Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars are the perfect combination of a sugar cookie crust, a rich cheesecake filling, and a touch of crème brûlée flavor. With a smooth, velvety filling and toffee bits melted on top, these bars are decadently sweet and make a perfect make-ahead dessert for parties or gatherings.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Sugar Cookie Crust:

• 1 (17.5 ounce) package sugar cookie mix

• 1 (3.5 ounce) box instant French vanilla pudding mix

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1 large egg

• 2 tablespoons light brown sugar

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 2 (8-ounce) blocks cream cheese, at room temperature

• 1 large egg

• 3 large egg yolks (discard whites or save for another use)

• ½ cup sour cream

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• ½ cup toffee bits

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray.

2. Make the Sugar Cookie Crust:
   In a large bowl, combine the sugar cookie mix, vanilla pudding mix, melted butter, egg, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until a thick dough forms. Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan.

3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
   In a separate bowl, combine the cream cheese, egg, egg yolks, sour cream, sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and well combined. Pour the filling over the prepared crust and spread it evenly.

4. Bake the Bars:
   Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is set and not jiggly. Check for doneness after 30 minutes, as baking time may vary slightly. The filling should be firm but not overly baked.

5. Add the Topping:
   Immediately after removing the bars from the oven, sprinkle the toffee bits evenly over the top. Let the bars cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

6. Chill the Bars:
   Cover the pan and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until fully chilled before slicing and serving.

Nutrients (per serving)

• Calories: 254 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 25g

• Protein: 4g

• Fat: 15g

  • Saturated Fat: 7g

  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 7g

• Cholesterol: 81mg

• Sodium: 179mg

• Sugar: 19g

The Sugar Cookie Crust: A Sweet and Simple Base

The base of these cheesecake bars is made from a sugar cookie dough that is easy to prepare and full of sweetness. Using a pre-made sugar cookie mix along with a few simple ingredients like vanilla pudding mix, melted butter, and brown sugar, this crust provides a sturdy and flavorful foundation for the cheesecake filling. The addition of the vanilla pudding mix gives the crust a slightly chewy texture, similar to the inside of a sugar cookie, making it a delightful contrast to the rich and creamy cheesecake layer on top.

The sugar cookie crust is pressed evenly into the pan, creating a base that holds up perfectly under the weight of the cheesecake filling. It adds a touch of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the tartness of the cream cheese, making each bite even more satisfying.

The Cheesecake Filling: Creamy and Velvety

The cheesecake filling is where the magic happens. Made from cream cheese, egg yolks, sour cream, and a touch of sugar and vanilla, this filling is smooth, velvety, and rich in flavor. The egg yolks give it a luxurious texture, while the sour cream adds a tangy note that balances the sweetness of the sugar and vanilla. This creates a perfectly creamy, thick filling that holds its shape when sliced, but is soft and luscious when eaten.

The key to the cheesecake filling is ensuring that it is baked just until set. Overbaking can cause the filling to become dry or cracked, so it’s important to check for doneness after about 30 minutes to avoid overcooking. The filling should be firm to the touch but still slightly soft in the center when done. Once baked, it’s topped with melted toffee bits for added sweetness and texture.

Topping: Toffee Bits for a Sweet Crunch

The final touch to these cheesecake bars is the sprinkling of toffee bits on top. After baking, the toffee bits are evenly distributed over the surface of the cheesecake while it’s still hot, allowing them to melt and caramelize slightly. This gives the bars a nice crunch and an extra layer of flavor that complements the creamy filling. The toffee bits also add a touch of sweetness that enhances the overall dessert, making each bite a delightful combination of smooth, chewy, and crunchy textures.

For even more flavor, you can experiment with different types of toffee or caramel toppings, or even a sprinkle of sea salt for a sweet-and-salty twist.

Chill and Set: The Secret to Perfect Bars

Once the bars are out of the oven and the toffee bits have melted, it’s crucial to allow them to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This allows the filling to firm up and ensures that the toffee topping sets properly. Afterward, refrigerate the bars for at least 3 hours to fully chill. Chilling helps the bars set and ensures that they hold their shape when cut into squares, making them easier to serve and eat.

If you’re making these ahead of time, you can refrigerate them overnight, allowing the flavors to meld together for an even richer taste when served.

Serving Suggestions: Perfect for Any Occasion

Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars are perfect for a variety of occasions. Their sweet and creamy flavor makes them ideal for parties, special dinners, or holiday gatherings. They also work well as an elegant dessert for a potluck or a family gathering, as they can be easily sliced into individual servings and served without the need for additional plating.

For an extra touch, serve these bars with a dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or even some fresh berries to add a pop of color and freshness. The possibilities for presentation are endless, and these bars can easily be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

Nutritional Information: Indulgent Yet Satisfying

Each serving of Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars contains approximately 254 calories. The bars are rich, with 15g of fat, including 7g of saturated fat, so they are an indulgent treat to enjoy in moderation. With 19g of sugar per serving, they’re definitely on the sweeter side, but the balance of flavors ensures that each bite feels just right.

The bars provide a small amount of protein (4g per serving) and 5.6g of dietary fiber, which helps balance out the sweetness. The dessert also contains 81mg of cholesterol, 179mg of sodium, and 1mg of iron. While this treat is rich, it offers a satisfying bite that can be enjoyed as part of a well-balanced meal when served with a lighter main course or alongside fruit for some added freshness.

Conclusion: A Decadent Make-Ahead Dessert

Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars are the perfect dessert for anyone who loves the combination of rich, creamy cheesecake and the delightful crunch of toffee. Their simple yet delicious flavor profile, with a sugar cookie crust, velvety filling, and sweet toffee topping, makes them a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving a decadent treat, these bars are sure to satisfy. Plus, they’re easy to make ahead, allowing you to enjoy the sweet rewards without the stress of last-minute preparation.