Name: Irresistible Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs: These provide the foundation and crunch for the crust. Using freshly crushed graham crackers gives you the best flavor.; 5 tablespoons melted unsalted butter: This acts as the binding agent for the crust, adding richness and flavor.; 2 tablespoons sugar: A touch of sweetness in the crust balances the flavors.; 16 oz softened cream cheese: The star of the cheesecake layer, it provides the creamy texture. Ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.; ½ cup sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake layer perfectly.; 2 large eggs: Adds structure and richness to the cheesecake.; 1 teaspoon vanilla: Enhances the overall flavor profile.; ½ cup dulce de leche: Incorporated into the cheesecake layer for that luscious caramel flavor.; ½ cup dulce de leche (for topping, warmed for spreading): Provides a delightful finishing touch to the bars.; 1 tablespoon heavy cream (optional): This can be added to the topping for a creamier finish.; Optional garnishes: Whipped cream, chocolate shavings, sea salt flakes, and crushed nuts add a personal touch and visual appeal.

Description

Treat yourself to rich dulce de leche cheesecake bars—creamy, sweet, and absolutely irresistible for any dessert craving.

Ingredients

Scale

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs: These provide the foundation and crunch for the crust. Using freshly crushed graham crackers gives you the best flavor.
5 tablespoons melted unsalted butter: This acts as the binding agent for the crust, adding richness and flavor.
2 tablespoons sugar: A touch of sweetness in the crust balances the flavors.
16 oz softened cream cheese: The star of the cheesecake layer, it provides the creamy texture. Ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
½ cup sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake layer perfectly.
2 large eggs: Adds structure and richness to the cheesecake.
1 teaspoon vanilla: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
½ cup dulce de leche: Incorporated into the cheesecake layer for that luscious caramel flavor.
½ cup dulce de leche (for topping, warmed for spreading): Provides a delightful finishing touch to the bars.
1 tablespoon heavy cream (optional): This can be added to the topping for a creamier finish.
Optional garnishes: Whipped cream, chocolate shavings, sea salt flakes, and crushed nuts add a personal touch and visual appeal.

Instructions

Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, letting it hang over the edges for easy removal later. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs with 5 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Mix until well combined. Press this mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Allow it to cool completely before adding the cheesecake layer.
Make the Cheesecake Layer: In a large mixing bowl, beat 16 oz softened cream cheese and ½ cup sugar together until the mixture is creamy and smooth. Gradually add in 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Next, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla and ½ cup dulce de leche, blending until fully incorporated and smooth.
Assemble and Bake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust. Use a spatula to smooth it out evenly, and gently tap the pan on the counter to release any air bubbles trapped in the filling. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges of the cheesecake are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Remove from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for about an hour.
Add Topping: Once the cheesecake has cooled, spread ½ cup of warmed dulce de leche evenly over the top, allowing it to seep slightly into the cheesecake.
Chill and Slice: Refrigerate the cheesecake bars for at least 3 hours, or overnight to set completely. Once chilled, lift the cheesecake out of the pan using the parchment. Slice into bars using a sharp knife, cleaning the blade after each cut for clean edges.
Garnish and Serve: Top each bar with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, a sprinkle of sea salt, or crushed nuts as desired. Serve chilled and enjoy these rich caramel treats!