If you’re a fan of rich, creamy cheesecake with an extra layer of indulgence, these Dulce de Leche Chocolate Cheesecake Bars are bound to win your heart. This dessert perfectly balances the smoothness of cream cheese, the sweetness of dulce de leche, and the depth of semisweet chocolate. Each bar feels like a tiny piece of heaven, with layers that delight the senses in every bite. Made with a crust of crushed Oreos and topped with a luscious chocolate ganache, this recipe is an absolute must-try for special occasions or any time you’re craving a memorable treat.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, instructions, and tips for making these decadent cheesecake bars, along with helpful storage tips and nutritional information. Let’s dive in!
Why We Love This Recipe
There are many reasons to love these Dulce de Leche Chocolate Cheesecake Bars:
- Rich Layers: From the Oreo crust to the cream cheese filling and chocolate topping, each layer offers unique flavors and textures.
- Crowd-Pleaser: These bars are perfect for gatherings, and they’ll surely be a hit with chocolate and caramel lovers alike.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can make them ahead of time, allowing flavors to meld and develop.
- Simple Ingredients: With ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, these bars are surprisingly easy to make.
Ingredients
To make these decadent cheesecake bars, you’ll need:
- Crust:
- 24 Oreo cookies, crushed
- 6 tablespoons butter, melted
- Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- Dulce de Leche Layer:
- 1 cup dulce de leche
- Chocolate Ganache Topping:
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
How to Make Decadent Dulce de Leche Chocolate Cheesecake Bars
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing the edges to hang over for easy removal.
- Crush the Oreo cookies using a food processor or by placing them in a resealable bag and rolling with a rolling pin.
- Mix the crushed Oreos with the melted butter until fully combined.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to create a firm crust. Bake for 8-10 minutes until set. Let cool slightly.
- Make the Cheesecake Layer:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer until smooth.
- Add in the sugar and vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the Oreo crust and smooth it out with a spatula.
- Add the Dulce de Leche Layer:
- Gently spread the dulce de leche over the cream cheese layer. Use a spoon or an offset spatula to make an even layer without disturbing the cheesecake underneath.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the cheesecake layer is set but slightly jiggly in the center.
- Prepare the Chocolate Ganache:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the heavy cream until hot but not boiling.
- Add the chocolate chips to the hot cream and let sit for a minute, then stir until smooth and glossy.
- Pour the chocolate ganache over the cooled dulce de leche cheesecake layer and spread evenly.
- Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the cheesecake bars for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the layers to set.
- Once chilled, lift the bars out using the parchment paper edges and cut them into squares. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Success Tips
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Dulce de Leche Chocolate Cheesecake Bars come out perfect every time:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow cream cheese and eggs to come to room temperature before mixing. This helps achieve a smooth, lump-free cheesecake layer.
- Even Layers: When spreading the dulce de leche and ganache, take your time to ensure each layer is even and smooth.
- Chilling Time: The cheesecake bars need time to set properly, so don’t rush the chilling step. It allows the flavors to develop and makes cutting easier.
- Sharp Knife for Cutting: For clean cuts, dip a sharp knife in warm water, wipe it clean, and then slice. Repeat for each cut.
Storage
Refrigeration: Store these cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors continue to meld, making them even tastier on the second or third day.
Freezing: If you’d like to freeze them, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Notes
- Dulce de Leche: You can find dulce de leche in the international aisle of many grocery stores. Alternatively, you can make it at home by simmering a can of sweetened condensed milk.
- Oreo Crust: Feel free to experiment with different types of Oreo cookies (such as Golden Oreos or flavored versions) for a twist on the crust flavor.
- Chocolate Chips: Semisweet chocolate chips are recommended for the ganache to balance the sweetness of the dulce de leche. However, if you prefer a darker chocolate flavor, try using bittersweet chocolate chips.
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 350
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 220mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 22g
- Protein: 4g
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different crust for these bars?
A: Absolutely! While the Oreo crust is delicious, you can also use graham crackers, digestive biscuits, or any other cookie crust you prefer.
Q: What’s the best way to ensure the cheesecake layer is smooth?
A: Beat the cream cheese until completely smooth before adding sugar and eggs. Using room temperature ingredients helps avoid lumps in the batter.
Q: Can I make these bars without the chocolate ganache topping?
A: Yes, if you prefer a simpler version, you can skip the ganache. The bars will still taste fantastic with just the dulce de leche layer on top.
Q: How long should I chill the bars before cutting?
A: It’s best to chill them for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better for perfect setting and easy slicing.
Q: How do I avoid cracking in the cheesecake layer?
A: To prevent cracks, avoid overbaking the cheesecake. The center should still have a slight jiggle when you take it out of the oven. Cooling it in the pan before refrigerating also helps avoid cracking.
Conclusion
These Decadent Dulce de Leche Chocolate Cheesecake Bars are a rich, indulgent dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make. With a creamy cheesecake layer, luscious dulce de leche, and a chocolate ganache topping, they’re a show-stopping treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, celebrating a special occasion, or simply treating yourself, these bars are sure to impress.
Remember to follow the steps closely, give the bars plenty of time to chill, and enjoy each delicious layer in every bite. Happy baking!