Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars: A Rich and Creamy Dessert Delight

Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat that combines the creaminess of cheesecake with the rich flavor of caramel. I love how these simple dessert bars are not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying.

This dessert recipe features a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a velvety cheesecake filling and luscious swirls of dulce de leche, making it a perfect choice for any occasion.

The process is so easy, involving minimal ingredients and no baking.

The mixture of cream cheese, vanilla, and dulce de leche results in a smooth and delicious layer that pairs perfectly with the crispy crust. The final touch is a drizzle of extra dulce de leche, which adds even more flavor and a beautiful finish.

These bars serve well for gatherings or as a sweet treat at home. Each bite is a balance of sweet and creamy, making these dulce de leche cheesecake bars a must-try for dessert lovers everywhere.

For more great My Nourished Home desserts, check out: Oreo Cheesecake Bars, Cream Cheese Caramel Apple Dip, and Chai Tea Cookies.

Why You Will Love Dulce De Leche Cheesecake Bars

Dulce de leche cheesecake bars offer a delightful mix of flavors and textures.

Creamy and Rich
The center is a smooth, creamy cheesecake that melts in your mouth. The blend of cream cheese and vanilla creates a rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweet caramel.

Sweet and Salty Harmony
The crust provides a buttery, slightly salty contrast to the sweetness of the filling. This balance of flavors makes each bite satisfying and enjoyable.

Decadent Dulce de Leche
The dulce de leche adds a unique caramel flavor that stands out in this dessert. Its rich, velvety texture brings a special touch that transforms simple cheesecake bars into something extraordinary.

Easy to Make
This recipe is straightforward and beginner-friendly. I love that it requires no baking, making it perfect for quick treats or gatherings.

Perfect for Sharing
With nine servings, these bars are ideal for parties, family dinners, or just a cozy night at home. They’re sure to impress anyone who tries them.

How To Make Perfect Dulce De Leche Cheesecake Bars

To make delicious Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars, I start with the graham cracker crust.

I mix 2 cups of graham cracker crumbs, ½ cup melted butter, and 2 tablespoons granulated sugar in a bowl. Then, I press the mixture firmly into a lined 9×9-inch baking pan.

Next is the cheesecake filling.

I beat 16 oz of softened cream cheese with ½ cup of dulce de leche, ½ cup heavy cream, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth. Then, I pour this creamy mixture over the chilled crust.

For a lovely topping, I swirl in more dulce de leche.

If it’s too thick, I add a bit of whole milk to thin it out. Drizzling several drops of dulce de leche across the filling and swirling with a toothpick creates a beautiful design.

I refrigerate the bars for at least 4 to 6 hours, ideally overnight. This helps them set perfectly, making them easy to cut into squares.

Key Ingredients And Substitutions

When making Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars, I choose simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of each ingredient and possible substitutes.

Graham Cracker Crumbs

• Use: Forms the base for the bars.
• Substitutions: You can swap with Oreo crumbs or digestive biscuits for a different taste.

Butter

• Use: Binds the graham cracker crumbs together.
• Substitutions: Coconut oil or unsalted margarine works well.

Dulce de Leche

• Use: Adds richness to both the filling and topping.
• Substitutions: Caramel sauce can be used, but it will have a different texture. Store-bought dulce de leche is easily available.

Heavy Cream

• Use: Adds creaminess and helps whip the filling.
• Substitutions: Half-and-half or coconut cream can substitute if needed.

Sea Salt

• Use: Enhances the flavors.
• Substitutions: Fleur de sel or flaky sea salt can be used for a gourmet touch.

Whole Milk

• Use: Thins the dulce de leche for swirling.
• Substitutions: Almond milk or any other milk of choice can be used if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

I often receive questions about making dulce de leche cheesecake bars and various ingredients used in the recipe. Here are some answers to help clarify common concerns.

How do you make cheesecake bars with dulce de leche?

To make cheesecake bars with dulce de leche, start by preparing the crust with graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture into a square pan.

For the filling, beat softened cream cheese with heavy cream, vanilla extract, and dulce de leche. Pour it over the crust and refrigerate until set.

Can you use condensed milk to make creamy cheesecake bars?

Yes, you can use sweetened condensed milk to create creamy cheesecake bars. It will make the filling rich and smooth. When using it, you might reduce other sugars in the recipe because condensed milk is sweet.

What is the best method for creating a no-bake cheesecake base?

For a no-bake cheesecake base, mix crushed graham crackers with melted butter and sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of your pan to create an even layer. Refrigerate it for a while to help it firm up before adding the filling.

How does caramel differ from dulce de leche in cheesecake recipes?

Caramel is usually made from sugar that is heated until it melts, while dulce de leche is made by slow-cooking sweetened milk until it becomes thick and caramel-like.

In cheesecake recipes, dulce de leche adds a creamier texture and a richer flavor.

Does dulce de leche set firm enough for cheesecake bars after cooling?

Yes, dulce de leche sets well after the cheesecake bars have cooled. It will create a deliciously smooth filling that holds its shape once it chills in the refrigerator.

Is there a difference between butterscotch and dulce de leche in dessert recipes?

Yes, there is a difference. Butterscotch is made from brown sugar and butter, giving it a different flavor profile.

Dulce de leche has a richer, creamier taste since it is made from milk and sugar cooked together, which adds a unique depth to dessert recipes.