Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars
Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars combine a buttery graham cracker crust with a creamy, smooth cheesecake layer infused with luscious dulce de leche. This dessert offers a perfect balance of rich caramel flavor and silky texture, ideal for special occasions or simple treats. Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients and versatile for customization, these bars are a delightful caramel twist on a classic cheesecake.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours (including chilling time)
- Yield: 16 bars (cut into 2-inch squares) 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (if gluten-free crust option chosen)
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Cheesecake Filling
- 24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup dulce de leche
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl. Press mixture firmly into the bottom of a lined 9×9 inch baking pan to create an even, compact base.
- Whip the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, sour cream, and vanilla extract and blend until fully combined. Beat in eggs one at a time until the mixture is silky and lump-free.
- Incorporate Dulce de Leche: Gently fold dulce de leche into the cheesecake batter, either swirling it for a marbled effect or mixing evenly for a consistent caramel flavor.
- Bake the Bars: Pour the cheesecake mixture over the prepared crust and smooth the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for about 40-45 minutes until edges are set but center slightly jiggles.
- Chill and Serve: Allow bars to cool to room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight to set completely before cutting and serving.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs for a smooth batter.
- Do not overmix to avoid cracks and air bubbles.
- Choose a premium, creamy dulce de leche for best flavor.
- Line the baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Refrigerate overnight for optimal flavor and texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (approx. 2-inch square)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: dulce de leche, cheesecake bars, caramel dessert, creamy cheesecake, caramel bars, easy cheesecake
Find it online: https://juliaglam.com/dulce-de-leche-cheesecake-bars/
