There’s something absolutely magical about combining childhood nostalgia with adult dessert sophistication, and that’s exactly what the Fruity Pebbles Cookie Cheesecake Bars Recipe delivers. Imagine the crunch and vibrant colors of Fruity Pebbles cereal woven into a soft, buttery cookie crust, layered beneath a rich, creamy cheesecake filling, and topped off with even more colorful cereal sparkles. This dessert is as playful as it is decadent, making it an irresistible treat that brightens any gathering or cozy night at home. If you’re looking for a fun twist on classic cheesecake bars that will have everyone smiling, this recipe is your new go-to.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential to making the Fruity Pebbles Cookie Cheesecake Bars Recipe shine. Each element works in harmony to create perfect textures—from the buttery cookie base to the smooth cheesecake and the crunchy, colorful Fruity Pebbles that add charm and character.
- All-purpose flour, 2 1/4 cups: Provides the sturdy base for the cookie dough with just the right structure.
- Baking soda, 1 teaspoon: Helps the cookie crust rise slightly for a tender texture.
- Salt, 1/2 teaspoon: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
- Unsalted butter, 1/2 cup softened: Adds richness and moisture for that melt-in-your-mouth quality.
- Shortening, 1/2 cup: Keeps the cookie dough soft and tender without greasiness.
- Granulated sugar, 1 1/2 cups (divided): Sweetens both the cookie base and the cheesecake filling.
- Light brown sugar, 1/2 cup packed: Brings a subtle caramel depth to the cookie dough.
- Large eggs, 4 (divided): Bind together the dough and create a smooth, creamy cheesecake texture.
- Vanilla extract, 3 teaspoons (divided): Adds warm, fragrant flavor throughout.
- Fruity Pebbles cereal, 3 cups (2 for dough, 1 for topping): Imparts vibrant color, delightful crunch, and nostalgic playfulness.
- Cream cheese, 16 ounces softened: The star of the cheesecake layer, providing a luscious and tangy creaminess.
How to Make Fruity Pebbles Cookie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt to forward an even distribution of your dry ingredients. In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter, shortening, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy—this fluffy texture is key for the cookie crust’s delightful tenderness. Beat in two eggs and two teaspoons of vanilla extract until smooth, then gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Fold in two cups of Fruity Pebbles cereal gently so that you keep their bright colors and crisp texture intact.
Step 2: Press the Cookie Base
Press about two-thirds of the cookie dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Creating an even layer will ensure that your Fruity Pebbles cookie crust bakes uniformly and provides a wonderful foundation for the cheesecake layer.
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a clean bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with half a cup of granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Then add the remaining two eggs and one teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat everything together until the filling is silky and luscious, the perfect complement to the crunchy cookie crust.
Step 4: Layer and Decorate
Pour the cheesecake mixture evenly over the pressed cookie crust. Next, drop spoonfuls of the reserved cookie dough over the cheesecake layer in rustic dollops—that charming imperfection adds to the bars’ homemade feel. Finally, sprinkle the remaining one cup of Fruity Pebbles cereal generously over the top, giving the whole dessert a bright, festive finish.
Step 5: Bake and Chill
Bake your bars for 35 to 40 minutes until the edges are golden and the center is just set without jiggling too much. Allow the pan to cool completely on a wire rack before transferring it to the refrigerator. Chilling for at least two hours, or ideally overnight, makes slicing cleaner and helps the layers set beautifully.
How to Serve Fruity Pebbles Cookie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Add an extra playful touch by garnishing your bars with a few fresh berries or a light dusting of powdered sugar to balance the colorful cereal’s sweetness. A drizzle of white chocolate or a dollop of whipped cream also pairs wonderfully and makes each bite feel even more special.
