No-Bake Dulce De Leche Cheesecake – Silky, Creamy & Irresistible
Introduction: Why You’ll Love This No-Bake Dulce De Leche Cheesecake
This cheesecake is perfect for special occasions, summer gatherings, or when you crave a decadent treat without the hassle of baking. It features a buttery pecan-graham cracker crust, a smooth dulce de leche cheesecake filling, and a luscious caramel topping that takes it to the next level.
Keep reading to discover how to make this easy no-bake cheesecake, along with expert tips, FAQs, and storage recommendations.
Why This Recipe Works
✔️ No oven required – Perfect for warm days or when you need a hassle-free dessert.
✔️ Rich caramel flavor – The dulce de leche adds a deep, caramelized taste that enhances the cheesecake.
✔️ Easy-to-make crust – A simple mix of graham crackers, pecans, and butter creates the perfect base.
✔️ Creamy and smooth texture – The cheesecake filling is velvety and indulgent.
✔️ Great for make-ahead desserts – Chill it overnight and serve it the next day!
Ingredients for No-Bake Dulce De Leche Cheesecake
For the Pecan Graham Cracker Crust:
- 16 (62 grams) Honey Maid graham crackers (or your favorite biscuits)
- 1 cup (125 grams) pecans, lightly toasted
- ¼ cup (50 grams) brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon Kosher salt
- ½ cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, melted
For the No-Bake Dulce De Leche Cheesecake Filling:
- 4 (8oz) blocks (904 grams) full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- ½ cup (115ml) heavy cream
- ½ cup (100 grams) sugar
- 1 tablespoon (7.5 grams) cornstarch
- ¼ teaspoon Kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 1 cup (225 grams) dulce de leche
For the Dulce De Leche Topping:
- ½ cup (115ml) heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups (340 grams) dulce de leche
How to Make No-Bake Dulce De Leche Cheesecake
Step 1: Make the Crust
- Prepare the pan – Grease a 9-inch or 10-inch springform pan and set aside.
- Crush the ingredients – In a food processor, pulse the graham crackers, pecans, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt until finely ground.
- Add butter – Pour in the melted butter and pulse a few times until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press into the pan – Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and press it firmly into the bottom and slightly up the sides.
- Chill the crust – Place the crust in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- Beat the ingredients – In a large bowl, use a hand mixer to beat the cream cheese, heavy cream, sugar, cornstarch, salt, vanilla extract, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy.
- Add dulce de leche – Mix in the dulce de leche until fully incorporated. Do not overmix.
- Pour into crust – Spread the filling evenly over the chilled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Chill to set – Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or preferably overnight for the best texture.
Step 3: Make the Dulce De Leche Topping
- Heat the cream – In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, warm the heavy cream until it begins to simmer.
- Stir in dulce de leche – Add the dulce de leche and whisk constantly until smooth and slightly thickened, about 5 to 8 minutes.
- Cool the topping – Remove from heat and let it cool. The sauce will continue thickening as it cools.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
- Release the cheesecake – Remove the cheesecake from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes. Run a knife around the edges before removing the springform pan.
- Pour the topping – Spread the dulce de leche topping evenly over the cheesecake.
- Slice and enjoy – Use a sharp knife to cut slices, wiping the knife between cuts for clean edges.
Expert Tips for the Perfect No-Bake Cheesecake
✔️ Use full-fat ingredients – Full-fat cream cheese and heavy cream create a rich and creamy texture.
✔️ Chill for at least 6 hours – Overnight chilling is best for a firm, sliceable cheesecake.
✔️ Don’t overmix the filling – Overmixing can incorporate too much air, causing cracks.
✔️ Toast the pecans – Lightly toasting the pecans enhances their nutty flavor.
✔️ Make ahead – This cheesecake can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the fridge.
FAQs About No-Bake Dulce De Leche Cheesecake
Can I use a different crust?
Yes! You can use an Oreo crust, Biscoff cookie crust, or even a chocolate cookie crust for a fun variation.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free graham crackers or almond flour instead of the crust.
How long does it last?
This cheesecake keeps well in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days, covered.
Can I freeze it?
Yes! Wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Final Thoughts
This No-Bake Dulce De Leche Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert for caramel lovers. With its buttery pecan crust, creamy dulce de leche filling, and luscious topping, it’s a show-stopping treat that requires minimal effort.
Try this recipe today, and let us know how it turns out in the comments below!
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