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Funfetti Cheesecake Sugar Cookie Bars: Your Ultimate Guide to a Festive Dessert

Prepare to elevate your dessert game with a recipe that brings together two beloved classics: the comforting chewiness of sugar cookies and the rich, creamy indulgence of cheesecake. These Funfetti Cheesecake Sugar Cookie Bars are more than just a treat; they’re a celebration in every bite. Imagine a soft, buttery sugar cookie crust, a luscious funfetti-speckled cheesecake filling, and a delightful crumble of sugar cookie on top. This harmonious blend creates an irresistible bar dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual Sunday afternoons to vibrant birthday parties or any moment craving a touch of joy.

A Sweet Prelude: Gratitude and Celebrations

Before we dive into the delightful details of this recipe, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all of you who shared such wonderful comments on my recent coffee cake post! Your support and enthusiasm truly brighten my day. I’m also thrilled to share that our daughter’s dance recital was an absolute success – she was amazing, and everything went perfectly. I’ll be sharing more about that special day and some precious photos in a separate post very soon. Now, let’s turn our attention to the star of today’s blog: these incredible bars.

Why These Funfetti Cheesecake Sugar Cookie Bars Will Become Your New Favorite

These bars are a truly special creation, representing a new, exciting evolution of my beloved classic sugar cookie recipe. By seamlessly incorporating a sweet and creamy cheesecake filling between layers of soft, tender sugar cookie, we’ve crafted a dessert that stands out for its unique texture and incredible flavor. The vibrant funfetti sprinkles, while technically optional, come highly recommended. They don’t just add a beautiful burst of color, making these bars ideal for birthdays, holidays, or any celebratory gathering; they also contribute a touch of whimsical charm that instantly brightens any day. The combination of chewy cookie and smooth cheesecake is simply divine, promising an experience that will leave everyone asking for more.

The Undeniable Magic of Our Signature Sugar Cookie Dough

My obsession with this particular sugar cookie dough is well-founded. It’s not only incredibly simple to prepare but consistently bakes to perfection, yielding a wonderfully soft, tender, and melt-in-your-mouth texture every single time. Transforming this versatile dough into a bar dessert was an obvious next step, and what better companion could there be than a rich, velvety cheesecake? As a self-proclaimed cheesecake enthusiast, I eagerly anticipated the creation of these bars, and I’m thrilled to report they truly exceeded all expectations. The cheesecake filling boasts an exquisite creaminess that perfectly complements the delightful chewiness of both the sugar cookie crust and its crumbled topping. It’s a match made in dessert heaven!

Crafting the Perfect Funfetti Cheesecake Sugar Cookie Bars: A Step-by-Step Guide

The process of bringing these delightful bars to life is surprisingly straightforward, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels. It all begins with our tried-and-true sugar cookie dough recipe. Roughly three-quarters of this versatile dough is gently pressed into the bottom of an 8-inch square pan, forming the foundational crust. This layer will provide the satisfying base for our rich filling.

Next, the luscious cheesecake filling is prepared. A crucial tip here: avoid over-beating the mixture once the egg has been added, as this can incorporate too much air and potentially affect the final smooth texture of the cheesecake. This creamy filling is then carefully poured over the cookie crust, spreading it gently to ensure an even layer. For that signature festive appeal, a generous scattering of funfetti sprinkles is added over the cheesecake. Finally, the remaining one-quarter of the cookie dough is crumbled by hand and evenly distributed over the cheesecake layer, creating a tempting cookie topping. For an extra pop of color and joy, don’t hesitate to add even more funfetti sprinkles on top before baking.

These bars are designed to be wonderfully thick and satisfying. If baked just right, the center pieces will emerge with an irresistible ooey-gooey tenderness that makes them utterly delicious and truly decadent. For those who prefer a slightly thinner bar, you can certainly opt to bake them in a 13″ x 9″ pan. However, be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly to prevent overbaking, as thinner bars will cook faster. Keep in mind that a larger pan will result in bars approximately half the original height, though they will still be equally flavorful and enjoyable.

A Treat for Any Time of Day (Yes, Even Breakfast!)

I sincerely hope you’ll seize the opportunity to bake these incredible bars. They make a perfect treat for a relaxed Sunday afternoon, offering a sweet escape from the everyday. And if you’re anything like me, you might even find yourself enjoying one for a Monday morning breakfast – a surprisingly delightful way to start the week with a smile. I wholeheartedly approve! These bars are not just dessert; they’re a mood booster, a delightful indulgence that brings joy with every single bite, no matter the hour.

Recipe: Funfetti Cheesecake Sugar Cookie Bars

Author: Anna

Funfetti Cheesecake Sugar Cookie Bars – sweet and delicious bars with funfetti cheesecake filling and sugar cookie crust and topping! Your new favorite bar dessert!

