Dulce de leche cheesecake bars are a delightful and indulgent dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet caramel flavor of dulce de leche. Here’s a basic recipe for you to try:
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 ounces (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup dulce de leche
For Topping:
- Additional dulce de leche for drizzling (optional)
- Chopped nuts or shredded coconut for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- Make the Crust: In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to create an even crust. Bake for about 10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow it to cool while you prepare the filling.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add the sugar and continue to beat until well combined.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Gently fold in the dulce de leche until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the edges are set, and the center is slightly jiggly. The center will firm up as it cools.
- Cool and Chill:
- Allow the cheesecake bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to let the flavors meld and the cheesecake set.
- Serve:
- Once chilled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the cheesecake out of the pan.
- Cut into bars of your desired size.
- Optionally, drizzle additional dulce de leche over the top and sprinkle with chopped nuts or shredded coconut before serving.
Enjoy these decadent dulce de leche cheesecake bars as a delightful treat for any occasion!
