If you have a soft spot for both sugar cookies and creamy cheesecake, you are absolutely going to fall in love with this Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars Recipe. It perfectly marries the buttery sweetness of a sugar cookie crust with a rich, smooth cheesecake layer, creating a dessert bar that is both familiar and delightfully indulgent. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or just treating yourself after a long day, this recipe is straightforward enough for bakers of all levels and yields bars that are irresistibly luscious with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet essential, each bringing its own magic to the Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars Recipe. From the buttery sugar cookie dough that forms a perfectly tender crust, to the creamy mixture of cream cheese and subtle vanilla that makes the cheesecake layer sing, every component plays a key role.
- Refrigerated sugar cookie dough (1 package or 1 1/4 cups homemade): This forms the sweet, buttery base, so choose a quality dough or a well-loved homemade recipe.
- Cream cheese (2 packages, 8 oz each, softened): The star of the cheesecake portion, softened cream cheese ensures a smooth and creamy filling.
- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Adds the perfect amount of sweetness without overpowering the delicate flavors.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): A splash of vanilla adds warmth and depth to the cheesecake layer.
- Large egg (1): Helps bind the cheesecake ingredients together, giving the filling structure.
- All-purpose flour (1 tablespoon): A small amount of flour stabilizes the cheesecake texture for clean slices.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
How to Make Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. This preparation ensures your bars come out easily without sticking.
Step 2: Create the Sugar Cookie Crust
Press the sugar cookie dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan, creating a smooth, compact crust. This layer will bake first, giving you a golden, slightly crisp base that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheesecake topping.
Step 3: Bake the Crust
Bake the crust for about 10 minutes until it starts to turn a light golden brown. This pre-baking step sets the foundation, preventing the crust from becoming soggy under the cheesecake layer.
Step 4: Mix the Cheesecake Filling
While the crust bakes, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together in a large bowl until smooth and creamy. Then add the egg, vanilla extract, flour, and salt, mixing until everything is fully incorporated and the batter is velvety.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake the Bars
Pour the cheesecake mixture evenly over the baked sugar cookie crust. Use a spatula to spread it out smoothly, then return the pan to the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheesecake layer is set and lightly golden on top.
Step 6: Cool and Chill
Let your bars cool for about 10 minutes at room temperature, then place them in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This chilling step is crucial for the cheesecake to firm up so you can slice nice, clean bars.
How to Serve Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Topping your Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars Recipe with fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of caramel sauce elevates both visual appeal and flavor. Whipped cream also pairs beautifully, adding an airy lightness to each bite.
Side Dishes
Serve these bars alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a cup of rich coffee to balance their sweetness perfectly. A fresh fruit salad on the side can offer a refreshing contrast and complement the creamy texture.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the bars into bite-sized squares for party platters or layering them with fruit and whipped cream in individual parfait glasses for a stunning dessert presentation. For festive occasions, sprinkle colored sugar crystals on top before baking, adding a sparkly touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This helps maintain their creamy texture and prevents them from drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze these bars to enjoy later by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or placing them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving for best results, and expect a storage period of up to 3 months.
Reheating
Since these bars are best served chilled, reheating is usually unnecessary. However, if you prefer them slightly warm, allow them to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before enjoying to preserve their luscious texture.
FAQs
Can I use homemade sugar cookie dough for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade sugar cookie dough works beautifully and allows you to customize flavors. Just ensure the dough is spread evenly for a consistent crust.
What if I don’t have cream cheese on hand? Can I substitute it?
Cream cheese is key for the cheesecake texture and flavor, but for alternatives, mascarpone could work in a pinch. Keep in mind that substitutions may change the taste and consistency.
How do I know when the cheesecake layer is done baking?
Look for a set filling with a slight wobble in the center but no wet batter. The edges will be lightly golden, and the cheesecake should feel firm to the touch.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
To make the Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars Recipe gluten-free, use a gluten-free sugar cookie dough and a gluten-free flour substitute in the cheesecake mixture. This keeps the bars safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Is it necessary to chill the bars before cutting?
Chilling is essential. It firms up the cheesecake layer, making it easier to cut clean slices without the filling crumbling or sticking to your knife.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited as I am to try this Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars Recipe. It delivers a fantastic balance of flavors and textures that will keep you coming back for more. Whether you make it for a special occasion or just to brighten your day, these bars truly feel like a little slice of joy baked right at home. Trust me, once you make them, they’ll become one of your all-time favorites.
Print
Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 55 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars combine the buttery, sweet base of sugar cookie dough with a rich, creamy cheesecake topping. Perfectly baked until golden and set, these bars offer a delightful twist on classic cheesecake with the comforting flavor of sugar cookies, ideal for dessert lovers looking for an easy, crowd-pleasing treat.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 package refrigerated sugar cookie dough (or 1 1/4 cups homemade dough)
Cheesecake Filling
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the dessert evenly.
- Prepare Pan: Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make removal easier.
- Form Crust: Press the sugar cookie dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan, creating an even layer that will serve as the crust for the bars.
- Bake Crust: Bake the pressed cookie dough crust for 10 minutes or until it begins to lightly brown, giving it a slightly firm base.
- Mix Cheesecake Filling: While the crust bakes, beat softened cream cheese and granulated sugar in a large bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Add the egg, vanilla extract, all-purpose flour, and salt to the cream cheese mixture. Mix until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the batter is smooth.
- Add Filling to Crust: Once the crust is baked, pour the cheesecake mixture over it and spread evenly to cover the crust completely.
- Bake Cheesecake Bars: Return the pan to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set and lightly golden on top, indicating it is fully cooked.
- Cool and Chill: Let the bars cool for 10 minutes at room temperature, then refrigerate them for at least 2 hours to allow the cheesecake to fully set before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
- Chilling the bars thoroughly improves slicing and flavor development.
- You can add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the crust for an extra warm flavor.
- Substitute with homemade sugar cookie dough for a fresher taste.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