Prep Time: 15 mins

Cook Time: 25 mins

Total Time: 40 mins

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Servings: 12 bars

Calories: 306 kcal per bar

Ingredients

For the Sugar Cookie Dough:

½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
2 tsp vanilla extract
1.75 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp baking powder
⅛ tsp salt
¼ cup funfetti sprinkles (for mixing into dough)

For the Cheesecake Filling:

8 oz brick style cream cheese, softened
1 large egg, slightly beaten
½ cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
¼ cup funfetti sprinkles (for adding to filling layer)

For Topping (Optional):

1 tablespoon additional funfetti sprinkles

Instructions

To Make the Dough:

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set this dry ingredient mixture aside.
In a separate large mixing bowl (or the bowl of a stand mixer), cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 2 minutes on medium speed.
Add the large egg and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix well until all ingredients are fully combined and smooth.
Gradually add the reserved dry ingredients (flour mixture) to the wet ingredients. Mix the dough only until the flour is just incorporated. It’s important not to overmix the dough, as this can lead to tough bars.
Gently fold in the ¼ cup of funfetti sprinkles into the cookie dough until they are evenly distributed.
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. For best results and easier handling, chilling overnight is highly recommended. This step helps the dough firm up and prevents excessive spreading during baking.

To Make the Cheesecake Filling:

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened brick style cream cheese until it is completely smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the cream cheese. Beat well until thoroughly combined and the mixture is smooth.
Finally, add the slightly beaten large egg to the cream cheese mixture. Mix on medium speed *just until combined*. It is crucial to avoid overmixing once the egg is added, as this can incorporate too much air and lead to cracks in the cheesecake as it bakes and cools.

Assembling and Baking:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang on the sides. This parchment paper sling will make it incredibly easy to lift the cooled bars out of the pan later.
Take the chilled cookie dough from the refrigerator. Press approximately three-quarters (¾) of the cookie dough evenly onto the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust. Ensure it’s a relatively even layer.
Carefully pour the prepared cheesecake filling over the cookie crust, spreading it gently with a spatula to reach all edges of the pan.
Sprinkle ¼ cup of funfetti sprinkles evenly over the cheesecake filling for a vibrant, celebratory touch.
With your hands, crumble the remaining one-quarter (¼) of the cookie dough over the cheesecake filling. Try to distribute the crumbles as evenly as possible to create a delicious, textured topping.
For an extra festive appearance, sprinkle an additional 1 tablespoon of funfetti over the crumbled cookie topping.
Bake the bars for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the edges of the cookie topping are golden brown and the cheesecake center is mostly set with a slight jiggle in the very middle. Be careful not to overbake.
Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely on a wire rack in the pan. The center of the bars may sink slightly as they cool, which is perfectly normal.
Once completely cooled (this is a crucial step for clean cuts, you can even chill them in the fridge for an hour), use the parchment paper overhang to lift the entire slab of bars out of the pan. Cut them into desired squares and serve.
Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness and texture.

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Nutrition Information

Based on 12 servings, each bar contains approximately:

Calories: 306 kcal
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 68mg
Sodium: 218mg
Potassium: 76mg
Sugar: 23g
Vitamin A: 530IU
Calcium: 38mg
Iron: 1.1mg

Tried this recipe? We’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment and rating below!

Tips for Baking the Best Funfetti Cheesecake Sugar Cookie Bars

Room Temperature is Key: Ensure your butter and cream cheese are truly softened to room temperature. This is absolutely critical for achieving a smooth, lump-free cheesecake filling and a well-incorporated, tender cookie dough. Cold ingredients will result in a lumpy mixture and a tougher dough.
Don’t Overmix the Dough: Once you add the dry ingredients to the wet, mix just until combined. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour too much, leading to tough cookies and, consequently, dense, chewy bars rather than soft ones.
Chill the Dough Properly: This step is non-negotiable. Chilling the dough helps solidify the butter, preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking. This results in a better, more stable texture for your crust and topping, helping to maintain the bar’s structure. It also makes the dough much easier to handle and press into the pan.
Be Gentle with the Cheesecake Filling: When adding the egg to the cheesecake filling, mix only until it’s just combined. Overbeating can incorporate too much air into the mixture, which can cause the cheesecake to puff up significantly during baking and then crack as it cools.
Parchment Paper is Your Best Friend: Lining the baking pan with parchment paper (especially with an overhang on the sides) is a game-changer. It makes lifting the cooled bars out of the pan incredibly easy, ensuring clean cuts and a beautiful presentation without sticking.
Monitor for Doneness: The bars are done when the edges of the cookie topping are golden brown and the center of the cheesecake is mostly set with a slight, gentle jiggle in the very middle. Don’t wait until the center is completely firm, as the cheesecake will continue to set as it cools, and overbaking can lead to dryness or cracking.
Cool Completely with Patience: Patience truly is a virtue here! Allow the bars to cool fully in the pan on a wire rack before attempting to slice them. This prevents crumbling and ensures neat, defined squares. For even cleaner cuts, consider chilling the cooled bars in the refrigerator for an hour or two before slicing.
Customize Your Sprinkles: While funfetti is classic and cheerful, feel free to use sprinkles appropriate for other holidays or themes – red and green for Christmas, pastels for Easter, or even sprinkles matching your favorite sports team’s colors for a custom touch!

