If you love indulgent desserts with a balance of creamy texture and sweet caramel flavor, these Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars are about to become your new go-to. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a silky smooth cheesecake filling, and rich swirls of dulce de leche, this easy layered dessert is perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or anytime you want to impress
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Rich and creamy cheesecake with caramel-like dulce de leche swirls
Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients
Freezer-friendly and great for make-ahead dessert planning
Perfect for parties, holidays, or as a luxurious everyday treat
Ingredients Breakdown:
For the Crust:
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
¼ cup granulated sugar
For the Cheesecake Layer:
16 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
For the Dulce de Leche Swirl:
1 cup dulce de leche (store-bought or homemade)
Tips and Tricks:
Use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture
Let all ingredients come to room temperature before mixing
For cleaner swirls, warm the dulce de leche slightly before spooning it in
Line the baking pan with parchment for easy removal and slicing
Freeze extra bars individually wrapped for a quick treat
Variations and Customizations:
Salted Caramel: Replace dulce de leche with salted caramel sauce
Chocolate Crust: Use chocolate graham crackers or crushed Oreos for a richer base
Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the crust for extra crunch
Mini Cheesecake Bites: Use a muffin tin for single-serve portions
Pairing Suggestions:
Drinks: Pair with espresso, cappuccino, or a glass of dessert wine
Other Desserts: Serve with vanilla bean ice cream or fresh berries on the side
Occasions: Great for birthdays, Easter, Mother’s Day, or a holiday dessert table
Storage Instructions:
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days
Freezer: Wrap bars individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make these cheesecake bars ahead of time?
Yes! These bars are perfect for making a day in advance, and the flavor improves after chilling.
Can I use homemade dulce de leche?
Absolutely. Homemade dulce de leche adds a rich, deep flavor. Just make sure it’s thick but spreadable.
What if I don’t have graham crackers?
You can substitute digestive biscuits, crushed vanilla wafers, or even shortbread cookies.
