Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars
Rich and creamy Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust layered with a smooth cheesecake filling infused with luscious caramel sweetness. Perfectly portioned for easy serving, this dessert combines indulgent flavors with simple ingredients, making it effortless to prepare for any occasion.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 55 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (with gluten-free crackers)
For the Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 sheets)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup sour cream
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup dulce de leche
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9 inch baking pan. Crush the graham crackers into fine crumbs, then mix them with melted butter until the texture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan to create an even crust layer. Bake for 8-10 minutes until golden and set, then let it cool slightly.
- Make the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar together until completely smooth and fluffy. Add the sour cream, vanilla extract, and eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to maintain a creamy consistency. Finally, fold in the dulce de leche until fully blended.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the cheesecake mixture evenly over the cooled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula and gently tap the pan to release any air bubbles. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center slightly jiggles, ensuring a soft, creamy texture.
- Cool and chill: Let the bars cool to room temperature, then transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the filling to firm up, making slicing easier.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs for the smoothest filling.
- Mix just until combined to avoid cracks caused by excess air.
- If using a water bath, wrap the pan tightly in foil to prevent leaks.
- Chill bars thoroughly before slicing to achieve clean cuts.
- Store leftovers covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 28 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
Keywords: Dulce de Leche, Cheesecake Bars, Caramel Dessert, Easy Cheesecake, No Crack Cheesecake, Cream Cheese Bars