Description
These Creamy Cookie Squares feature a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a luscious, fluffy cream cheese layer and an optional rich chocolate topping. Perfectly chilled and easy to prepare, they make a delightful dessert for any occasion, combining creamy textures with a crisp base and a hint of chocolate.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (or any cookie crumbs)
- ¼ cup sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cream Layer
- 8 oz (1 package) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Topping (Optional)
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper. In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well mixed. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
- Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes to set it. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely to ensure the cream layer won’t melt when added.
- Make the Cream Layer: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy. Separately, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, blending carefully to maintain fluffiness.
- Assemble the Layers: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled crust using a spatula, smoothing the top. Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow the cream layer to set properly.
- Prepare the Optional Chocolate Topping: Melt chocolate chips together with vegetable oil in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring in between until fully smooth and glossy.
- Add Chocolate Topping: Drizzle or spread the melted chocolate evenly over the set cream layer. Return the pan to the refrigerator for an additional 15–20 minutes to let the chocolate set.
- Cut and Serve: Once fully chilled and set, lift the dessert out of the pan using the parchment paper. Cut into square pieces and serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese for easier mixing and a smoother cream layer.
- Substitute graham cracker crumbs with your favorite cookie crumbs for different flavor profiles.
- The chocolate topping is optional but adds a rich flavor and attractive finish.
- For a firmer crust, press the mixture tightly and bake as directed.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
