Creamy, Caramelized Perfection with a Buttery Graham Cracker Crust
🍯 Introduction
These Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate indulgence—silky-smooth cheesecake swirled with rich dulce de leche, all nestled in a cinnamon-spiced graham cracker crust and finished with a drippy caramel topping. Easier than a traditional cheesecake but just as decadent, these bars are perfect for parties, potlucks, or when you need an impressive dessert without the fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ No water bath needed – Simpler than classic cheesecake!
✅ Sweet-salty balance – Fleur de sel enhances the caramel.
✅ Make-ahead friendly – Tastes even better chilled overnight.
✅ Irresistible texture – Creamy filling + crunchy crust.
📝 Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2¼ cups graham cracker crumbs (~17 crackers)
- 2 tbsp sugar
- ¼–½ tsp cinnamon
- 10 tbsp melted butter
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- ½ cup dulce de leche
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- ⅔ cup dulce de leche
- 3–5 tbsp heavy cream (to thin)
- Fleur de sel or flaky sea salt
Equipment:
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper (for easy removal)
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Make the Crust
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment, leaving overhang.
- Mix graham crumbs, sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Press firmly into the pan.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then cool slightly.
2️⃣ Prepare the Filling
- Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth (~3 mins).
- Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla.
- Pour ½ cup dulce de leche over batter; gently swirl with a knife.
3️⃣ Bake & Chill
- Pour filling over crust. Bake 35–40 mins until edges are set but center jiggles slightly.
- Cool 1 hour at room temp, then refrigerate 4+ hours (overnight best).
4️⃣ Add the Topping
- Warm ⅔ cup dulce de leche with heavy cream until drizzle-able.
- Spread over chilled cheesecake, then sprinkle with sea salt.
- Lift bars from pan using parchment, slice, and serve!
❓ FAQs
Can I use store-bought dulce de leche?
✅ Yes! Look for canned Nestlé La Lechera or cajeta.
How do I prevent cracks?
- Don’t overmix after adding eggs.
- Cool gradually (oven off, door cracked for 1 hour).
Can I freeze these?
✅ Yes! Freeze un-topped for 1 month. Thaw in fridge, then add dulce de leche.
What if I don’t have graham crackers?
- Use digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers.
💡 Pro Tips
🔸 Room-temperature ingredients prevent lumps.
🔸 Swirl gently for marbled effect (don’t overmix).
🔸 Chill thoroughly for clean slices—dip knife in hot water between cuts.
🍽️ Serving Ideas
- With coffee – The salt enhances the sweetness.
- Drizzled with chocolate – For a tres leches twist.
- Topped with whipped cream – Extra indulgence!
🌟 Final Thoughts
These bars are caramel heaven—creamy, rich, and impossible to resist. Perfect for holidays or anytime you crave something luxurious!
Try these variations:
- Chocolate-dulce: Add cocoa powder to the crust.
- Espresso swirl: Mix 1 tbsp instant coffee into half the batter.
Enjoy! 😍✨ Tag your creations #DulceCheesecakeBars and let us know your favorite topping!
“Life is short—eat the cheesecake.” 🍰💛
