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If you’re looking for a dessert that strikes the perfect balance between rich and creamy with a beloved caramel twist, this Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars Recipe is exactly what your kitchen needs. These bars are a heavenly treat boasting a buttery graham cracker crust, luscious cheesecake filling infused with silky dulce de leche, and finished with an irresistible drizzle that makes every bite feel like a little celebration. Whether you’re baking for a cozy night in or impressing friends at a gathering, these bars bring warmth and indulgence with every forkful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars Recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from providing the crumbly base to creating a luxuriously smooth cheesecake that melts in your mouth. Let’s dive into the essentials that come together effortlessly to form this classic favorite.
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs: The foundation for a crunchy and buttery crust that holds the bars together perfectly.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and binds the crumbs for that perfect texture.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (crust): Enhances the sweetness balance in the crust without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (crust): Introduces subtle warmth and aromatic depth.
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened: The star of the filling, creating a smooth, creamy base with a slight tang.
- 1 cup dulce de leche: Infuses the cheesecake with its signature caramel flavor and indulgent texture.
- ½ cup granulated sugar (filling): Sweetens the filling, helping to harmonize flavors perfectly.
- 2 large eggs: Provide structure and richness without weighing down the bars.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (filling): Boosts the flavor profile, complementing both cream cheese and dulce de leche.
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: Gives just the right amount of stability to the cheesecake layers.
- ½ cup dulce de leche (for drizzling): The pièce de résistance — a luscious drizzle that adds a final burst of caramel goodness.
- Whipped cream (optional): A light, airy topping that pairs beautifully with these dense bars.
- Chocolate shavings or crushed nuts (optional): Add texture and a little extra flair to your presentation.
How to Make Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and vanilla until it looks like wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to form your crust. Bake it for about 10 minutes until it’s lightly golden and fragrant. This crisp base sets the stage for the luscious cheesecake filling.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
While the crust cools, grab a large mixing bowl and beat the cream cheese on medium speed until silky and smooth, about 2 to 3 minutes. Then, lovingly fold in the dulce de leche and sugar until everything blends into a decadent creamy mixture. One by one, add eggs mixing well after each, and stir in vanilla and flour until just combined. This filling is where that beautiful balance of tangy and sweet comes alive.
Step 3: Bake and Cool the Bars
Pour the filling gently over your cooled crust and smooth it out evenly with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, judging doneness by the edges being set while the center retains a slight jiggle. After baking, turn off the oven and leave the bars inside with the door cracked open for an hour — this gradual cooling prevents cracks and gives a tender texture.
Step 4: Chill and Finish
Once cooled in the oven, bring the bars out to reach room temperature, then cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This chilling step transforms the bars into a firm yet creamy dessert you can slice cleanly. Before serving, drizzle the remaining dulce de leche over the top for that iconic caramel touch and add whipped cream or chocolate shavings if you wish.
How to Serve Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
The finishing touches make these bars truly shine. A simple dollop of whipped cream adds lightness, while chocolate shavings or crushed nuts provide a delightful texture contrast and visual appeal. These garnishes complement the rich, velvety cheesecake perfectly without stealing the spotlight.
Side Dishes
Pair your Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars Recipe with fresh berries or a drizzle of raspberry sauce to cut through the richness and provide a bright, fruity counterbalance. A hot cup of espresso or a glass of dessert wine also makes an elegant companion to elevate dessert time.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving these bars on colorful plates sprinkled with edible flowers or crushed pistachios. You could also create a layered dessert by crumbling the bars into parfait glasses, alternating with whipped cream and fresh fruit. It’s a playful way to showcase this classic recipe and impress guests at any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars Recipe, any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep beautifully for up to 4 days, maintaining their creamy texture and caramel flavor.
Freezing
If you want to prepare ahead or save some for later, these cheesecake bars freeze wonderfully. Wrap each bar tightly with plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing taste or texture.
Reheating
When you’re ready to indulge again, let frozen bars thaw overnight in the fridge. Avoid microwaving to preserve their texture; instead, enjoy them chilled or bring to room temperature before serving to experience the dessert’s full flavor.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought dulce de leche for this recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought dulce de leche works perfectly and saves time while delivering that rich, caramel flavor essential to this cheesecake bars recipe.
What can I substitute if I don’t have graham crackers?
You can use digestive biscuits or even crushed vanilla wafers as an alternative to graham crackers. Just make sure to toast the crumbs for added flavor before making the crust.
Is it necessary to chill the cheesecake bars overnight?
Chilling helps the bars set firmly, which makes slicing cleaner and enhances flavors. While a minimum of 4 hours works, overnight refrigeration yields the best texture and taste.
Can these bars be made gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the graham cracker crumbs for a gluten-free variety, and make sure any added toppings are gluten-free as well, and you’re good to go.
How do I prevent cracks in the cheesecake bars?
Cooling the bars gradually in the oven with the door cracked for an hour helps prevent cracking. Also, avoid overmixing the batter and do not overbake—the center should still jiggle slightly when done.
Final Thoughts
These Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars Recipe is bound to become a treasured staple in your dessert repertoire. With its luscious caramel infusion, smooth texture, and buttery crust, it’s the type of dessert that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. Don’t hesitate to dive in and share this delightful treat with friends and family—you’ll be creating sweet memories with every bite!
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Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours (including chilling time)
- Yield: 16 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars are a luscious and decadent dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a creamy cheesecake filling infused with rich dulce de leche. Finished with a drizzle of dulce de leche and optional whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or crushed nuts, these bars are perfect for any special occasion or indulgent treat.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup dulce de leche
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
Topping
- 1/2 cup dulce de leche, for drizzling
- Whipped cream, for serving (optional)
- Chocolate shavings or crushed nuts, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the crust and cheesecake.
- Prepare the Crust: In a medium mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until the crumbs are well coated and the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Form the Crust: Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to create a solid base.
- Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until it becomes lightly golden. Then remove and let it cool while preparing the filling.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Sweeteners: Beat in the dulce de leche and granulated sugar until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
- Incorporate Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure even distribution.
- Add Flavors and Flour: Stir in vanilla extract and all-purpose flour just until combined to maintain a smooth texture.
- Assemble the Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading evenly with a spatula.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the edges are set but the center still slightly jiggles.
- Cool Slowly: Turn off the oven and crack the door open. Let the cheesecake bars cool inside the oven for about 1 hour to prevent cracking.
- Chill the Bars: Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature, then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set fully.
- Cut and Serve: Once chilled, cut the cheesecake into bars with a sharp knife.
- Add Final Touches: Drizzle the top of each bar with remaining dulce de leche. Optionally, add a dollop of whipped cream and sprinkle with chocolate shavings or crushed nuts for garnish.
- Enjoy: Serve the cheesecake bars chilled and savor their rich, creamy flavor.
Notes
- For best results, ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps.
- You can substitute the graham cracker crust with digestive biscuits or similar cookies if preferred.
- Cool the crust completely before adding the filling to prevent it from becoming soggy.
- To make cleaner slices, warm the knife blade slightly before cutting the bars.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Allow the cheesecake bars to sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving for optimal texture and flavor.
