Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.1 from 54 reviews
  • Author: admin
  • 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

Scale

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

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the crust and cheesecake.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. Add Sweeteners: Beat in the dulce de leche and granulated sugar until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
  7. Incorporate Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure even distribution.
  8. Add Flavors and Flour: Stir in vanilla extract and all-purpose flour just until combined to maintain a smooth texture.
  9. Assemble the Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading evenly with a spatula.
  10. 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.
  11. 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.
  12. 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.
  13. Cut and Serve: Once chilled, cut the cheesecake into bars with a sharp knife.
  14. 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.
  15. 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.