Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
If you’re hunting for the ultimate marriage of two classic treats, Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars are about to become your latest baking obsession. Imagine a buttery sugar cookie crust topped with a luxuriously creamy cheesecake layer, all finished with a playful sprinkle of color—these bars are pure happiness in every bite. They’re not just easy, they’re incredibly versatile, and the vibrant flavors mean they’ll steal the show at any gathering or cozy night in. Dessert should always be this much fun.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of simple ingredients, you’re on your way to making a showstopping treat. Each ingredient plays a starring role in the texture, flavor, or color of these bars—so don’t skip a single one!
- Refrigerated Sugar Cookie Dough: This is your shortcut to a tender, sweet crust that tastes homemade without the fuss.
- Cream Cheese: For the creamiest, dreamiest cheesecake layer, be sure it’s softened to room temperature.
- Granulated Sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the tang of the cream cheese.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash brings warmth and classic flavor to both the cookie and cheesecake layers.
- Large Egg: Acts as a binder, giving the cheesecake its signature silky texture.
- All-Purpose Flour: Just a spoonful helps the cheesecake set perfectly while remaining soft and luscious.
- Colorful Sprinkles or Sanding Sugar (optional): Finish with flare—a festive topping that adds crunch and visual pop.
How to Make Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Then, line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang on the sides. This handy trick not only keeps the bars from sticking but also allows you to lift them out in one piece for flawless slicing.
Step 2: Make the Sugar Cookie Crust
Unwrap your roll of refrigerated sugar cookie dough and press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Take your time to get it all the way to the edges and corners—an even crust means every bite has that buttery, sweet foundation we love in Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s perfectly smooth and fluffy. Add the granulated sugar, vanilla extract, egg, and flour. Mix until everything is blended and the batter is creamy—that’s the secret to that melt-in-your-mouth cheesecake layer.
Step 4: Assemble and Decorate
Pour the cheesecake mixture over your cookie dough crust, using a spatula to smooth it all the way to the edges. If you’re feeling festive, now’s the time to scatter colorful sprinkles or sanding sugar on top. The more, the merrier!
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know the Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars are done when the edges are lightly golden and the center looks set. Avoid overbaking—just a gentle wobble in the middle is perfect.
Step 6: Cool and Chill
Remove the bars from the oven and let them cool to room temperature right in the pan. Then, transfer them to the refrigerator for at least two hours. This extra chill time sets the cheesecake and makes the bars easy to slice into neat squares.
How to Serve Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars
Garnishes
To finish your Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars in style, sprinkle a few more colorful sprinkles, a dusting of powdered sugar, or even a dollop of whipped cream on top. Edible glitter or mini chocolate chips offer another fun twist if you’re dressing them up for a celebration.
Side Dishes
Balance the richness of these sweet bars with fresh berries or a scoop of tangy Greek yogurt on the side. For a more indulgent spread, pair with a frothy cappuccino or an iced coffee—desserts and coffee are always a winning combo.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars at your next party by cutting them into bite-sized pieces and arranging on a colorful platter, or pop them into cupcake liners for easy, grab-and-go treats. You can even layer them in jars with fresh fruit for a fun parfait-style dessert.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you (miraculously) have leftovers, store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh, creamy, and delicious for up to four days—although they rarely last that long!
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep beautifully for up to two months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
These bars are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, but if you love a softer texture, let them sit out for 10–15 minutes before eating. Reheating in the microwave isn’t recommended as it can alter the cheesecake texture, but you can briefly warm them for a custardy feel.
FAQs
Can I use homemade sugar cookie dough instead of refrigerated?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade sugar cookie dough recipe, feel free to use it for the base. Just make sure it totals about 16.5 ounces so your crust has the right thickness, and keep an eye on the baking time as homemade doughs may vary a bit.
Should I let the bars cool completely before slicing?
Yes, it’s best to allow the bars to cool at room temperature, then chill them for at least two hours in the refrigerator. This lets the cheesecake set, making for cleaner slices and the perfect firm-but-creamy texture that makes these bars irresistible.
Can I add mix-ins to the cheesecake layer?
Go for it! Try swirling in a bit of berry jam, folding in mini chocolate chips, or even adding a handful of crushed cookies to the cheesecake batter before baking to make these Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars your own.
How do I get neatly cut squares?
For picture-perfect bars, use a sharp knife dipped in warm water and wipe it clean between each cut. The chilled cheesecake slices beautifully this way, and the overhanging parchment paper makes it easy to lift the whole slab out of the pan first.
Are Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars suitable for making ahead for a party?
Definitely! In fact, they’re even better when made a day ahead because they have extra time to chill and set, allowing the flavors to meld together. Just store covered in the fridge and slice shortly before serving.
Final Thoughts
It’s impossible to resist the charm of Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars: they’re creamy, colorful, and completely crowd-pleasing. Whether you make a pan for a special occasion or just because, give these a try and prepare for rave reviews—and maybe a few requests for the recipe!
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Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 9 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful combination of a sugar cookie crust and a creamy cheesecake topping with these easy-to-make Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars. A perfect treat for any occasion!
Ingredients
Sugar Cookie Crust:
- 1 roll (16.5 oz) refrigerated sugar cookie dough
Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese (softened)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
Optional Topping:
- Colorful sprinkles or sanding sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- Press the sugar cookie dough evenly into the bottom of the pan to form the crust.
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the sugar, vanilla extract, egg, and flour, and mix until fully combined and creamy.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cookie dough crust and spread evenly. If desired, top with sprinkles or sanding sugar for a festive finish.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing and serving.
Notes
- These bars can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge.
- Use homemade sugar cookie dough if preferred.
- For easy slicing, use a sharp knife dipped in warm water.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
