Layered Cookie Bars are the ultimate dessert indulgence, combining a buttery Golden Oreo crust, chewy chocolate chip cookie dough, a rich cheesecake layer, and a gooey caramel-nut topping. These bars offer a perfect balance of textures and flavors in every bite—making them a show-stopping treat for parties, bake sales, or any time you crave something sweet and decadent.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Triple-layered goodness: Oreo crust, cookie dough, and cheesecake
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Loaded with caramel, chocolate chips, toffee bits, and pecans
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Perfect for holidays, bake sales, and indulgent snack tables
Ingredients Breakdown
Crust Layer:
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Golden Oreos (1 package / 14.3 oz) – Crushed to form a sweet, crunchy base.
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Unsalted Butter (½ cup, melted) – Binds the Oreo crumbs into a cohesive crust.
Cookie Dough Layer:
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Unsalted Butter (½ cup, softened) – Provides richness and a soft texture.
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Granulated Sugar (½ cup) – Adds sweetness and structure.
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Brown Sugar (½ cup, packed) – Adds depth and a hint of molasses flavor.
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Large Egg (1) – Binds the dough together.
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Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Enhances flavor.
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All-Purpose Flour (1¼ cups) – Forms the base of the dough.
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Baking Soda (½ tsp) – Leavening agent for a slight rise.
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Salt (¼ tsp) – Balances sweetness and enhances other flavors.
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Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (1 cup) – Classic chocolatey goodness in every bite.
Cheesecake Layer:
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Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened) – Adds creaminess and a tangy contrast.
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Granulated Sugar (¼ cup) – Sweetens the cheesecake layer.
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Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Adds warmth and depth.
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Large Egg (1) – Helps the cheesecake layer set during baking.
Toppings:
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Caramel Sauce (½ cup) – Adds a gooey, buttery layer of sweetness.
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Chopped Pecans (½ cup) – Provides a nutty crunch.
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Toffee Bits (½ cup) – Adds a rich, buttery caramel crunch.
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Mini Chocolate Chips (¼ cup) – Extra chocolate flavor and visual appeal.
Tips and Tricks
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Chill before slicing for clean cuts
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Use a food processor for even Oreo crumbs
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Swap Golden Oreos with graham crackers or chocolate sandwich cookies
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Lightly toast pecans before adding for deeper flavor
Variations and Customizations
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Add peanut butter chips to the cookie dough for a nutty twist
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Replace caramel with dulce de leche for a richer finish
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Make it festive: top with red & green M&Ms for the holidays
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Use a chocolate cookie base for extra cocoa decadence
Pairing Suggestions
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Pair with a glass of cold milk or vanilla latte
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Serve with a scoop of salted caramel or vanilla bean ice cream
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Plate with fresh raspberries or strawberries for a fruity contrast
Storage Instructions
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Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days
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Freezer: Freeze bars (uncut or pre-cut) tightly wrapped for up to 2 months
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To Serve: Let thaw overnight in the fridge or 1 hour at room temperature
Popular Questions
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes! These bars are perfect for prepping the day before a party or event.
Can I use store-bought cookie dough?
You can, but homemade adds better flavor and texture.
Are these bars overly sweet?
They’re rich but balanced. Reduce the caramel drizzle or toffee bits for a less sweet version.