If you love rich, creamy desserts with a touch of indulgence, these Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars are about to become your new favorite treat. Combining a buttery graham cracker crust, silky cheesecake filling, and a luscious layer of golden caramel-like dulce de leche, these bars are pure dessert perfection.
Perfect for dinner parties, holidays, or anytime you want to impress, this recipe offers all the flavor of a classic cheesecake with the convenience of easy-to-serve bars.
Ingredients
Makes 12–16 bars
For the Crust
- 1 ½ cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Layer
- 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup (60ml) sour cream
For the Topping
- ½ cup (120g) dulce de leche (store-bought or homemade)
- Sea salt (optional, for garnish)
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Bake time: 40 minutes
- Cooling & chilling time: 2–3 hours
- Total time: About 3 hours
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until evenly mixed.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan to form a smooth crust.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
- Add sugar and mix until creamy.
- Beat in eggs, one at a time, followed by vanilla extract and sour cream.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
Step 3: Add the Dulce de Leche Swirl
- Warm the dulce de leche slightly to make it easier to drizzle.
- Drop spoonfuls of dulce de leche on top of the cheesecake layer and swirl gently with a knife for a marbled effect.
Step 4: Bake the Bars
- Bake for 30–35 minutes or until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.
- Remove from oven and cool completely at room temperature.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours (preferably overnight) for best texture.
- Slice into bars and, if desired, sprinkle lightly with sea salt before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Drizzle with extra warm dulce de leche or chocolate sauce before serving.
- Top with whipped cream or a sprinkle of crushed pecans for added texture.
- Serve chilled with a cup of espresso or black coffee to balance the sweetness.
- For a festive twist, add a hint of cinnamon to the crust mixture.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 bar) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 |
| Protein | 4 grams |
| Total Fat | 17 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 10 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 28 grams |
| Sugars | 21 grams |
| Fiber | 0.5 grams |
| Sodium | 180 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Cream cheese adds calcium and protein, creating a rich yet satisfying base.
- Dulce de leche provides natural caramel sweetness — a little goes a long way.
- Sour cream keeps the cheesecake layer creamy and balanced.
- Reduce sugar slightly or use low-fat cream cheese for a lighter version.
Tips for the Best Cheesecake Bars
- Make sure all dairy ingredients are room temperature to prevent lumps.
- Avoid overbaking — the center should still have a slight wobble when removed.
- For clean slices, use a sharp knife wiped with a warm, damp cloth between cuts.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Variations to Try
- Chocolate Dulce de Leche Bars: Add ¼ cup cocoa powder to the crust and swirl melted dark chocolate with the dulce de leche.
- Nutty Crunch Version: Sprinkle chopped toasted almonds or pecans over the top before baking.
- Spiced Caramel Cheesecake Bars: Add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg for cozy fall flavors.
- Mini Versions: Bake in a muffin tin for individual cheesecake bites.
These Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars deliver all the creamy indulgence of a classic cheesecake with a buttery crust and caramel-like swirl that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, baking for the holidays, or simply treating yourself, this dessert offers elegance, simplicity, and irresistible flavor in every bite.
Smooth, sweet, and perfectly balanced — these bars are sure to impress anyone lucky enough to try them.