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Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars Recipe

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4.6 from 69 reviews

Delight in these luscious Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars, featuring a buttery sugar cookie base layered with smooth, creamy cheesecake and topped with delightful cookie crumbles. Perfect for dessert lovers looking for a decadent treat that combines the best of both worlds in every bite.

Ingredients

Sugar Cookie Layer

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Cheesecake Layer

  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan thoroughly and set it aside to ensure the bars will not stick after baking.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar for the sugar cookie layer until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes.
  3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time along with the vanilla extract, mixing well after each addition to incorporate fully.
  4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well blended to ensure even distribution.
  5. Mix Dry Ingredients with Wet: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the creamed butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined to form a cookie dough.
  6. Form Sugar Cookie Base: Take about two-thirds of the cookie dough and press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared 9×13-inch baking pan to create a uniform base layer.
  7. Prepare Cheesecake Filling: In another clean bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Then add the egg and vanilla extract, beating again until fully incorporated and smooth.
  8. Layer Cheesecake Mixture: Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the pressed sugar cookie base, taking care to distribute it uniformly for an even layer.
  9. Add Remaining Cookie Dough: Crumble the remaining one-third sugar cookie dough over the top of the cheesecake layer, covering as much as possible for a textured topping.
  10. Bake the Bars: Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown and the cheesecake layer is set in the center (it should no longer jiggle).
  11. Cool and Serve: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely on a wire rack before cutting into squares to serve. This cooling step ensures clean cuts and the right texture.

Notes

  • Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to achieve a smooth cheesecake layer without lumps.
  • Do not overmix the dough once the flour is added to avoid a tough texture.
  • Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing for cleaner edges.
  • These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • For a more festive touch, sprinkle chocolate chips or chopped nuts on top before baking.