bottomed measuring cup.
Make the Cheesecake Filling: In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add sugar and continue mixing until well combined and creamy without lumps.
Add Dulce de Leche and Eggs: Fold in dulce de leche and vanilla extract into the cream cheese mixture until blended. Then, add eggs one at a time while mixing gently to keep it airy.
Bake Until Set and Golden Brown: Pour the cheesecake filling over your prepared crust and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until slightly jiggly in the center but set around the edges.
Cool Down and Chill Out!: Remove from oven and let cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 4 hours (or overnight). This step is crucial for setting those flavors!
These steps will guide you through creating these delightful bars that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
You Must Know
- The secret to the best Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars lies in using room temperature ingredients for a smooth batter
- The sweet aroma of caramelized milk will fill your kitchen, creating an irresistible invitation to indulge
- Perfectly balanced, these bars are creamy yet light, a true delight!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven while preparing the crust and filling. Bake the crust first, then mix the cheesecake filling to ensure even cooking and a perfect texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap graham crackers with digestive biscuits for the crust or add a pinch of sea salt atop the bars for an extra flavor kick that elevates sweetness.
Storing & Reheating
Store these cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. You can serve them cold or let them sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before enjoying.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve a silky texture in your Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars, blend until very smooth
- Avoid overbaking; they should jiggle slightly in the center when done
- Always allow bars to cool completely before slicing for perfect pieces
Sharing my first attempt at making Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars was quite a spectacle—my friends devoured every last crumb, leaving me wondering if I should start charging admission for taste tests!
FAQ
What is dulce de leche?
Dulce de leche is a sweet caramel-like sauce made from slowly heating sweetened milk.
Can I use store-bought dulce de leche?
Absolutely! Store-bought dulce de leche saves time and still delivers delicious flavor.
How do I know when cheesecake bars are done?
The bars are done when they are set but slightly jiggly in the center; they’ll firm up as they cool.
Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
Description
Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars are a heavenly dessert that perfectly blends creamy cheesecake and rich caramel flavors. Each bite offers a melt-in-your-mouth experience, making these bars an irresistible treat for any occasion. They’re simple to make, visually stunning, and sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or indulging in a sweet moment alone, these decadent bars will transport you to dessert paradise.
Ingredients
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 16 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup dulce de leche (store-bought or homemade)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
- In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar and mix until creamy.
- Fold in dulce de leche and vanilla extract. Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust and bake for 30-35 minutes, until set around the edges but slightly jiggly in the center.
- Allow cooling at room temperature before refrigerating for at least four hours or overnight.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (60g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
