When it comes to the holiday season, one of the best parts is undoubtedly the food—especially the desserts. Every year, my family and I gather around the kitchen to whip up something sweet, festive, and irresistibly good. Last year, I stumbled across a recipe for Christmas Cheesecake Bars, and let me tell you—they were an absolute hit. These bars quickly became the centerpiece of our dessert table, and I’ve been dying to share the recipe (and a few tips) with you.
Not only do these cheesecake bars bring together the nostalgic flavors of Pillsbury Christmas cookies, but they also add a creamy, luscious twist that’s hard to resist. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into everything you need to know about making this holiday dessert!
Why Christmas Cheesecake Bars Are a Must-Try
First, let’s talk about what makes these bars so special. Picture this: a chewy, buttery sugar cookie crust that’s topped with a no-bake cheesecake layer bursting with creaminess. Add a sprinkle of holiday magic in the form of festive sprinkles and a dollop of whipped cream, and you’ve got a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
But what really sets these cheesecake bars apart is how simple they are to make. You don’t need to be a professional baker or own any fancy equipment. With just a few ingredients (many of which you probably already have in your pantry) and a little patience, you can create a dessert that will wow your guests.
My Personal Experience Making Christmas Cheesecake Bars
I’ll admit, I was initially skeptical about using pre-packaged cookie dough for the crust. But when I bit into that first bar, I was hooked. The Pillsbury Christmas tree cookies brought back memories of decorating cookies with my siblings, while the cheesecake layer added a creamy sophistication that felt almost gourmet.
One tip I learned the hard way? Let the crust cool completely before adding the cheesecake layer. The first time I made these, I rushed the process, and the cheesecake mixture didn’t set quite right. Lesson learned: patience is key!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to recreate these delightful bars:
- 2 packages of Pillsbury Christmas Sugar Cookies: These cookies are the heart and soul of the recipe. Feel free to use any holiday design you love!
- 1 1/4 cups heavy whipping cream: This is what makes the cheesecake layer so light and airy.
- 24 ounces cream cheese, softened: Pro tip: leave your cream cheese out for about an hour before using it. It blends much more smoothly.
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup sour cream: This adds a subtle tanginess that balances the sweetness beautifully.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons holiday sprinkles: Optional, but who doesn’t love a bit of sparkle?
- For the topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Sugar Cookie Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 baking dish with parchment paper. Take one pack of the cookie dough and press it into the bottom of the pan. Make sure it’s evenly spread out to form the crust. Bake for 12 minutes and let it cool completely.
2. Bake the Second Batch of Cookies
While your crust is cooling, bake the second pack of cookies according to the package instructions. These will be used as toppings later, so try not to eat them all in the meantime!
3. Make the Cheesecake Layer
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, granulated sugar, sour cream, and vanilla until smooth. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, being careful not to deflate the air. Stir in the sprinkles.
4. Assemble and Chill
Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled cookie crust and spread it out evenly. Cover the pan and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or freeze for 2 hours if you’re in a hurry).
5. Add the Toppings
Whip up the topping by beating heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Pipe swirls onto the cheesecake bars and top each with a baked cookie.
6. Slice and Serve
Carefully slice the bars into nine squares and serve. Trust me, they’ll disappear fast!
Tips for Success
- Don’t Skip the Chill Time: The cheesecake layer needs time to set properly. Be patient—you’ll be glad you waited.
- Customize Your Design: Pillsbury offers a variety of holiday-themed cookies. Try using snowmen, reindeer, or candy cane designs for a fun twist.
- Add a Peppermint Touch: For an extra festive flavor, add a few drops of peppermint extract to the cheesecake mixture.
Reader Engagement
What’s your favorite holiday dessert? Have you tried making Christmas Cheesecake Bars before? I’d love to hear your experiences and any unique twists you’ve added to the recipe. Drop a comment below or share your tips—I’m always looking for new ways to make these bars even better!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make these bars ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the bars up to 2 days in advance. Just store them in the fridge in an airtight container.
Q: What other cookie options can I use?
A: If Pillsbury Christmas cookies aren’t available, you can use any sugar cookie dough or even chocolate chip cookies for a fun variation.
Q: Can I freeze the bars?
A: Yes! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to 1 month.
Final Thoughts
Making Christmas Cheesecake Bars is more than just creating a dessert—it’s about building memories. Whether you’re baking with your kids, hosting a holiday party, or simply indulging in a sweet treat for yourself, these bars are guaranteed to spread holiday cheer.
So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let the holiday baking begin. Don’t forget to tag me if you recreate this recipe—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations!
Happy Holidays and happy baking! 🎄