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Every great recipe begins with an understanding of its ingredients, and dulce de leche cheesecake bars are no exception. The combination of textures and flavors in this dessert relies on a few key components that work together harmoniously to create a memorable experience. Let's delve into the essential ingredients that will bring this dessert to life.

Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars

Discover the irresistible charm of Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars, where creamy cheesecake meets the sweet, caramel-like goodness of dulce de leche. These bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust and a velvety filling that melts in your mouth, making them the perfect treat for any occasion. This article provides a step-by-step guide to creating this decadent dessert, highlighting essential ingredients and tips to impress your friends and family with this delightful culinary creation. Enjoy the art of baking and savor every delicious bite!

Ingredients
  

For the Crust:

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

½ cup unsalted butter, melted

¼ cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cheesecake Filling:

16 oz cream cheese, softened

1 cup dulce de leche (homemade or store-bought)

½ cup granulated sugar

3 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional, for extra structure)

For the Topping:

½ cup dulce de leche, for drizzling

Whipped cream (optional)

Chocolate shavings or caramel drizzle (optional for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Lightly grease an 8x8 inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.

    Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form an even layer.

      Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, until it is set and lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly while preparing the filling.

        Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add in the dulce de leche and granulated sugar, mixing until well combined.

          Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Finally, mix in the vanilla extract and flour (if using), scraping down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well incorporated.

            Pour Filling Over Crust: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.

              Bake the Cheesecake Bars: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, until the center is set and slightly jiggles when shaken. The edges should be a light golden color.

                Cool and Chill: Allow the cheesecake bars to cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set fully.

                  Cut and Serve: Using the overhang from the parchment paper, lift the cheesecake out of the pan. Cut into squares. Drizzle with the remaining dulce de leche and top with whipped cream or chocolate shavings if desired.

                    Enjoy! Serve chilled and enjoy the sweet, creamy delight of these Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars!

                      Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 5 hours | Servings: 16 bars