Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Sweet, creamy, and absolutely irresistible, Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate dessert mash-up for anyone who loves a classic cookie and rich cheesecake all in one bite. These bars combine the buttery goodness of sugar cookie dough with a tangy, smooth cheesecake filling, crowned with a shower of colorful sprinkles or your favorite toppings. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or quiet evenings at home, they never fail to steal the show. If you’re craving a treat that’s simple to make but sure to wow every sweet tooth, these bars deserve a permanent spot in your recipe box.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how just a handful of everyday ingredients create the magic in these bars. Each one plays an important role in building the luscious layers and bright flavors of Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars, so don’t skip a thing!
- 1 (16.5 oz) roll refrigerated sugar cookie dough: The secret shortcut to a soft and chewy crust with classic cookie flavor, all in minutes.
- 2 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese, softened: For the filling to be super creamy and smooth, let your cream cheese warm up to room temperature first.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake layer just enough, balancing the tang of the cream cheese perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds cozy warmth and depth to the cheesecake filling—don’t skimp on pure vanilla if you can!
- 1 large egg: Helps set the cheesecake layer with a rich texture and beautiful structure.
- Optional toppings (sprinkles, whipped cream, or fresh berries): The finishing touch for color, celebration, or a seasonal flair. Pick your favorite or go all out!
How to Make Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars
Step 1: Preheat and Prep the Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. To make removal (and cleanup!) a breeze, line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and leave some overhang on the sides. Trust me, when you’re ready to slice those perfect Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars, this little trick is a game changer.
Step 2: Create the Cookie Crust
Break out your roll of refrigerated sugar cookie dough and press it evenly into the bottom of your pan. You want a nice, uniform layer so that every bite gets that signature cookie taste. Pop it in the oven for 10 minutes—just enough to give it a head start and ensure it stays beautifully golden and sturdy beneath all that creamy filling.
Step 3: Whip Up the Cheesecake Layer
While the crust is cooling for a minute, grab a medium mixing bowl. Beat the softened cream cheese until it’s luxuriously smooth. Add in the sugar, vanilla extract, and egg, mixing until everything is combined and creamy. This mixture will look glossy and thick—totally spreadable and ready to transform into a melt-in-your-mouth cheesecake layer.
Step 4: Layer and Bake
Pour your cheesecake mixture over the slightly cooled cookie crust, spreading it into an even layer right to the edges. Slide the pan back into the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are lightly golden and the center just barely jiggles. Try not to overbake—this keeps your Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars wonderfully soft and creamy.
Step 5: Cool and Chill
For the best texture and easy slicing, patience is rewarded! Allow the bars to cool at room temperature for about 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours so the cheesecake sets up perfectly. When you’re ready, lift the bars out using the parchment paper and slice into generous squares.
Step 6: Add Toppings and Enjoy
Now for the fun part! Top your Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars with a handful of sprinkles for a festive touch, or pile on whipped cream and fresh berries if you’re feeling extra fancy. There’s no wrong answer here—go with what makes your dessert-loving heart happiest.
How to Serve Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars
Garnishes
Bring your bars to life with a riot of toppings! Colorful sprinkles make them perfect for parties or kids’ birthdays, while a dollop of whipped cream or a scattering of fresh berries turn them into a sophisticated, eye-catching dessert for any occasion. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds that bakery-style charm, too.
Side Dishes
For a truly memorable dessert spread, serve these bars alongside a cup of strong coffee or a pot of fragrant tea. They also pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, especially if you want to take things totally over the top. During the holidays, mulled cider or hot cocoa are wonderful counterparts for Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the bars into bite-sized cubes and thread them onto skewers with fruit for fun dessert kabobs. For a holiday party, arrange them on a multi-tiered cake stand with colorful ribbons or edible glitter. Personalize each bar with guests’ initials in icing for brunches, showers, or birthday celebrations—the options are endless!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once they’ve cooled and been sliced, store any remaining Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days—though they’re so tempting, you’ll be lucky if they last even half that long!
Freezing
If you want to stash some bars away for later or prep ahead for a crowd, these bars freeze beautifully. Just wrap the cooled, uncut slab or individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Pop them into a freezer-safe bag or container and they’ll keep for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Reheating
Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars are best enjoyed chilled, but if you like a slightly softer cheesecake center, let bars sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, as the crust can turn a bit chewy and the cheesecake may lose its silky consistency.
FAQs
Can I use homemade sugar cookie dough instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! If you have a trusty homemade sugar cookie dough recipe, feel free to swap it in for the refrigerated dough in this recipe. Just make sure you use about 16.5 ounces to match the pan size. The result will be just as delicious, with your personal touch shining through.
Can I double this recipe for a bigger crowd?
Yes! To make enough Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars for a party, simply double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Keep an eye on the baking time—the bars may need a few extra minutes in the oven to set, but they’ll turn out just as perfect.
What types of sugar cookie dough work best?
Classic refrigerated sugar cookie dough is perfect for these bars, but don’t hesitate to get creative! Try using flavored or seasonal doughs (like pumpkin or lemon) for a fun twist that adds even more personality to your Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars.
Why does my cheesecake layer have cracks?
Cheesecake can crack if it’s overbaked or cools down too quickly. To minimize cracking, be sure not to overmix your cheesecake filling, avoid overbaking, and let the bars cool gradually at room temperature before refrigerating. Even if you spot a crack or two, don’t stress—a generous topping hides all!
Can I make Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars ahead for an event?
Definitely! These bars are an entertainer’s dream since they taste even better after a stint in the fridge. Make them the day before your party, keep them chilled, and slice just before serving for the freshest, easiest dessert around.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dessert that brings big smiles and even bigger flavor, you can’t go wrong with Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars. They’re simple enough for everyday baking yet special enough to impress at any gathering. Give them a try and let these dreamy layers of cookie and cheesecake become your new family favorite!
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Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes (includes chilling)
- Yield: 9 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the heavenly combination of sugar cookies and creamy cheesecake with these delightful Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars. A perfect treat for any occasion!
Ingredients
Sugar Cookie Crust:
- 1 (16.5 oz) roll refrigerated sugar cookie dough
Cheesecake Filling:
- 2 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
Optional Toppings:
- Sprinkles
- Whipped cream
- Fresh berries
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- Prepare the crust: Press the sugar cookie dough evenly into the bottom of the pan to form the crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then cool slightly.
- Make the filling: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, vanilla, and egg; mix until creamy.
- Assemble: Pour the cheesecake mixture over the baked crust, spread evenly.
- Bake: Bake for 25–30 minutes until set. Cool, then refrigerate for 2 hours.
- Serve: Slice into bars and top with desired toppings.
Notes
- For a festive touch, use seasonal sugar cookie dough or add food coloring to the cheesecake layer.
- Bars can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
