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Crème Brûlée Cookie Bars

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Crème Brûlée Cookie Bars combine the creamy, elegant flavor of classic crème brûlée with the chewy, buttery texture of a cookie bar. Topped with a caramelized sugar crust, they’re a show-stopping dessert made simple.

  • Author: Ella
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 55 minutes
  • Yield: 16 bars
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (divided)
  • 3 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • Extra granulated sugar for topping

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl; set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, cream the butter, brown sugar, and 1/2 cup granulated sugar until fluffy.
  4. Add 1 egg and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; beat until combined.
  5. Gradually stir in dry ingredients to form the cookie dough base.
  6. Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan.
  7. In another bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add remaining 2 eggs, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla, and heavy cream. Mix until smooth.
  8. Pour custard mixture over cookie dough layer and smooth the top.
  9. Bake for 30–35 minutes, until edges are golden and center is just set.
  10. Cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
  11. Before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of granulated sugar on top and caramelize with a kitchen torch until golden and crisp.

Notes

  • Infuse the custard with espresso powder or citrus zest for a flavor twist.
  • Mini chocolate chips can be added to the cookie layer for a chocolate version.
  • If no torch is available, broil the bars briefly for the caramelized top—watch closely!
  • Use full-fat block-style cream cheese for best results.
  • Do not freeze; custard texture may change.

Nutrition