Description
Delight in these Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars, a luscious fusion of buttery sugar cookie crust and creamy cheesecake filling. Perfectly baked to golden edges with a smooth, sweet center, these bars make an irresistible dessert for any occasion. Easy to prepare and customizable with your favorite toppings like sprinkles, whipped cream, or fresh berries, they are a festive and satisfying treat.
Ingredients
Scale
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 and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing the edges to overhang for easy removal after baking.
- Make the Cookie Crust: Press the refrigerated sugar cookie dough evenly into the bottom of the lined baking pan, ensuring a uniform layer to serve as the crust. Bake this crust for 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and the large egg. Mix thoroughly until fully combined and the mixture is smooth.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the partially baked cookie crust, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the center is set and edges have turned lightly golden.
- Cool and Chill: Remove the bars from the oven and let them cool at room temperature for about 1 hour. Then place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours to fully set the cheesecake layer before slicing.
- Serve: Lift the bars from the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Slice into 9 bars and top with sprinkles, whipped cream, or fresh berries if desired. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
- Use seasonal sugar cookie dough or add food coloring to the cheesecake layer for a festive twist.
- These bars can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator to enhance flavor and texture.
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the cheesecake filling.
- For easier slicing, chill bars thoroughly and use a sharp knife warmed under hot water.
