Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Imagine the best of two classic treats—soft, buttery sugar cookies, and the creamy, tangy richness of cheesecake—coming together in one deliriously delightful bite. That’s the magic of Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars! Cream cheese and sweet cookie dough unite for a dessert that’s as fun as it is scrumptious, with the perfect amount of sweetness and a playful hint of nostalgia. Whether you make these for a holiday platter, a bake sale, or just to brighten up a regular weeknight, expect these bars to disappear in record time.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t you just love a recipe that calls for simple ingredients, but delivers outrageous flavor and gorgeous results? Each component in Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars has a role to play: the cookie dough brings classic comfort, the cream cheese ensures luscious creaminess, and just a few pantry staples round everything out into dessert perfection.

• Refrigerated sugar cookie dough (16.5 oz package): This gives you a foolproof soft, sweet crust with zero fuss or rolling pins.
• Cream cheese (2 packages, 8 oz each, softened): For the ultra-creamy cheesecake layer, softened cream cheese blends seamlessly.
• Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens and balances the tanginess of the cream cheese, making every bite just right.
• Large egg (1): A must-have for binding the cheesecake filling, so it sets up smooth and slices beautifully.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Rounds out flavors with warmth and a hint of aromatic charm.
• Sprinkles or colored sugar (optional): Adds festive color and crunch—customize depending on your mood or the season!

How to Make Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Take an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish (either size works!) and line it with parchment paper, letting some overhang for easy lifting later. This simple step keeps the bars from sticking and makes clean-up a total breeze.

Step 2: Press in the Sugar Cookie Crust

Open your package of sugar cookie dough and press it evenly into the bottom of your lined baking dish. You want an even layer, so press right into the corners and smooth out any lumps. This forms a sweet, sturdy base for your cheesecake, giving every bite a cookie-on-the-bottom finish.

Step 3: Mix Your Cheesecake Filling

In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until the mixture is ultra-smooth and creamy—no lumps allowed! Once blended, add in your egg and vanilla extract, beating again until everything is fully incorporated. The mix should look thick, glossy, and luscious.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Pour that gorgeous cheesecake filling right over your sugar cookie crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top so it bakes up evenly. Pop the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the center is set but still just a little bit jiggly. The bars will firm up perfectly as they cool.

Step 5: Cool, Chill, and Add a Finale

Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. After that, transfer it to the fridge for at least two hours (or even overnight!). This chill time helps the cheesecake layer set, making the bars easy to slice. Just before serving, add a shower of sprinkles or colored sugar if you’d like—they make these Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars irresistibly festive.

How to Serve Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars

Garnishes

One of my favorite parts about Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars? The creative finishing touches! Classic rainbow sprinkles are a happy addition, but you can really go wild: try sparkling colored sugar for a winter wonderland vibe, or tiny chocolate chips if you’re feeling extra indulgent. Even a dusting of powdered sugar is a simple, pretty finish.

Side Dishes

Since these bars are rich and sweet, balance them out with a bowl of fresh berries, a zippy fruit salad, or a spoonful of tangy Greek yogurt. If you’re making these for a party, a light citrusy punch or mug of herbal tea makes a lovely, refreshing pairing alongside Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars.

Creative Ways to Present

Take your Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars to the next level by slicing them into tiny squares for a colorful dessert platter, drizzling them with white chocolate, or even serving atop a swirl of raspberry sauce for an elegant touch. Want to spark conversation? Stack them in a tower or serve with small dessert forks on individual plates for a café-style dessert experience at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the fridge, where they’ll stay tasty and fresh for up to five days. Keep a sheet of parchment between layers to prevent sticking, and try not to stack anything heavy on top so the bars keep their signature creamy texture.

Freezing

Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars freeze surprisingly well! Once chilled and sliced, wrap bars individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready for a treat, simply let the bars thaw in the fridge overnight, and you’re back in business.

Reheating

No reheating required! These bars are best enjoyed cold, straight from the fridge, for that perfect creamy-meets-cookie experience. If you do prefer them a bit softer, just let them sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I use homemade sugar cookie dough instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! If you’ve got a favorite homemade sugar cookie dough recipe, feel free to use it here. Just press it into the pan as directed, and watch your Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars rise to even greater homemade heights.

What size pan can I use if I don’t have an 8×8 or 9×9?

You can use a similar-sized dish, like a round cake pan, in a pinch. Just be mindful of adjusting the baking time slightly if the bars are thicker or thinner than intended.

How do I know when the cheesecake layer is baked through?

The edges should look set, while the center should still jiggle slightly—think of it like the wobble of gelatin. It will fully firm up in the fridge, so don’t overbake or you’ll lose that irresistible creamy texture.

Can I add flavors or mix-ins to the cheesecake layer?

Yes! Try stirring in finely grated lemon zest, a dash of almond extract, or even mini chocolate chips for a fun twist. Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars are versatile, so don’t be shy about adding your personal touch.

What’s the best way to slice neat bars?

Chill the bars thoroughly, then use a sharp knife cleaned with warm water between cuts. This gives you perfect, bakery-quality squares every time. For extra-decadent results, wipe the knife after each slice to keep the layers clean and even.

Final Thoughts

Making Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars is like giving yourself a double helping of joy—craveable, colorful, and so easy to share. If you need a simple dessert that looks impressive and delights everyone, you’ll want this recipe in your back pocket. I hope you’ll give these a try and watch them become a new classic at your table!

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