Get ready to experience a mouthwatering treat that combines the classic comfort of sugar cookies with the rich, creamy goodness of cream cheese! These irresistible bars are about to become your new obsession - a dessert so delightful, you'll want to hide the entire batch just for yourself. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or those moments when you need a little sweet pick-me-up, these Cream Cheese Sugar Cookie Bars are the ultimate crowd-pleaser that will have everyone begging for your secret recipe.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 16 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over the sides for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, cream cheese, and granulated sugar using an electric mixer. Beat on medium-high speed for 3-4 minutes until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and pale in color.
- Add the vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure even distribution of leavening agents.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.
- If using sprinkles, gently fold them into the batter using a spatula, distributing them evenly throughout.
- Transfer the batter to the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon. Smooth the top to ensure an even layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This will take approximately 1 hour.
- Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Cut into 16 equal squares using a sharp knife.
- Optional: Dust with powdered sugar or add additional sprinkles on top for decoration before serving.
Tips
- Room Temperature is Key: Ensure your butter and cream cheese are truly softened but not melted. This creates the perfect creamy texture and helps ingredients blend smoothly.
- Don't Overmix: Mix your batter just until ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to tough, dense bars instead of soft, tender ones.
- Use Parchment Paper: The parchment paper overhang makes removing and cutting the bars a breeze, ensuring clean, perfect squares every time.
- Check for Doneness: Look for lightly golden edges and use the toothpick test - it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to help them set and make cutting easier.
- Get Creative with Toppings: While sprinkles are optional, they add a fun, festive touch. You can also experiment with different colored sprinkles or a light dusting of powdered sugar.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 45mg
