Layered Vanilla Cream Dessert Bars feature a buttery crust, smooth vanilla cream filling, and a delicate topping, creating an elegant, easy-to-make dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These dessert bars are simple to prepare yet impressive, combining rich vanilla cream with a tender crust. They are perfect for parties, potlucks, or a sweet treat after dinner.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Butter
Sugar
Eggs
Vanilla extract
Cream cheese or heavy cream
Powdered sugar

Directions

Prepare crust by mixing flour, butter, and sugar. Press into a baking dish and bake until lightly golden.
Whip cream cheese or heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.
Spread vanilla cream evenly over cooled crust.
Chill in refrigerator for at least 2 hours before slicing into bars.

Servings and Timing

Makes 12 bars, preparation and chilling about 3 hours.

Variations

Add fresh berries or fruit compote between layers.
Use lemon zest or almond extract for flavor variations.
Top with shredded coconut or chopped nuts for texture.

Storage/Reheating

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Serve chilled.

FAQs

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, they improve in flavor after chilling.

Can I freeze the bars?

Freeze uncut bars wrapped tightly, thaw before serving.

Can I substitute cream cheese with sour cream?

Cream cheese is best for texture; sour cream will change consistency.

Is it possible to make gluten-free crust?

Use gluten-free flour blend in equal amounts.

How thick should the vanilla cream layer be?

About 1/2 inch is ideal for balance.

Can I use whipped cream instead of cream cheese?

Yes, but bars will be lighter and less firm.

Can I add gelatin for firmness?

Yes, dissolve gelatin in warm water and fold in for a firmer set.

What type of pan is best?

An 8×8 or 9×9 inch square pan works well.

Can I add chocolate chips to the crust?

Yes, for added texture and flavor.

How to prevent crust from becoming soggy?

Bake crust fully before adding cream and chill thoroughly.

Conclusion

Layered Vanilla Cream Dessert Bars are an elegant and creamy treat that is easy to prepare and sure to impress, ideal for any occasion where a delicate dessert is desired.

Layered Vanilla Cream Dessert Bars

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Layered Vanilla Cream Dessert Bars feature a buttery crust, smooth vanilla cream filling, and a delicate topping, creating an elegant, easy-to-make dessert.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours (including chilling)
Yield: 12 bars 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking, Chilling
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
8 oz cream cheese or 1 cup heavy cream
1 cup powdered sugar

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix flour, butter, and sugar until crumbly. Press into a baking dish and bake until lightly golden, about 15 minutes. Cool.
Whip cream cheese or heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.
Spread vanilla cream evenly over cooled crust.
Chill in refrigerator for at least 2 hours before slicing into bars.