Side Dishes
These bars are dessert stars, so keeping sides simple is best. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a glass of cold milk for a nostalgic and comforting combo. If you’re feeling fancy, a small cup of coffee or latte enhances the creamy cheesecake flavor and provides a lovely contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Fruity Pebbles cookie cheesecake bars recipe into a dessert buffet highlight by cutting the bars into bite-sized squares and arranging them on a colorful platter with matching napkins. You can also serve individual bars wrapped in wax paper tied with twine for a charming grab-and-go party favor or lunchbox treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay moist and fresh for up to 4 days, which means you can enjoy that fun fruity crunch with creamy cheesecake whenever the craving hits.
Freezing
These bars freeze beautifully, making them perfect for prepping in advance. Wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. They will keep well for up to 2 months. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
Since these bars are best enjoyed chilled, reheating isn’t usually necessary. However, if you prefer a softer texture, a few seconds in the microwave can warm them slightly. Just be careful not to overheat, as the Fruity Pebbles topping might get too soft.
FAQs
Can I substitute other cereals for Fruity Pebbles in this recipe?
Absolutely! While Fruity Pebbles offer that signature color and crunch, Cocoa Pebbles or even Rice Krispies can work well if you want to experiment with flavors and textures.
Why do the bars need to be chilled before cutting?
Chilling the bars allows the cheesecake to firm up and the layers to set, making it much easier to slice cleanly without the bars falling apart.
Can I make these bars dairy-free or vegan?
With some substitutions like plant-based cream cheese and egg replacers, you can adapt the recipe, but it may affect the texture and flavor somewhat. Careful testing will help you nail a vegan version.
How can I store the bars if I’m taking them to a party?
Store the bars in an airtight container and transport them chilled in a cooler bag. If the party lasts several hours, bringing a small cooler is best to keep them fresh and firm.
What’s the best way to get clean slices for serving?
Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water, then wiped dry between cuts. Chilling the bars overnight also makes slicing smoother and more professional-looking.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to brighten up your dessert game and delight friends and family with a colorful, nostalgic treat, give the Fruity Pebbles Cookie Cheesecake Bars Recipe a whirl. It’s the kind of dessert that brings smiles with every bite and offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Trust me, once you try it, these bars will become your new favorite way to enjoy cheesecake with a fun, playful twist!
Print
Fruity Pebbles Cookie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 16 bars
- Category: Dessert, Bars
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Fruity Pebbles Cookie Cheesecake Bars combine a colorful, crunchy cookie base with a creamy cheesecake layer and a vibrant cereal topping, creating a fun and delicious dessert perfect for any occasion. With a soft cookie crust studded with Fruity Pebbles cereal and a smooth cheesecake filling, these bars bring a nostalgic twist to classic cheesecake bars.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup shortening
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups Fruity Pebbles cereal
Cheesecake Layer
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- 1 cup Fruity Pebbles cereal
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make removal easier.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- Cream Wet Ingredients for Cookie Dough: In a large bowl, beat together softened butter, shortening, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes 3-4 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla to Dough: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients and Add Cereal: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Fold in 2 cups of Fruity Pebbles cereal gently to maintain the cereal’s crunchiness.
- Form Cookie Crust: Press about two-thirds of the cookie dough evenly into the prepared baking dish, creating a solid cookie crust layer.
- Prepare Cheesecake Filling: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Then add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined and creamy.
- Assemble Cheesecake Layer: Pour the cream cheese filling over the cookie crust layer in the baking dish and spread it evenly using a spatula.
- Add Remaining Cookie Dough and Cereal Topping: Drop spoonfuls of the remaining cookie dough over the cheesecake layer in a scattered pattern. Then sprinkle 1 cup of Fruity Pebbles cereal evenly over the top for a colorful finish.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is just set but slightly jiggly.
- Cool and Chill: Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set fully. For best results and cleaner slices, chill overnight before cutting into bars.
Notes
- For cleaner slices, chill bars overnight before cutting.
- You can substitute Cocoa Pebbles cereal for a chocolate-flavored variation.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the cheesecake layer.
- Pressing the cookie dough evenly is important for structural stability.
- Store leftover bars refrigerated in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
