Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Dough
In a bowl mix together:
- flour
- powdered sugar
- salt
Add the cold butter cubes and rub them into the flour mixture using your fingers or a pastry cutter until it becomes crumbly.
Add vanilla extract and mix until a soft dough forms.
Step 3: Form the Base
Press two-thirds of the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
Bake for 12–15 minutes until lightly golden.
Let it cool slightly.
Step 4: Add the Dulce de Leche
Spread the dulce de leche evenly over the baked base.
Use a spatula to smooth it out.
Step 5: Add the Crumble
Sprinkle the remaining dough crumbs evenly over the dulce de leche layer.
Step 6: Bake Again
Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes until the top becomes light golden brown.
Step 7: Cool Completely
Let the dessert cool completely in the pan.
This helps the caramel layer set properly.
Step 8: Cut and Serve
Remove from the pan and cut into squares or bars.
Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with chocolate if desired.
✅ Tips for Perfect Dulce de Leche Squares
- Use good-quality dulce de leche for the best flavor.
- Chill the bars for 30 minutes before cutting for cleaner slices.
- Add chopped pecans or walnuts for extra texture.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
If you want, I can also give you:
- 3-Ingredient Dulce de Leche Dessert Bars
- Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars
- No-Bake Dulce de Leche Squares
- Dulce de Leche Coconut Bars.