Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars

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Introduction

Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars are the perfect blend of creamy, indulgent cheesecake and rich, caramel-like sweetness that will satisfy any dessert lover. These bars are a decadent treat, with a smooth, velvety cheesecake filling that is elevated by the addition of dulce de leche, giving each bite a luscious, caramel flavor that’s simply irresistible. Sitting atop a buttery graham cracker crust, they’re the ultimate dessert for any occasion.

What I adore about these cheesecake bars is their perfect balance of flavors. The slight tanginess of the cheesecake pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the dulce de leche, while the crust adds a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy filling. I remember making them for the first time for a special gathering with friends, and they disappeared so quickly—I had to make another batch! These bars have since become one of my go-to recipes for celebrations or when I want to treat myself.

The best part is that they’re surprisingly easy to make. The components come together quickly, and the bars can be prepared in advance, making them a great dessert option for busy days or entertaining. Whether you serve them chilled or slightly warmed, they are always a crowd-pleaser. Trust me, once you try Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars, they’ll become a staple in your dessert lineup—every bite is a sweet, irresistible delight!

Perfect for:

  • Special occasions like birthdays or holidays
  • Dessert trays and buffets
  • Impressing guests with an elegant treat
  • Satisfying sweet cravings with a rich dessert

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Rich and Creamy: The cheesecake filling is smooth, velvety, and perfectly balanced by the dulce de leche.
  • Caramelized Flavor: The dulce de leche adds a deep, sweet caramel flavor that complements the tangy cream cheese.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare them the day before your event for easy, stress-free entertaining.
  • Simple to Serve: Cut into bars for easy individual portions without the need for messy slicing.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes (includes chilling time)
  • Preparation Time: 20 minutes
  • Baking Time: 25 minutes
  • Chilling Time: 3 hours
  • Servings: 12–16 bars
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 300–350 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 6g, Calcium: 10% DV, Iron: 4% DV

Ingredients

For the Crust:

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream

For the Dulce de Leche Swirl:

  • 1/2 cup dulce de leche (store-bought or homemade)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Cream Cheese: Provides the rich, creamy base for the cheesecake filling.
  • Dulce de Leche: A caramelized milk treat that swirls beautifully through the cheesecake for added sweetness.
  • Graham Cracker Crust: A buttery, crisp base that provides a contrast to the creamy filling.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Crust:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. Combine Crust Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, cinnamon (if using), and melted butter. Mix until everything is well combined and the crumbs are coated with butter.
  3. Press into the Pan: Press the graham cracker mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating an even layer. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the crust is set and lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool while you prepare the filling.

Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:

  1. Beat Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and creamy.
  2. Add Sugar and Eggs: Gradually add sugar, beating until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing until smooth after each addition.
  3. Mix in Sour Cream and Heavy Cream: Add the sour cream, heavy cream, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated and smooth.
  4. Fill the Crust: Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust, spreading evenly.

Add the Dulce de Leche Swirl:

  1. Swirl the Dulce de Leche: Drop spoonfuls of dulce de leche on top of the cheesecake filling. Use a butter knife or skewer to gently swirl it into the cheesecake mixture, creating a marbled effect.
  2. Bake: Bake the cheesecake at 325°F (163°C) for 20–25 minutes or until the center is set but still slightly jiggles when the pan is gently shaken.
  3. Cool: Allow the bars to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes before transferring them to the fridge. Chill for at least 3 hours, or overnight if possible, to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up.

How to Serve

  • Individual Bars: Cut into squares for a perfect, portable dessert that’s easy to serve at parties or gatherings.
  • Topped with Extra Dulce de Leche: Drizzle extra dulce de leche on top for an extra touch of sweetness.
  • With Fresh Fruit: Serve with fresh berries, such as strawberries or raspberries, for a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy bars.

