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Sugar Cookie Cream Cheese Bars

 

This recipe is simple and comes together quickly, whether you use store-bought dough or make your own sugar cookie base.

Ingredients

For the sugar cookie base:

  • 1 package sugar cookie dough (store-bought or homemade)
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon almond extract (optional, but adds amazing flavor)

For the cream cheese filling:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 large egg

For the glaze and topping:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Colored sugar sprinkles or crushed cookies (optional)

Instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Sugar Cookie Base

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
  • If using store-bought dough, mix it with vanilla extract and almond extract for extra flavor.
  • Divide the dough into two portions—one for the bottom layer and one for the top.

2. Press & Pre-Bake the Bottom Layer

  • Press half of the sugar cookie dough evenly into the prepared baking dish.
  • Bake for 8 minutes—this helps create a sturdy base for the filling.

3. Make the Cream Cheese Filling

  • In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, vanilla, and egg until smooth.

4. Layer & Bake

  • Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the partially baked cookie base.
  • Roll out the remaining cookie dough and gently place it over the top (it’s okay if it doesn’t cover everything completely—it will spread as it bakes).
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and set.

5. Cool & Glaze

  • Let the bars cool completely before adding the glaze.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  • Drizzle the glaze over the bars and top with colored sugar or sprinkles for a fun finish.

6. Slice & Enjoy

  • Once the glaze is set, slice into squares or bars and serve!

Notes

Pro Tips for the Best Sugar Cookie Cream Cheese Bars

🔥 Use room-temperature cream cheese – This ensures a smooth, lump-free filling.

🍪 Pre-baking the bottom layer is key – It helps the bars hold their shape and prevents a soggy base.

🌡 Let them cool before slicing – The bars firm up as they cool, making them easier to cut cleanly.

  • Author: niold.com