Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars: A Sweet Indulgence You’ll Adore

Few desserts can match the rich, creamy decadence of Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars. Imagine a buttery graham cracker crust, velvety cheesecake filling swirled with dulce de leche, and a drizzle of caramel-like topping, all finished with a touch of fleur de sel. Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself to something extraordinary, this dessert delivers a perfect blend of textures and flavors that’s impossible to resist.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars

These cheesecake bars combine the comforting sweetness of dulce de leche with the tanginess of cream cheese. They’re easy to serve, visually stunning, and bursting with flavor in every bite. Plus, their make-ahead nature makes them perfect for parties, holidays, or anytime you want to impress without stress.

Ingredients for Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars

Before diving into the recipe, gather your ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the layers of flavor and texture.

For the Crust

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose
Graham cracker crumbs	2 1/4 cups (about 17 crackers)	Provides the buttery base
Granulated sugar	2 tbsp	Adds sweetness
Ground cinnamon	1/4 to 1/2 tsp	Adds a warm spice note
Melted butter	10 tbsp (1 1/4 sticks)	Binds the crust

For the Cheesecake Filling

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose
Cream cheese	3 packages (8 oz each)	Creates the creamy filling
Granulated sugar	1 cup	Sweetens the cheesecake
Eggs	3 large (room temp)	Binds and adds structure
Dulce de leche	1/2 cup (room temp)	Adds caramel-like sweetness
Vanilla extract	2 tsp	Enhances the flavor

For the Topping

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose
Dulce de leche	About 2/3 cup	Creates a rich topping
Heavy cream	3+ tbsp	Adjusts the consistency of the topping
Fleur de sel	To taste	Balances the sweetness

Step-by-Step Recipe for Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars

1. Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 13x9x2-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. For easy removal, you can line the pan with aluminum foil and grease the foil as well.
2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and cinnamon. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
3. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
4. Bake for about 10 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden. Let it cool completely on a wire rack.

2. Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a stand mixer or food processor, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
2. Add the dulce de leche and mix until fully incorporated.
3. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing for 3–5 seconds after each addition.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract and mix for an additional 10 seconds.
5. Pour the cheesecake mixture evenly over the cooled crust.

3. Bake the Cheesecake

1. Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for approximately 38 minutes.
2. The center should be set, and the edges should look slightly puffed and cracked.
3. Remove the pan from the oven and allow the cheesecake to cool completely on a wire rack.

4. Prepare the Topping

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dulce de leche and 3 tbsp of heavy cream.
2. Heat in 10-second intervals, stirring gently after each interval, until the mixture is smooth and pourable.
3. Add more cream if needed to achieve a drizzling consistency.

5. Assemble and Chill

1. Pour the dulce de leche topping over the cooled cheesecake, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
2. Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 1 hour, or until completely chilled.

6. Slice and Serve

1. Carefully lift the cheesecake out of the pan using the foil lining (if used).
2. Slice into 24 bars by cutting into 4 rows lengthwise and 6 rows crosswise.
3. Sprinkle each bar with a pinch of fleur de sel before serving for a sophisticated finish.

Tips for Perfect Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars

Use Room-Temperature Ingredients

• Room-temperature cream cheese and eggs ensure a smooth, lump-free batter.

Don’t Overbake

• The cheesecake should have a slight jiggle in the center when done. Overbaking can lead to cracks.

Chill for Clean Slices

• Refrigerate the cheesecake for several hours before slicing to achieve neat, even bars.

Serving Suggestions

Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars are indulgent on their own, but you can elevate them further with:

• Whipped Cream: A dollop adds a light, airy contrast.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle toasted almonds or pecans for extra crunch.
• Seasonal Fruits: Fresh berries provide a burst of tartness.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate breakdown per bar (based on 24 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Bar
Calories	240
Protein	4g
Carbohydrates	22g
Fat	15g
Sugar	18g
Sodium	140mg

Common Variations

1. Chocolate Twist

• Add a drizzle of melted chocolate to the topping for a richer flavor.

2. Nutty Crust

• Substitute part of the graham cracker crumbs with finely chopped nuts like pecans or almonds.

3. Salted Caramel Swap

• Use salted caramel instead of dulce de leche for a slightly different, yet equally indulgent taste.

FAQs About Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars

1. Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars taste even better the next day. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

2. Can I freeze the cheesecake bars?

Yes, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

3. Can I use homemade dulce de leche?

Definitely! Homemade dulce de leche works perfectly and adds a personal touch.

4. What’s the best way to cut clean bars?

Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between each cut for neat slices.

5. Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, substitute gluten-free graham crackers for a gluten-free version.

6. How do I prevent cracks in the cheesecake?

Avoid overmixing the batter, bake at the correct temperature, and cool the cheesecake gradually.

Conclusion: Elevate Your Dessert Game

Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars are the perfect blend of elegance and indulgence. With their creamy filling, buttery crust, and luscious topping, they’re a dessert worth savoring. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, this recipe is a guaranteed hit.

Print