Additional Tips

  • Chill the Cheesecake: Be sure to chill the bars before serving to ensure they firm up properly for a clean slice.
  • Watch the Baking Time: Be cautious not to over-bake the cheesecake, as it can lead to a dry texture. Aim for a slightly jiggly center.
  • Homemade Dulce de Leche: If you’re making your own dulce de leche, let it cool to room temperature before swirling it into the cheesecake filling.
  • Pan Size: You can use a smaller pan if you prefer thicker bars or a larger pan if you want thinner slices. Adjust the baking time as needed.

Recipe Variations

  1. Add Chocolate
    For a deeply indulgent, chocolatey version of these bars, swirl in melted chocolate into the filling. The rich, smooth chocolate will melt seamlessly with the creamy filling, creating decadent pockets of melted chocolate that enhance the overall flavor. You can use dark, milk, or white chocolate depending on your preference for sweetness and richness. This variation is perfect for those who want an extra layer of chocolate in every bite.
  2. Gluten-Free
    To make these bars gluten-free, swap traditional graham cracker crumbs for a gluten-free alternative. Look for gluten-free graham cracker crumbs in stores, or make your own by blending gluten-free cookies like gluten-free digestives or even gluten-free crackers. This ensures the dessert is suitable for those following a gluten-free diet, while still maintaining the signature crisp texture of the graham cracker crust. It’s a small tweak with a big impact for inclusivity and flavor.
  3. Nuts on Top
    Garnishing with chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, adds a delightful crunch and extra texture to these creamy bars. The nuts bring a toasty, slightly sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the richness of the cheesecake filling. You can toast the nuts lightly for an added depth of flavor or leave them raw for a fresher, softer crunch. This variation is a great way to elevate the dessert both visually and in terms of texture.
  4. Fruit Flavor
    For a refreshing twist, add a few tablespoons of fruit preserves, such as raspberry or strawberry, on top of the bars after they’ve set. The fruity preserves add a burst of color and a sweet-tart contrast to the creamy, rich cheesecake filling. The bright flavors of the fruit beautifully complement the dessert’s creamy richness, providing a pleasant balance between sweetness and acidity. You can also layer some fresh fruit, like berries, on top to intensify the fruity theme.
  5. Tropical Touch
    Bring a taste of the tropics into your cheesecake bars by incorporating shredded coconut into the filling. The coconut adds a chewy texture and a slightly sweet flavor that enhances the creamy richness. It pairs wonderfully with a subtle hint of vanilla or citrus zest for added brightness. For even more tropical flair, you can garnish the bars with extra shredded coconut or pair them with tropical fruits like pineapple or mango for a sunny finish.

Freezing and Storage

  • Storage: Store any leftover cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Freezing: Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Special Equipment

  • 9×13-inch Baking Dish: A standard 9×13-inch pan is perfect for making these cheesecake bars.
  • Electric Mixer: A hand mixer or stand mixer is essential for ensuring a smooth and creamy filling.
  • Parchment Paper: Lining the baking pan with parchment paper helps remove the bars easily once cooled.
  • Butter Knife or Skewer: These tools help create the swirl pattern with the dulce de leche.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use store-bought dulce de leche?
    Yes, using store-bought dulce de leche is a great time-saver for this recipe.
  2. Can I make this in advance?
    Yes, these bars can be made up to 2 days in advance. Just store them in the fridge.
  3. How do I know when the cheesecake is done?
    The center should be set but slightly jiggly when shaken. Avoid overbaking.
  4. Can I make a larger batch?
    Yes, you can double the recipe and use a larger baking pan. Be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.

Conclusion

Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars are a rich, decadent dessert that offers a perfect combination of creamy cheesecake and sweet caramelized flavor. The smooth, velvety texture of the cheesecake, paired with the deep, caramelized notes of dulce de leche, creates a mouthwatering treat that will impress anyone lucky enough to try it.

These bars are easy to prepare and provide a convenient way to enjoy a luxurious dessert without the hassle of a traditional cheesecake. Whether served at a gathering or as a special treat for yourself, they offer a heavenly experience in every bite.

Bake a batch today and enjoy the delightful richness of dulce de leche! Don’t forget to snap a photo of your delicious creation. tag me so I can celebrate your baking success. Happy baking!

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