Name: Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars – A Dreamy Caramel Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 4 h 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the Crust:; 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs; 6 tbsp butter, melted; For the Cheesecake Filling:; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; ½ cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; For the Topping:; ¾ cup dulce de leche (plus more for drizzling, if desired)

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If you love rich, creamy cheesecake and gooey dulce de leche, these dulce de leche cheesecake bars are going to be your new favorite dessert! They have a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth and luscious cheesecake filling, and a generous swirl of caramelized dulce de leche on top. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or just a sweet treat for yourself!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy, rich, and indulgent – The perfect balance of tangy cheesecake and sweet caramel.
Easy to make – No need for a water bath like a traditional cheesecake!
Make-ahead friendly – Tastes even better after chilling overnight.
Perfect for sharing – Bars are easy to cut and serve at any gathering.

Ingredients

(Full list of ingredients below!)

Graham crackers
Butter
Cream cheese
Sugar
Eggs
Vanilla extract
Dulce de leche

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs and mix with melted butter. Press into a lined baking pan and bake at 325°F (163°C) for 10 minutes until set.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

Beat softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined. Stir in vanilla extract and pour over the baked crust.

Step 3: Swirl in Dulce de Leche

Warm the dulce de leche slightly so it’s easier to spread. Dollop spoonfuls over the cheesecake layer, then use a knife to swirl it in.

Step 4: Bake Until Set

Bake for 35-40 minutes, until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly. Let cool completely, then chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours (or overnight) before slicing.

Expert Tips and Tricks

Use room temperature ingredients – This ensures a smooth cheesecake filling.
Don’t overmix the batter – Overbeating can create air bubbles and cracks.
Chill before slicing – The bars hold their shape better when fully chilled.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

Chocolate crust – Swap graham crackers for crushed chocolate cookies.
Extra caramel drizzle – Add warm dulce de leche on top before serving.
Nutty crunch – Sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds over the crust.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Coffee or espresso – The bitterness of coffee balances the sweetness.
Fresh berries – A handful of raspberries or strawberries adds freshness.
Whipped cream – A light, airy topping makes these bars even more indulgent.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store in the fridge – Keep in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezing option – Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a bag. Thaw in the fridge overnight.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought dulce de leche?
Yes! Or make your own by simmering a can of sweetened condensed milk.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, just use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
Why did my cheesecake crack?
Overbaking or overmixing can cause cracks. Let it cool slowly to prevent this.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just use a larger baking dish and adjust baking time.

Conclusion

These dulce de leche cheesecake bars are a caramel lover’s dream! They’re creamy, decadent, and packed with rich flavor in every bite. Whether you’re making them for a party or just because, they’re guaranteed to be a hit!

Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars – A Dreamy Caramel Delight

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These dulce de leche cheesecake bars are a dreamy combination of creamy cheesecake, buttery graham cracker crust, and luscious swirls of caramelized dulce de leche. They’re easy to make, rich, and utterly indulgent—perfect for holidays, potlucks, or a simple treat at home.

Author: Touria Elkoudssi
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 55 minutes (includes chilling time)
Yield: 12–16 bars 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Preheat & Prepare Crust
Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter, then press into the pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool slightly.
Make Cheesecake Filling
Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed just until combined. Stir in vanilla extract.
Swirl in Dulce de Leche
Pour cheesecake mixture over the crust. Warm dulce de leche slightly, then drop spoonfuls onto the batter. Use a knife to swirl it in gently.
Bake & Cool
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Let cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight).
Slice & Serve
Cut into bars and drizzle with extra dulce de leche if desired. Serve chilled.

Notes

For a firmer crust, press it firmly into the pan using the bottom of a glass.
Avoid overmixing the batter to prevent excess air bubbles and cracks.
For cleaner slices, wipe your knife with a damp cloth between cuts.