Ah, dulce de leche cheesecake bars—just saying the name makes my sweet tooth tingle! If you’re anything like me, you know there’s something magical about the combination of creamy cheesecake and that heavenly caramel-like flavor of dulce de leche. I often think back to summer barbecues at Grandma’s house when she would whip up something sweet and decadent after a long day of grilling and games. These bars were always a hit, and they certainly made a memory!
These dulce de leche cheesecake bars are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a visual delight. You see that luscious drizzle of dulce de leche over the top? It’s just begging to be devoured! Trust me; once you take a bite, you’ll be transported straight to dessert heaven. Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of what makes this treat so special!
What’s in Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars?
Graham Cracker Crumbs: This serves as a crunchy and slightly sweet base for your cheesecake bars. I like to use Honey Maid for that extra hint of sweetness.
Unsalted Butter: Adding melted butter to the graham cracker mixture helps bind it all together, making for a buttery, rich crust.
Granulated Sugar: Just a touch of sweetness for both the crust and the filling to enhance the flavors.
Cream Cheese: The star of the cheesecake filling! Softened cream cheese gives the bars their rich and creamy texture. Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing!
Dulce de Leche: This is where the magic happens. Sweet, caramel-like goodness that adds a luscious flavor to your filling. You’ll want to have extra on hand for drizzling later!
Eggs: These help set the filling as it bakes, giving it that smooth and creamy structure we all love.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla brings everything together and elevates the overall flavor, because who doesn’t love that warm vanilla aroma?
Is Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars Good for You?
Okay, let’s be real: while these bars are an absolute treat, they are indeed a dessert, which means moderation is key. However, they do have some redeeming qualities!
Cream Cheese and dulce de leche provide calcium and can satisfy your sweet cravings more effectively than some store-bought snacks. Just keep an eye on those sugar levels, too much of a good thing can leave you feeling, well, a little too sweet.
These bars can also be a fun indulgence for special occasions. A dessert that impresses is always a win in my book, especially if it leads to smiles and happy bellies!
Ingredients List
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup dulce de leche (plus more for drizzling)
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– **Servings**: Approximately 12 bars
How to Make Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars?
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until well combined and the mixture resembles wet sand.
3. Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool while preparing the filling.
4. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the dulce de leche and granulated sugar, and beat until well combined.
5. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing just until blended after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
6. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust and spread evenly. Bake the cheesecake bars for about 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to firm up.
8. Once chilled, spread the 1 cup of dulce de leche over the top of the cheesecake layer. Cut into bars and drizzle additional dulce de leche on top for garnish if desired.
9. Serve chilled and enjoy your delicious dulce de leche cheesecake bars!
Sweet Tips & Variations for Dulce de Leche Delights!
– If you’re feeling adventurous, why not sprinkle some chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, on top of the dulce de leche for added texture?
– A dash of sea salt can take these bars over the edge with a heavenly sweet and salty flavor profile.
– Try using a flavored extract, like almond or hazelnut, for a fun twist.
I really hope you give these dulce de leche cheesecake bars a try. They’re perfect for sharing with friends at a get-together or simply treating yourself on a cozy night in! Feel free to let me know how they turn out, or share your variations! Happy baking!
