Description
These Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars are the perfect no-bake dessert for the holiday season! They combine the delicious flavors of sugar cookies and creamy cheesecake into an easy-to-make treat that everyone will love. The buttery sugar cookie crust, the smooth and fluffy cheesecake filling loaded with sugar cookie pieces, and the festive red and green sprinkles make these bars a delightful addition to any Christmas celebration. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or just a special family treat, these cheesecake bars are sure to be a hit. Best of all, they require no baking, making them a convenient and stress-free option for busy holiday schedules.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups sugar cookie crumbs (about 16 cookies, crushed)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup sugar cookie pieces, chopped
- Red and green sprinkles for decoration
Preparation:
Step 1: Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the sugar cookie crumbs and melted butter. Mix well until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
Step 2: Press the Crust: Press the sugar cookie crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×9 inch baking dish. Ensure the crust is compact and even.
Step 3: Chill the Crust: Place the baking dish in the refrigerator and chill for 15 minutes to allow the crust to firm up.
Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. This may take a few minutes, so be patient and ensure there are no lumps.
Step 5: Add Sweeteners and Vanilla: Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the cream cheese. Continue to beat until everything is fully combined, and the mixture is smooth.
Step 6: Whip the Heavy Cream: In a separate bowl, pour in the heavy whipping cream and add the granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer to whip the cream until stiff peaks form. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture.
Step 7: Combine the Mixtures: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. Be careful not to overmix; fold until just combined to keep the filling light and fluffy.
Step 8: Add Cookie Pieces: Fold in the chopped sugar cookie pieces into the cheesecake mixture. This adds a delightful crunch and enhances the sugar cookie flavor.
Step 9: Assemble the Bars: Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the chilled sugar cookie crust in the baking dish.
Step 10: Decorate: Decorate the top of the cheesecake bars generously with red and green sprinkles to give them a festive Christmas look.
Step 11: Chill: Refrigerate the bars for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, until they are firm. This step is essential for the bars to set properly.
Step 12: Serve: Once the bars are firm, remove them from the refrigerator. Cut them into squares and serve chilled.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat that combines the best of both worlds: the comforting flavor of sugar cookies and the creamy decadence of cheesecake. The no-bake aspect makes it incredibly convenient, especially during the busy holiday season. The bars are easy to customize with your favorite sprinkles and cookie types, making them a versatile dessert for any occasion. The combination of textures, from the crunchy crust to the smooth filling, creates a satisfying bite that’s hard to resist.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.
- Cut into small squares for easy handling at parties.
- Pair with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee.
- Garnish with extra sprinkles or a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.
Tips:
- For cleaner cutting, dip the knife in hot water and wipe dry between slices. This helps to prevent the bars from sticking to the knife.
- Allow the bars to chill overnight for the best texture and easier slicing.
- Use high-quality cream cheese for the smoothest and creamiest filling.
- If you don’t have sugar cookies on hand, you can use graham crackers or other cookies for the crust.
- Get creative with your decorations! Use different colors and shapes of sprinkles to match your holiday theme.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (includes chilling time)
Nutrition Information:
- Calories: 350 kcal (per serving)
- Protein: 4g (estimated)
- Sodium: 150mg (estimated)
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.
Conclusion
These no-bake Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars are a fantastic addition to your holiday dessert repertoire. They are easy to make, require no baking, and are sure to impress your family and friends. The combination of flavors and textures makes them an irresistible treat that embodies the spirit of the holiday season. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the smiles it brings!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?
A: Yes, you can substitute sugar cookies with graham crackers, gingerbread cookies, or any other cookie you prefer for the crust. The texture and flavor will vary slightly, but it’s a great way to customize the recipe to your taste.
Q2: How long do the cheesecake bars need to chill in the refrigerator?
A: The bars should chill for at least 4 hours, but it’s best to chill them overnight. This allows the cheesecake filling to set properly, resulting in a firmer texture and easier slicing.
Q3: Can I freeze these cheesecake bars?
A: Yes, these bars can be frozen. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Q4: What can I use if I don’t have heavy whipping cream?
A: While heavy whipping cream is recommended for the best texture, you can use a stabilized whipped topping as a substitute. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture may be slightly different.
Q5: Can I make this recipe in a different size pan?
A: Yes, you can adjust the recipe for a larger or smaller pan. If using a larger pan, the bars will be thinner, and you may need to adjust the chilling time. If using a smaller pan, the bars will be thicker, and you may need to increase the chilling time.
I hope you enjoy this recipe! Let me know if you have any other requests.
