These Dulce de Leche Chocolate Cheesecake Bars are an indulgent treat, featuring a rich and creamy chocolate cheesecake filling on top of a decadent Oreo crust. A luscious layer of dulce de leche adds a caramel-like sweetness, while a smooth chocolate ganache completes this delightful dessert. Perfect for special occasions or simply satisfying your sweet cravings!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

Crust:

1 package Oreos, crushed into fine crumbs
½ cup butter, melted

Filling:

1 can dulce de leche
6 oz semi-sweet chocolate
6 oz bittersweet chocolate (or German chocolate for a sweeter taste)
3 packages cream cheese (8 oz each, softened)
1 cup sugar
¼ cup dark brown sugar (or light brown sugar)
2 tbsp cocoa powder
4 large eggs
2 egg yolks
1 cup heavy cream
2 tsp vanilla

Ganache:

12 oz semi-sweet chocolate
1 cup heavy cream

Directions

For the Crust:

Preheat the oven to 350℉. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with aluminum foil and spray lightly with nonstick baking spray.
In a bowl, mix the crushed Oreos and melted butter until well combined.
Press the mixture into the bottom of the pan and slightly up the sides.
Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
Heat the dulce de leche in the microwave for 30 seconds, then pour it over the cooled crust.

For the Filling:

Lower the oven temperature to 325℉.
Melt the semi-sweet and bittersweet chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water, stirring occasionally until smooth. Remove from heat.
In a stand mixer, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add both sugars and cocoa powder, mixing until creamy.
Add the eggs, yolks, and heavy cream, mixing briefly until combined. Avoid overmixing.
Fold in the melted chocolate and vanilla, then gently stir to ensure an even mixture.
Pour the filling over the crust and spread evenly.
Bake for 30 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
Remove from oven, cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours.

For the Ganache:

Place chopped chocolate in a bowl.
In a saucepan over medium heat, bring the heavy cream to a simmer.
Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let sit for 1 minute.
Whisk until smooth and glossy, then let cool slightly.
Pour the ganache over the chilled cheesecake and spread evenly.
Let set for 1 hour before slicing.

Nutrients (Per Serving, Approximate)

Calories: 1014 kcal
Protein: 10g
Carbohydrates: 102g
Fat: 65g
Saturated Fat: 38g
Sugar: 85g
Cholesterol: 210mg
Sodium: 420mg

Enjoy these irresistible Chocolate Cheesecake Bars, and be prepared for everyone to ask for the recipe! 🍫✨

The Perfect Combination of Flavors

Each layer of these bars brings something unique to the table. The Oreo crust offers a crunchy contrast to the velvety cheesecake, while the dulce de leche adds a decadent, caramel-infused sweetness that enhances the chocolate flavors. The combination of semi-sweet and bittersweet chocolate in the cheesecake filling creates a depth of flavor that is neither too sweet nor too bitter. Finally, the ganache topping provides a silky, luxurious finish that makes these bars irresistible.

The Appeal of Dulce de Leche

Dulce de leche, a staple in Latin American desserts, is a thick and creamy caramel-like spread made from sweetened condensed milk. Its deep, rich sweetness pairs beautifully with chocolate, making it a perfect addition to this cheesecake bar recipe. Unlike traditional caramel, which is made by melting sugar, dulce de leche is created through slow caramelization, resulting in a more complex and milky flavor profile.

Why Cheesecake Bars Instead of a Traditional Cheesecake?

Cheesecake bars are a fantastic alternative to a full-sized cheesecake for several reasons. First, they are easier to prepare and require less baking time. Second, they offer a more convenient serving size, making them ideal for parties, potlucks, or any gathering where individual portions are preferred. Lastly, they provide a perfect balance of crust, filling, and topping in every bite, ensuring a satisfying experience.

Texture and Consistency

The texture of these cheesecake bars is incredibly smooth and creamy. The rich cheesecake filling is balanced by the crunch of the Oreo crust and the silky ganache topping. The bars hold their shape well when chilled, making them easy to cut into clean, uniform squares. To achieve the best consistency, it is crucial to let the bars chill for at least four hours or overnight before slicing.

Tips for the Best Cheesecake Bars

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring that the cream cheese, eggs, and heavy cream are at room temperature helps achieve a smoother batter without lumps.
Avoid Overmixing: Overmixing can introduce too much air into the batter, leading to cracks in the cheesecake.
Bake at a Lower Temperature: Baking at 325°F rather than a higher temperature prevents the cheesecake from overcooking or cracking.
Chill Thoroughly: Letting the bars chill for at least four hours enhances their flavor and texture, making them easier to cut and serve.

Serving Suggestions

Dulce de Leche Chocolate Cheesecake Bars are delicious on their own, but they can be elevated with a few extra touches:

Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light contrast to the richness of the bars.
Sea Salt: A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt enhances the chocolate and caramel flavors.
Fresh Berries: Strawberries, raspberries, or blackberries add a tart contrast to the sweet and creamy layers.
Caramel Drizzle: An extra drizzle of dulce de leche or caramel sauce makes for a stunning presentation.

Storage and Shelf Life

These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, they can be frozen for up to three months. To freeze, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a sealed freezer bag. When ready to eat, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

The Ultimate Dessert for Any Occasion

Whether you’re making these for a holiday gathering, birthday celebration, or just as a treat for yourself, Dulce de Leche Chocolate Cheesecake Bars are sure to impress. Their rich and creamy texture, paired with the irresistible flavors of chocolate and dulce de leche, make them a standout dessert that will have everyone asking for the recipe.

Conclusion

Dulce de Leche Chocolate Cheesecake Bars are a true indulgence that combines the best elements of cheesecake, chocolate, and caramel flavors. The combination of a crunchy Oreo crust, velvety cheesecake filling, sweet dulce de leche, and a smooth chocolate ganache results in an irresistible treat that is perfect for any occasion. By following the tips for the best texture and flavor, you can create a dessert that will leave a lasting impression on anyone who tries it. So go ahead and treat yourself to this luxurious dessert – you deserve it!

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