Creative Variations for Your Cheesecake Cookie Bars

While the classic Funfetti Cheesecake Sugar Cookie Bars are perfect as is, don’t hesitate to get creative and experiment with these delicious variations:

Citrus Burst: For a bright and refreshing twist, add 1-2 teaspoons of finely grated lemon or orange zest to the cheesecake filling. The citrus complements the sweetness beautifully.
Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Swap out the funfetti sprinkles for mini chocolate chips in both the cookie dough and as a sprinkle on top. You could even add a decadent drizzle of melted chocolate over the cooled bars for an extra treat.
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate finely chopped nuts like pecans, walnuts, or almonds into the sugar cookie dough for added flavor and a delightful textural crunch.
Seasonal Flavors: Adapt these bars for different seasons. For autumn, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cookie dough, or swirl a tablespoon of pumpkin puree into the cheesecake filling for a taste of fall.
Different Cookie Base: While sugar cookie dough is a fantastic foundation, you could experiment with other pre-made cookie doughs, such as chocolate chip, peanut butter, or even snickerdoodle, for a unique flavor profile. Remember to adjust baking times as needed.

Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions

These Funfetti Cheesecake Sugar Cookie Bars are not only delicious but also convenient to prepare and store:

Storage: Due to the creamy cheesecake filling, these bars must be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep fresh and delicious for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Dough: You can prepare the sugar cookie dough in advance and freeze it for future baking sessions. Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw the dough overnight in the refrigerator before proceeding with the recipe.
Freezing Baked Bars: Once the bars are completely cooled and sliced into individual servings, you can freeze them for longer storage. Place the cut bars in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to 1-2 months. To serve, thaw individual bars in the refrigerator for a few hours or at room temperature for about 30-60 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Funfetti Cheesecake Sugar Cookie Bars

Can I use a different size pan for this recipe?: Yes, you can use a 13″ x 9″ pan for thinner bars. If you opt for a larger pan, be sure to reduce the baking time slightly, as thinner bars will bake faster. Start checking for doneness around 20-22 minutes.
Why do I need to chill the cookie dough?: Chilling the dough is an important step. It helps solidify the butter in the dough, which prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking. This results in a better, more stable texture for your crust and topping, helping to maintain the bar’s overall structure. It also makes the dough much easier to handle and press evenly into the pan.
My cheesecake filling cracked. What went wrong?: Cheesecakes can crack for a few common reasons: overbaking, overmixing the ingredients (especially after adding the egg), or a drastic temperature change during cooling. To prevent cracks, ensure your cream cheese and egg are at room temperature, mix only until just combined after adding the egg, and allow the bars to cool gradually in the pan before refrigerating.
Can I make these gluten-free?: While this specific recipe has not been tested with gluten-free flour, you could try substituting the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend that is designed for cookies and cakes. Please note that results may vary slightly in texture and consistency.
What kind of sprinkles should I use for Funfetti?: For the best visual appeal and classic “funfetti” look, I recommend using jimmie sprinkles (the long, cylindrical ones) or confetti sprinkles (the flat, disc-shaped ones). These tend to hold their shape and color well during baking. It’s best to avoid nonpareils, as their colors can sometimes bleed into the dough, especially if overmixed or if the dough is very wet.

Conclusion: Your Next Favorite Dessert Awaits!

These Funfetti Cheesecake Sugar Cookie Bars are truly more than just a recipe; they’re an experience waiting to be savored. They masterfully combine the best of both worlds – the heartwarming simplicity and chewiness of a sugar cookie with the luxurious creaminess and indulgence of a cheesecake – all wrapped up in a dazzling, sprinkle-filled package. Whether you’re baking for a big birthday celebration, a festive holiday gathering, or simply to add a much-needed splash of joy to an ordinary day, these bars are guaranteed to bring smiles and delight to everyone who tries them. Their delightful texture, rich flavor, and cheerful appearance make them an instant crowd-pleaser and a truly memorable dessert that you’ll want to make again and again. Don’t hesitate to whip up a batch soon and discover your new favorite bar dessert!

Enjoy, sweet friends! Have a wonderful day filled with joyous moments and, of course, delicious treats.

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Explore More Delightful Cookie Recipes:

If you loved creating and enjoying these Funfetti Cheesecake Sugar Cookie Bars, you might also enjoy these related recipes from my collection:

Funfetti Birthday Cake Sugar Cookies: Dive into the original inspiration for these bars with these classic, festive cookies packed with birthday joy!

White Chocolate Coconut Sugar Cookies: For a delightful tropical twist, try these chewy sugar cookies infused with rich white chocolate and sweet coconut. A unique flavor profile that’s simply irresistible!