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If you love creamy, decadent desserts, this Dulce de Leche Cheesecake is about to become your new favorite! With a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth, caramel-kissed cheesecake filling, and a silky dulce de leche topping, this dessert is pure indulgence in every bite.
Perfect for special occasions, holidays, or just because you love a rich, creamy treat, this Latin-inspired cheesecake will have everyone coming back for seconds!
🍰 What You’ll Need
👉 For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (or Maria cookies for an authentic touch)
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- ½ tsp cinnamon (optional, but delicious!)
- 6 tbsp melted butter
👉 For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup dulce de leche (plus extra for topping)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup heavy cream
👉 For the Dulce de Leche Topping:
- ½ cup dulce de leche
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
- A pinch of sea salt (optional, for salted caramel vibes!)
👉 For Garnishing:
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate shavings
- Chopped pecans or almonds
🍮 How to Make Dulce de Leche Cheesecake
Step 1: Make the Crust
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2️⃣ In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter until combined.
3️⃣ Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let cool.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
4️⃣ In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
5️⃣ Mix in dulce de leche and vanilla, scraping down the sides as needed.
6️⃣ Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed until just combined.
7️⃣ Stir in heavy cream and mix until smooth.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
8️⃣ Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust.
9️⃣ Place the pan in a larger baking dish and pour hot water into the dish (about halfway up the sides of the springform pan).
🔟 Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
1️⃣1️⃣ Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour (this prevents cracks!).
1️⃣2️⃣ Transfer to the fridge and chill for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Step 4: Add the Dulce de Leche Topping
1️⃣3️⃣ Warm the dulce de leche and heavy cream in a small saucepan until pourable.
1️⃣4️⃣ Pour over the chilled cheesecake and spread evenly. Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt if using.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
1️⃣5️⃣ Slice and serve with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or chopped nuts for extra indulgence.
✨ Easy Variations & Tips
🔥 Want Extra Caramel Flavor? Drizzle with more dulce de leche before serving.
🍫 Chocolate Lover? Add a chocolate ganache drizzle on top!
🥥 Coconut Twist? Swap half the heavy cream for coconut milk for a tropical twist.
❄️ Make Ahead? This cheesecake stores well in the fridge for up to 5 days or can be frozen for up to 2 months!
💡 What to Serve with It?
- A warm cup of café de olla (Mexican spiced coffee) ☕
- Fresh berries to balance the richness 🍓
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra decadent treat 🍦
This Dulce de Leche Cheesecake is rich, creamy, and full of caramel goodness, making it the perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or just treating yourself, one bite of this luscious cheesecake, and you’ll be hooked!
