Dulce de Leche Cheesecake
Indulgently creamy Dulce de Leche Cheesecake combines a smooth, velvety cheesecake base with the rich, sweet caramel flavor of dulce de leche. This elegant dessert is easy to make with simple pantry staples and perfect for celebrations or a special treat any day. Its balanced sweetness and customizable options make it a crowd-pleasing classic.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free crust alternative)
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons sugar
Filling
- 24 oz (680g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup dulce de leche
- 1 cup sour cream or heavy cream
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Prepare the crust: Start by combining graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl, mixing until the texture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create an even layer. Refrigerate while preparing the filling.
- Mix the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Slowly add sugar and continue mixing to achieve a light texture. Blend in the eggs one at a time, followed by sour cream (or heavy cream) and vanilla extract. Finally, gently fold in the dulce de leche, ensuring it’s well incorporated but not overmixed.
- Bake the cheesecake: Pour the filling over the prepared crust and spread evenly. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for about 50 to 60 minutes. The edges should be set, but the center should jiggle slightly. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for an hour to cool gradually.
- Chill and serve: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to let it fully set and develop its flavors. Remove from the springform pan before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs to ensure a smooth batter without lumps.
- Do not overmix to prevent incorporating too much air, which can cause cracks during baking.
- Consider using a water bath when baking to maintain moisture and prevent cracking.
- Choose high-quality dulce de leche for the best flavor.
- Cool the cheesecake slowly in the oven to avoid sinking or cracking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cake)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 28 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg
Keywords: dulce de leche cheesecake, caramel cheesecake, creamy dessert, baked cheesecake, gluten-free dessert option