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Easy Halloween Sugar Cookie Bars: 5-Ingredient Recipe

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These easy 5-ingredient Halloween sugar cookie bars combine a chewy yellow cake mix crust with a rich, creamy orange cream cheese layer. They are quick to make, require no special skills, and deliver a delicious, festive treat perfect for parties or busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 15.25 oz box yellow cake mix (standard brand, not super moist)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1–2 teaspoons orange gel food coloring
  • 8 oz block cream cheese, softened (full-fat)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with foil or parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the dry cake mix and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles coarse sand and holds together when squeezed.
  3. Press the crumbly mixture firmly into the prepared pan to form an even, compact crust.
  4. In a separate clean bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until completely smooth and creamy.
  5. Add the orange gel food coloring to the cream cheese mixture and mix gently until uniform in color.
  6. Pour the orange cream cheese mixture over the pressed crust and spread evenly with a spatula.
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is set and lightly golden, and the edges are pulling away slightly. The center should have a slight jiggle.
  8. Cool the bars completely in the pan on a wire rack for at least 1 hour (or overnight in the fridge) before cutting to ensure clean slices.

Notes

Use gel food coloring instead of liquid to prevent a soggy texture. Ensure cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps. Do not overbake, as the bars continue to set while cooling. For best results, let them cool completely before cutting.

Nutrition

Keywords: Halloween dessert, sugar cookie bars, 5-ingredient recipe, easy baking, cream cheese bars, Halloween treats, quick dessert

Find it online: https://lindabake.com/easy-halloween-sugar-cookie-bars-5-ingredient-recipe/