Print

Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 82 reviews

Delightful Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars combine a buttery sugar cookie base with a creamy cheesecake layer, topped with crumbled cookie dough for a perfect balance of textures and flavors. These bars are easy to bake and make a delicious dessert for any occasion.

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: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan thoroughly and set it aside to prepare for baking.
  2. Prepare Sugar Cookie Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, beating well to combine.
  3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually incorporate these dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until a uniform cookie dough forms.
  4. Form Cookie Base: Take two-thirds of the sugar cookie dough and press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, making a smooth, consistent layer that will serve as the base.
  5. Make Cheesecake Layer: In another clean bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well until fully combined.
  6. Assemble Layers: Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the sugar cookie base in the pan, ensuring a uniform layer for consistent baking.
  7. Top with Remaining Cookie Dough: Crumble the remaining one-third of the sugar cookie dough over the cheesecake layer, distributing it evenly for a crumbly topping.
  8. Bake the Bars: Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
  9. Cool and Serve: Remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool completely before cutting into bars to ensure clean slices and optimal texture.

Notes

  • Ensure the cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature for easier mixing and smoother texture.
  • Do not overbake; the center should be set but still slightly soft to maintain cheesecake creaminess.
  • For easier slicing, refrigerate the bars after cooling to firm up.
  • Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep fresh for up to 5 days.
  • Optional: sprinkle a little cinnamon or add chocolate chips to the cookie dough for a flavor twist.