Oh my gosh, let me tell you about these dulce de leche chocolate cheesecake bars! They’re a heavenly combination of rich chocolate and smooth, creamy cheesecake, all wrapped up in a buttery graham cracker crust. Honestly, every bite feels like a little hug for your taste buds! I remember the first time I made these for a gathering; everyone went absolutely wild for them! The sweetness of the dulce de leche really takes it to another level, creating a luscious texture that just melts in your mouth. They’re perfect for any occasion—whether you’re celebrating something special or just need a little pick-me-up during the week. Trust me, once you try these bars, they’ll become a go-to dessert in your kitchen, too!
Ingredients List
Gather up these simple yet essential ingredients to create your dulce de leche chocolate cheesecake bars. Each one plays a vital role in bringing out that delightful flavor and creamy texture!
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs – This will form the base of your bars, giving them that classic buttery crunch.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted – This helps bind the crust together and adds richness to every bite.
- 2 cups cream cheese, softened – The star of the show! Softened cream cheese ensures a smooth, creamy filling.
- 1 cup dulce de leche – This luscious caramel treat is what makes these bars so special and indulgent.
- 1 cup chocolate chips – For that extra chocolatey goodness that pairs perfectly with the cheesecake.
- ½ cup granulated sugar – Just the right amount to sweeten the filling without overpowering the other flavors.
- 2 large eggs – These help set the cheesecake, giving it that perfect, creamy texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor, making it even more delightful.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and elevate all the flavors.
How to Prepare dulce de leche chocolate cheesecake bars
Now, let’s dive into the fun part—making these dulce de leche chocolate cheesecake bars! It’s super simple, and I promise, you’ll be rewarded with a decadent treat that everyone will love.
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for baking these bars to perfection!
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix until it’s nicely blended; you want it to resemble wet sand.
- Next, press that crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×9 inch baking pan. This will be the delicious crust that holds everything together.
- Now, in a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until it’s smooth and creamy. I usually use an electric mixer for this part—it makes life easier!
- Add in the dulce de leche, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix everything until it’s well combined. Don’t rush this step; you want that luscious filling to be completely blended.
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips—this is where the magic happens! You’ll want those little pockets of chocolate to melt into the cheesecake as it bakes.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the prepared crust, spreading it out evenly. It’s okay if it’s not perfect; it’ll taste amazing no matter what!
- Now, pop it in the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Keep an eye on it—you want it just right!
- Once it’s done, let it cool completely in the pan. After it’s cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing. This step is key for getting those perfect bars!
And there you have it! Easy, right? You’re on your way to enjoying these delightful cheesecake bars!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have these bars ready to bake in no time. Perfect for those busy days when you need a sweet fix!
- Rich Flavor: The combination of dulce de leche and chocolate creates an indulgent flavor that’s hard to resist. Each bite is a heavenly experience!
- Creamy Texture: The creamy cheesecake filling melts in your mouth, balanced perfectly with the crunchy graham cracker crust. It’s a delightful contrast that keeps you coming back for more.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a special event, or just treating yourself, these bars fit right in!
- Easy to Slice and Serve: Cutting them into bars makes serving a breeze, and they’re easy to transport if you’re sharing with friends or family.
- Make Ahead: These bars can be made in advance and stored in the fridge, so you can enjoy them at your convenience. Just remember to resist the temptation to dive in before they’re chilled!
Tips for Success
Let me share some of my best tips to ensure your dulce de leche chocolate cheesecake bars turn out perfectly every time! Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can make all the difference.
- Softened Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This helps achieve that smooth and creamy texture. If you forget to take it out beforehand, you can microwave it for about 10-15 seconds, but keep an eye on it!
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the filling ingredients, mix just until smooth. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, which might cause your cheesecake to crack while baking.
- Check for Doneness: You want the center to be set but still slightly jiggly—this is key! If it’s too firm, it might end up dry. A little jiggle is good because it will firm up as it cools in the fridge.
- Cool Slowly: After baking, let the bars cool in the pan. This gradual cooling helps prevent cracks. Once they’re at room temperature, pop them in the fridge to chill completely.
- Chill Before Slicing: Patience is key! Refrigerating the bars for at least 2 hours (or even overnight) helps them firm up, making it much easier to cut neat, clean bars.
- Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to get creative! Drizzling more dulce de leche on top before serving or adding some whipped cream can elevate your bars even more. Maybe sprinkle some sea salt for a sweet-savory twist!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re ready to whip up the best dulce de leche chocolate cheesecake bars! Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to savor every delicious bite!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve whipped up these amazing dulce de leche chocolate cheesecake bars, let’s talk about how to serve them for the best experience! Trust me, pairing them with the right accompaniments can elevate your dessert game to a whole new level!
