Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars | Ultimate Treat Combo

Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars combine the crisp sweetness of sugar cookies with the creamy richness of cheesecake. This indulgent hybrid dessert is perfect for those who love both and can’t choose between them. Ideal for parties, family gatherings, or as a special treat, these bars are sure to impress.

Equipment:

• Oven
• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Spatula

Ingredients:

For the Sugar Cookie Layer:

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

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Topping:

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
2. Make the Sugar Cookie Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1 cup sugar until light and fluffy.
   • Beat in 2 eggs and 1 tsp vanilla extract until well combined.
   • Gradually add flour, baking powder, and salt, mixing until just combined.
   • Press half of the sugar cookie dough into the bottom of the prepared pan, forming a flat and even layer.
3. Prepare the Cheesecake Mixture:
   • In another bowl, use an electric mixer to blend the cream cheese and 1/2 cup sugar until smooth.
   • Add 2 eggs and 1 tsp vanilla extract, and continue mixing until smooth and creamy.
   • Pour this cheesecake mixture over the sugar cookie layer in the pan, spreading evenly.
4. Add the Remaining Cookie Dough:
   • Crumble the remaining sugar cookie dough over the cheesecake layer.
5. Mix the Topping and Bake:
   • In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup sugar and ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture over the top of the dough crumbles.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the top is lightly golden and the cheesecake layer is set.
6. Cool and Slice:
   • Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan set on a wire rack.
   • Once cooled, lift out using the overhanging parchment paper and slice into bars.

Tips:

• Ensure all ingredients, especially cream cheese and butter, are at room temperature to ensure a smooth and even mixture.
• For a festive twist, mix in colored sprinkles into the top cookie layer before baking.
• These bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for longer storage.

Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars are the perfect marriage of two beloved desserts, offering the best of both worlds. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just indulging your sweet tooth, these bars provide a rich, satisfying treat that’s sure to delight. Enjoy the creamy, crunchy textures and sweet, spiced flavors of this ultimate treat combo.