If you love vibrant, nostalgic flavors wrapped in a creamy, dreamy dessert, then this Fruity Pebbles Cookie Cheesecake Bars Recipe is about to become your new obsession. It’s a delightful marriage of buttery sugar cookie crust, smooth cheesecake filling, and those unmistakably colorful, crispy Fruity Pebbles cereal pieces that add a fun crunch and burst of fruity flavor in every bite. Whether you’re craving a vibrant treat for a gathering or a playful twist on classic cheesecake, these bars bring joy and sweetness in every square.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients that come together effortlessly to create a show-stopping dessert. Each component has an important role, contributing texture, flavor, or that iconic pop of color that makes these bars unforgettable.
- Sugar cookie dough (16.5 oz): The buttery base that forms a soft and chewy crust, perfect for holding all the toppings.
- Fruity Pebbles cereal (1 1/2 cups, divided): Adds a vibrant crunch and playful fruity flavor, divided to infuse both the crust and topping.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): The creamy heart of the cheesecake layer, ensuring a smooth and luscious texture.
- Granulated sugar (1/3 cup): Sweetens the cheesecake filling without overpowering the other flavors.
- Large egg (1): Binds the cheesecake filling together for a silky finish.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the richness and adds a subtle, comforting aroma.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and brightens the overall flavor profile.
How to Make Fruity Pebbles Cookie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal. Press the sugar cookie dough evenly into the bottom of the pan—it will be the deliciously soft foundation for your bars. Next, sprinkle half a cup of Fruity Pebbles cereal over the dough and gently press them in so they adhere well during baking. Pop the crust into the oven for 10 glorious minutes to set and start developing that golden edge.
Step 2: Whip the Cheesecake Filling
While the crust is baking, grab a mixing bowl and beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. This luscious filling is what takes these bars from a simple cookie to a decadent cheesecake dessert, so take your time to get it perfectly blended.
Step 3: Assemble and Top
Once the crust comes out of the oven, immediately pour the cheesecake mixture evenly over the warm cookie base. Smooth the top with a spatula for a clean, glossy finish. Now comes the fun part: sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of Fruity Pebbles cereal liberally over the top of the cheesecake layer. This vibrant topping adds not just flavor but a festive look that’s impossible to resist.
Step 4: Bake and Chill
Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the center is set and the edges turn lightly golden brown. Let the bars cool completely at room temperature before transferring them to the fridge. Chilling the bars for at least 2 hours allows the cheesecake to fully set, making slicing neat and the texture just right.
How to Serve Fruity Pebbles Cookie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
These bars are already a visual treat, but adding a few extra touches elevates the experience even more. Consider a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of white chocolate to enhance the sweetness. Fresh berries on the side can add a hint of tartness that beautifully contrasts the rich cheesecake and sugary cereal.
Side Dishes
Keep it simple with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to accompany these Fruity Pebbles Cookie Cheesecake Bars Recipe treats. A cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of cold milk pairs perfectly and balances the sweet, fruity flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving these bars at a party, cut them into bite-sized squares and arrange them on a colorful platter lined with parchment paper. For a playful twist, serve alongside a small bowl of extra Fruity Pebbles cereal for guests to sprinkle on top just before eating. These bars also look fantastic stacked in clear glass jars as party favors or gifts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover bars stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days, making for an easy grab-and-go snack or dessert during the week.
Freezing
Fruity Pebbles Cookie Cheesecake Bars Recipe can be frozen for longer storage. Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for the best texture.
Reheating
Since the texture relies on the cheesecake set, it’s best to enjoy these bars cold or at room temperature. If you prefer them slightly warmed, heat gently for about 10-15 seconds in the microwave, but avoid overheating to prevent the cereal from becoming soggy.
FAQs
Can I use homemade sugar cookie dough instead of refrigerated dough?
Absolutely! Homemade sugar cookie dough works wonderfully, just make sure it’s chilled so it’s easier to press into the pan and bake evenly.
Is it possible to substitute another cereal for Fruity Pebbles?
Yes, you can swap in cereals with similar texture and fruity flavors like Trix or Fruit Loops, but Fruity Pebbles are uniquely perfect for that bright color and crisp bite.
Do I need to let the bars chill before slicing?
Chilling is important to allow the cheesecake layer to set fully, which helps with clean slicing and keeps the bars from falling apart.
Can I double this recipe for a larger batch?
Definitely! Just use a larger baking pan or two 8×8 pans, and adjust baking times slightly, checking for doneness by the cheesecake’s set center and golden edges.
How can I make these bars vegan or dairy-free?
You can experiment with dairy-free cream cheese and egg substitutes, although the texture and flavor may vary slightly. Be sure to use a vegan sugar cookie dough or make your own with plant-based ingredients.
Final Thoughts
This Fruity Pebbles Cookie Cheesecake Bars Recipe is pure joy in every bite—chewy, creamy, colorful, and fun. It’s the kind of dessert that brings out smiles and nostalgia all at once, perfect for sharing with friends or treating yourself on any day. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and see how a few simple ingredients come together to create something truly magical.
Print
Fruity Pebbles Cookie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Fruity Pebbles Cookie Cheesecake Bars combine a sweet sugar cookie crust with a creamy cheesecake layer, all topped with the colorful crunch of Fruity Pebbles cereal. This delightful dessert offers a fun twist on classic cheesecake bars, perfect for parties or anytime you want a viral, crowd-pleasing treat with a burst of fruity flavor and vibrant texture.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 package (16.5 oz) refrigerated sugar cookie dough
- 1/2 cup Fruity Pebbles cereal
Cheesecake Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Topping
- 1 cup Fruity Pebbles cereal
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.
- Form the Crust: Press the refrigerated sugar cookie dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to create a uniform crust. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of Fruity Pebbles cereal over the dough and gently press it in so it adheres slightly. Bake this crust layer for 10 minutes to set.
- Make Cheesecake Mixture: While the crust bakes, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth and creamy with no lumps.
- Add Cheesecake Layer: After removing the partially baked crust from the oven, pour the cream cheese mixture evenly over it and smooth the surface with a spatula to distribute it uniformly.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of Fruity Pebbles cereal evenly over the top of the cheesecake layer, adding a colorful and crunchy finishing touch.
- Bake the Bars: Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheesecake center is set and the edges become lightly golden brown, indicating doneness.
- Cool and Chill: Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature. Then place them in the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours to firm up before slicing into squares for serving.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth cheesecake filling.
- Pressing the Fruity Pebbles gently into the crust before baking helps keep the topping intact.
- Chilling the bars thoroughly before slicing helps achieve clean, neat bars.
- You can substitute other colorful crispy cereals if you prefer different flavors or textures.
- Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
