Oh, you are going to fall head over heels for this Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars Recipe! Imagine the buttery, soft sugar cookie crust as the perfect base for a luscious, creamy cheesecake layer that melts in your mouth with every bite. This dessert effortlessly captures the best of both worlds, combining two beloved treats into one irresistible bar that’s perfect for any occasion, from cozy family dinners to festive celebrations. Whether you’re craving something sweet after dinner or looking for a crowd-pleasing dessert, these bars deliver rich flavor and a beautiful balance of texture that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a key role in creating that tender crust and smooth cheesecake filling. These few staples deliver classic flavor, creamy texture, and just the right touch of sweetness, making this recipe both straightforward and unforgettable.
- Sugar cookie dough (1 roll refrigerated or 2 1/4 cups homemade): Provides a buttery, slightly crisp base that supports the cheesecake layer beautifully.
- All-purpose flour (1/4 cup, if using homemade dough): Helps stabilize the homemade dough for perfect texture.
- Cream cheese (2 packages, softened): The star of the cheesecake layer, delivering rich creaminess and tang.
- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons optional): Sweetens both the creamy filling and offers a light sparkle on top.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and depth of flavor to the cheesecake.
- Large eggs (2): Bind the filling and help achieve that custardy, set texture.
- Sour cream (1/4 cup, optional): Brings extra smoothness and a slight tang to the filling.
- All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Ensures the cheesecake filling sets just right without cracking.
How to Make Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by warming your oven to 350°F (175°C) and preparing an 8×8-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. This prep ensures your bars come out cleanly and look as lovely as they taste.
Step 2: Prepare and Bake the Sugar Cookie Crust
If you’re using store-bought dough, press it evenly into your pan to create the base. For homemade dough, add the small amount of flour as instructed, then spread it out evenly. Bake this crust for 10-12 minutes until it’s lightly golden and set. This stage is crucial—it forms that delicious foundation you’ll build the cheesecake layer on.
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling
While the crust cools a bit, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth for a silky texture. Blend in vanilla, then add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the sour cream and flour until the batter is luscious and velvety, ready to pour over the crust.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour your cheesecake filling evenly onto the slightly cooled crust and spread it gently to the edges. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, watching for that perfect set—the center should jiggle just a touch but not be liquid. This baking dance means you’re creating that dreamy, creamy consistency everyone loves.
Step 5: Cool and Chill
After baking, allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, then pop them into the fridge to chill for at least two hours, or even overnight for the best results. The cooling period is where the bars really come together, firming up to slice cleanly and taste divine.
Step 6: Sugar Sprinkle and Serving
Just before serving, sprinkle the top with a little granulated sugar for a subtle sparkle and extra sweetness. Slice into squares and get ready to delight in the perfect harmony of sugar cookie and cheesecake in every bite.
How to Serve Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Keep it simple and elegant with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted white chocolate. Fresh berries or a spoonful of fruit compote can turn these bars into something spectacular, adding a pop of color and a touch of fresh tartness to balance the richness.
Side Dishes
These bars pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For a festive touch, add a few sprigs of mint or a sprinkle of edible flowers on your plate to make dessert feel like an event.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the bars into bite-sized squares for a party platter or serving them in pretty glass jars layered with whipped cream and berries for an impressive, no-fuss dessert parfait. You can even customize them by adding fun sprinkles before baking or swirl in some jam for an extra wow factor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap your bars tightly and store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keeping them chilled helps maintain their creamy texture and fresh flavor, so they’re just as delicious the next day.
Freezing
If you want to prepare ahead or save extras, these bars freeze wonderfully. Slice them first, place parchment paper between layers, and store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving to restore their creamy texture.
Reheating
While these bars are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, if you prefer them slightly warm, microwave a square for about 10-15 seconds. Avoid overheating to keep that luscious cheesecake layer perfectly creamy.
FAQs
Can I use homemade sugar cookie dough for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade sugar cookie dough works beautifully and lets you control the ingredients and flavor. Just add the additional 1/4 cup flour as mentioned to ensure the crust sets well.
Why do I add flour to the cheesecake filling?
The flour helps stabilize the cheesecake as it bakes, preventing cracks and giving the filling a smooth, creamy texture that slices nicely.
Can I skip the sour cream in the filling?
Yes, sour cream is optional but adds extra creaminess and a subtle tang. If you don’t have it on hand, leaving it out won’t affect the overall success of the recipe.
How can I tell when the bars are done baking?
The edges should look lightly golden and set, while the center will have a slight jiggle but should not be liquid. A toothpick inserted in the middle should come out mostly clean with a few crumbs.
How do I store leftover Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars?
After cooling completely, wrap them well and store in the fridge. Proper refrigeration keeps the bars fresh and maintains their perfect creamy texture for several days.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say this Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars Recipe will become a fast favorite in your dessert rotation. The way the tender sugar cookie base blends with that dreamy cheesecake topping is just unbeatable. Once you try it, you’ll find endless reasons to bake it again—from quick snacks to special occasions. So go ahead, dig in, and watch this treat disappear one delicious bite at a time!
Print
Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 55 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these luscious Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars that combine a buttery sugar cookie crust with a smooth and creamy cheesecake filling. Perfectly baked to golden edges and chilled to set, these bars offer a deliciously sweet treat ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Sugar Cookie Crust
- 1 roll of refrigerated sugar cookie dough (or 2 1/4 cups homemade sugar cookie dough)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (if using homemade dough)
Cheesecake Filling
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Topping
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (optional, for a light sugar sprinkle)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Sugar Cookie Crust: If using store-bought dough, press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. If using homemade dough, mix it with 1/4 cup flour and press it evenly into the pan to form a crust, flattening it with your fingers or the back of a spoon.
- Bake the Crust: Bake the crust for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden and set. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly while preparing the filling.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Mix in vanilla extract. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in sour cream (if using) and 2 tablespoons flour until combined.
- Assemble the Bars: Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the cooled sugar cookie crust, ensuring full coverage.
- Bake: Return the pan to the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The cheesecake should be set with lightly golden edges and a slightly jiggly center. A toothpick inserted should come out mostly clean with a few crumbs.
- Cool: Let the bars cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to fully firm up.
- Top with Sugar: Before serving, sprinkle the top with 2 tablespoons granulated sugar for added sweetness and light sparkle.
- Serve: Slice into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy the perfect blend of soft sugar cookie and creamy cheesecake.
Notes
- Using sour cream is optional but adds extra creaminess and tang to the cheesecake filling.
- For best results, make sure the cream cheese is softened to prevent lumps in the filling.
- You can substitute homemade sugar cookie dough if preferred; just ensure it’s well-mixed with flour to form a sturdy crust.
- Chilling the bars before slicing helps achieve clean cuts and better texture.
- Store leftover bars in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
