Dulce de Leche Cheesecake: A Creamy, Caramel-Infused Delight

If you’re a fan of rich, creamy desserts with a touch of caramelized indulgence, dulce de leche cheesecake is about to become your new favorite treat. This dessert marries the silky smooth texture of classic cheesecake with the deep, toasty sweetness of dulce de leche, a thick caramel-like sauce popular in Latin American cuisine. The combination results in a decadent, melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s impossible to resist.

Perfect for special occasions or simply when you’re craving something luxuriously sweet, this cheesecake strikes the perfect balance between tangy cream cheese and the warm, caramelized notes of dulce de leche. Whether you serve it plain or topped with extra caramel drizzle, whipped cream, or even a sprinkle of sea salt, this dessert is guaranteed to be a showstopper.

Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe, complete with a buttery cookie crust, a luscious dulce de leche-infused cheesecake filling, and a glossy caramel topping that will leave you craving another slice.

Ingredients

For the Crust

Ingredient	Quantity
Graham cracker crumbs	2 cups
Unsalted butter, melted	½ cup (1 stick)
Granulated sugar	2 tbsp
Ground cinnamon (optional)	½ tsp

For the Cheesecake Filling

Ingredient	Quantity
Cream cheese, softened	24 oz (3 blocks)
Dulce de leche	1 cup
Granulated sugar	½ cup
Large eggs	3
Vanilla extract	1 tsp
Heavy cream	½ cup
Cornstarch	1 tbsp
Lemon juice (optional, for tang)	1 tsp

For the Topping

Ingredient	Quantity
Dulce de leche	½ cup
Heavy cream	2 tbsp
Sea salt (optional)	A pinch

Garnishes (Optional but Recommended)

• Whipped cream
• Caramel drizzle
• Chocolate shavings
• Toasted pecans or almonds

Equipment Needed

• 9-inch springform pan (essential for easy removal)
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Saucepan (for melting the topping)
• Water bath setup (a large roasting pan for even baking)

Using a springform pan ensures that your cheesecake maintains its structure when unmolded, while a water bath helps achieve a smooth, crack-free texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon (if using). Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated with butter.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9-inch springform pan, creating an even crust.
4. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then set aside to cool while you prepare the filling.

2. Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the dulce de leche and sugar, and continue mixing until fully incorporated.
3. Add eggs one at a time, beating just until combined (avoid overmixing to prevent cracking).
4. Mix in the vanilla extract, heavy cream, cornstarch, and optional lemon juice. The batter should be thick and silky.

3. Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
2. Place the springform pan in a large roasting pan and fill the roasting pan with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the cheesecake pan (this water bath helps prevent cracks).
3. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 55–65 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly but set around the edges.
4. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly open for an hour. Then refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.

4. Prepare the Topping and Garnish

1. In a saucepan over low heat, warm the dulce de leche with heavy cream, stirring until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture over the chilled cheesecake, spreading evenly.
3. Garnish with whipped cream, caramel drizzle, chocolate shavings, or nuts if desired.

Tips and Variations

• Avoid Overmixing: Overbeating the batter introduces air, which can cause the cheesecake to rise too much and then collapse. Mix gently!
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure cream cheese, eggs, and heavy cream are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
• Crust Alternatives: Swap graham crackers for crushed Oreos, Biscoff cookies, or even ground nuts for a different flavor.
• Chocolate Swirl: Drizzle melted chocolate into the batter before baking for a marbled effect.
• Vegan or Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese, coconut milk instead of heavy cream, and a flaxseed egg substitute.

Serving Suggestions

For the best experience, serve this cheesecake chilled, allowing the flavors to fully develop. A drizzle of warm dulce de leche just before serving enhances its richness. A sprinkle of sea salt on top balances out the sweetness, while a dollop of whipped cream adds an airy contrast.

Pair it with fresh berries for a fruity contrast or toasted pecans for added crunch. For an elegant touch, serve slices on individual plates with a drizzle of caramel and a dusting of cocoa powder.

Perfect Pairings

This dessert pairs beautifully with:

• Espresso or Coffee – The bitterness of coffee balances the rich caramel flavor.
• Dark Rum or Bourbon – These spirits enhance the deep, caramelized notes of dulce de leche.
• Sweet Dessert Wines – A glass of late-harvest Riesling or Moscato complements the creamy texture.
• Chai Latte – The spiced notes contrast beautifully with the cheesecake’s sweetness.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
• Reheating: Cheesecake is best served chilled, but if you prefer a softer texture, let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before eating.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~450
Fat	30g
Carbohydrates	45g
Protein	7g
Sugar	35g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.

Conclusion

Dulce de leche cheesecake is the perfect blend of creamy, caramelized indulgence and classic cheesecake richness. With its buttery graham cracker crust, smooth and luscious filling, and glossy dulce de leche topping, this dessert is truly a showstopper. Whether you serve it plain or with elegant garnishes like whipped cream and chocolate shavings, every bite melts in your mouth with a balance of tangy and sweet flavors. It’s a dessert that feels luxurious yet is simple enough to make at home with just a few key ingredients.

Whether you’re preparing it for a celebration, a dinner party, or just a personal treat, this cheesecake is sure to impress. Pair it with a strong espresso, a glass of dessert wine, or even a chai latte for the ultimate experience. Try this recipe, and don’t forget to share your thoughts, variations, and photos in the comments. Happy baking!