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Sugar Cookie Cream Cheese Bars

Sugar Cookie Cream Cheese Bars
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Sugar Cookie Cream Cheese Bars are a rich and creamy dessert combining a buttery, soft sugar cookie crust with a luscious, tangy cream cheese layer. Easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, these bars offer a nostalgic yet fresh flavor experience that melts in your mouth.

Ingredients

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Cookie Crust

  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Cream Cheese Filling

  • 8 oz (1 package) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cookie crust: Start by creaming the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Mix in the egg and vanilla extract thoroughly. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt, then gradually incorporate these dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Press the resulting dough evenly into a greased or parchment-lined 8×8 or 9×9 inch baking pan to form the base.
  2. Make the cream cheese filling: In a clean bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar and an egg until creamy and smooth. Add vanilla extract and continue mixing until you achieve a silky consistency that will spread easily over the cookie crust.
  3. Layer and bake: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the sugar cookie crust, covering edge to edge. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely before proceeding.
  4. Chill and serve: Refrigerate the bars for at least one hour to let the flavors meld and the texture firm up. Cut into squares or rectangles and serve chilled for the best taste and texture.

Notes

  • Use room temperature ingredients for smoother mixing and creamier filling.
  • Don’t overmix dough to keep the cookie base soft and tender.
  • Line your pan with parchment paper to simplify removal and clean-up.
  • Chill bars before slicing to ensure clean cuts and prevent smearing.
  • Experiment with toppings like sprinkles, cinnamon sugar, or chopped nuts before baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: sugar cookie bars, cream cheese dessert, easy dessert bars, cream cheese bars, sugar cookie recipe, holiday dessert

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