- Coffee: A rich cup of coffee is a match made in heaven with these bars. The bold flavors of the coffee balance the sweetness of the cheesecake, creating a delightful contrast. Plus, it’s the perfect way to enjoy them as an afternoon treat!
- Fresh Berries: Adding a side of fresh berries, like strawberries or raspberries, not only brings a pop of color to your plate but also adds a refreshing tartness that cuts through the creaminess of the bars. It’s like a little burst of summer with every bite!
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top adds an extra layer of creaminess that takes these bars to the next level. You can even sprinkle a bit of cocoa powder or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for that extra flair!
- Ice Cream: For a decadent twist, serve these bars with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream. The melting ice cream combined with the warm flavors of the cheesecake makes for a truly indulgent dessert experience!
- Chocolate Ganache: If you’re feeling extra indulgent, drizzle some warm chocolate ganache over the bars just before serving. It adds a luxurious finish and enhances that chocolatey goodness!
These serving suggestions will surely impress your family and friends, and they’ll be begging for seconds! Enjoy experimenting and finding your perfect pairing with these dulce de leche chocolate cheesecake bars!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk numbers! Here’s the estimated nutritional information for each delightful dulce de leche chocolate cheesecake bar. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, but this will give you a good idea of what to expect:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 20g
- Protein: 4g
These bars are a delicious treat, and while they’re a bit indulgent, they’re totally worth it for that incredible flavor! Enjoy them in moderation, and savor every bite!
FAQ Section
Got questions about these dulce de leche chocolate cheesecake bars? No worries! I’ve got you covered with some common queries that often pop up:
Can I use store-bought dulce de leche?
Absolutely! Store-bought dulce de leche is a great time-saver and will work perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to choose a quality brand for the best flavor.
What if I don’t have a 9×9 inch pan?
If you don’t have a 9×9 inch baking pan, no problem! You can use an 8×8 inch pan for thicker bars or even a 9×13 inch pan for thinner bars. Just adjust the baking time accordingly!
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, you can! These bars actually taste even better after they’ve been chilled in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. Just remember to store them in an airtight container!
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The best way to check is to look for a set center that still has a slight jiggle. It should be firm around the edges but a bit soft in the middle. Remember, they will continue to set as they cool!
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Definitely! These bars freeze really well. Just wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container. Thaw in the fridge before enjoying!
These answers should help you on your way to making the perfect dulce de leche chocolate cheesecake bars! If you have any more questions, feel free to reach out!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made these delicious dulce de leche chocolate cheesecake bars and now you’re wondering how to keep them fresh for later? No worries! Storing them is super simple, and I’ve got some great tips for you.
First off, once your bars have completely cooled and chilled in the fridge, you’ll want to store them in an airtight container. This helps keep them fresh and prevents any funky fridge odors from sneaking in. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just make sure to cut them into bars before storing, so they’re ready to grab whenever you need a sweet treat!
If you’d like to keep them longer, you can freeze these bars, and they hold up beautifully! Individually wrap each bar in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. This way, they won’t stick together, and you can take out just what you want. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge—no need to rush the process!
As for reheating, I recommend serving these bars chilled for the best texture and flavor. However, if you prefer them slightly warmed up, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Just be careful not to overheat them; you want to maintain that creamy goodness without melting them into a puddle!
With these storage and reheating tips, you’ll be able to savor your dulce de leche chocolate cheesecake bars anytime the craving strikes! Enjoy every delicious bite!
Imprimer
Dulce de Leche Chocolate Cheesecake Bars: 5 Indulgent Tips
- Temps Total: 2 hours 50 minutes
- Rendement: 16 bars 1x
- Alimentation: Végétarien
Description
Delicious dulce de leche chocolate cheesecake bars with a creamy texture and rich flavor.
Ingrédients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup dulce de leche
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a bowl.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×9 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add dulce de leche, eggs, vanilla, and salt; mix until well combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until set.
- Cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing.
Notes
- Cut into bars for easy serving.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Can be topped with extra dulce de leche before serving.
- Temps De Préparation: 15 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 35 minutes
- Catégorie: Dessert
- Méthode: Baking
- Cuisine: American
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 bar
- Calories: 250
- Sucre: 20g
- De Sodium: 150mg
- La graisse: 15g
- Graisses Saturées: 9g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 4g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 30g
- La fibre: 1g
- La protéine: 4g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 45mg
Mots-clés: dulce de leche chocolate cheesecake bars
