Dulce de Leche Cheesecake
Dulce de Leche Cheesecake is a luscious, creamy dessert blending the smooth texture of classic cheesecake with the rich, caramel flavors of dulce de leche. This easy-to-make treat offers velvety indulgence with a buttery graham cracker crust and can be customized for various dietary preferences.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (adjust crust as needed)
Cheesecake Filling
- 24 oz (680g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup (280g) dulce de leche
- 1/2 cup (120ml) sour cream or heavy cream (optional)
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs
- 5 tablespoons (70g) unsalted butter, melted
- Prepare the Crust: Start by crushing graham crackers into fine crumbs and mixing them with melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to create an even, compact base that complements the creamy filling.
- Beat the Cream Cheese: Using a mixer, beat softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy. This step is crucial to avoid lumps and ensure the cheesecake has a signature creamy texture.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined after each addition to maintain a light batter. Stir in vanilla extract to enhance the flavor with a subtle aroma.
- Fold in Dulce de Leche: Gently fold in the dulce de leche, blending it evenly through the batter. This infuses the cheesecake with its beautiful caramel tone and heavenly taste.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the batter over the crust and bake at 325°F (163°C) until the edges are set but the center slightly jiggles, approximately 50-60 minutes. This prevents overbaking and keeps the cheesecake moist.
- Cool and Chill: Let the cheesecake cool gradually at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. Proper chilling sets the texture perfectly and intensifies the flavors.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients to ensure smooth mixing without lumps or curdling.
- Prevent cracks by baking in a water bath or placing a pan of water in the oven to maintain moisture.
- Do not overmix the batter; mix just until smooth to keep a dense texture.
- Chill the cheesecake properly overnight for the best texture and flavor development.
- For a final sweet touch, add a dollop of dulce de leche on top before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cheesecake)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 30 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 29 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
Keywords: dulce de leche cheesecake, caramel cheesecake, creamy dessert, no bake cheesecake, gluten free dessert option