Cream Dream Bars

Cream Dream Bars are a luscious, no-bake dessert that perfectly combines a buttery vanilla wafer crust, a smooth cream cheese layer, and a rich swirl of melted butterscotch. These chilled bars are a delightful indulgence, ideal for any occasion from family gatherings to festive events.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cream Dream Bars offer a perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and sweet textures. They require no baking, making them an easy and convenient treat to prepare. The combination of familiar flavors—vanilla, cream cheese, and butterscotch—creates a nostalgic yet irresistible dessert that appeals to all ages. Whether served at a party or as an everyday indulgence, these bars are bound to impress.

ingredients

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

  • 2 cups crushed vanilla wafers

  • ½ cup butter, melted

  • 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened

  • 1 cup powdered sugar

  • 1 cup whipped topping (such as whipped cream or non-dairy whipped topping)

  • 1 cup butterscotch chips, melted

directions

  1. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch pan or line it with parchment paper.

  2. In a medium bowl, mix crushed vanilla wafers with melted butter until evenly coated.

  3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan to form the crust. Refrigerate for 20 minutes to set.

  4. In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.

  5. Fold in the whipped topping gently until the mixture is fully combined and fluffy.

  6. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled crust.

  7. Drizzle or swirl the melted butterscotch chips on top. For a decorative effect, use a knife or toothpick to create patterns.

  8. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours, or until fully set.

  9. Once set, slice into bars and serve chilled.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chilling Time: 3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving

Variations

  • Chocolate twist: Substitute the butterscotch chips with melted chocolate chips for a richer chocolate flavor.

  • Nutty delight: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the top before chilling for added crunch.

  • Fruit fusion: Add a layer of sliced strawberries or bananas between the crust and cream layer for a fruity touch.

  • Graham cracker crust: Swap vanilla wafers for graham crackers for a different base flavor.

  • Pumpkin spice: Add a dash of cinnamon or pumpkin spice to the cream cheese mixture for a fall-inspired version.

storage/reheating

Store Cream Dream Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To maintain their texture, avoid stacking the bars directly. These bars are best served cold and do not require reheating. Freezing is possible for longer storage—freeze individual slices on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQs

How do I crush the vanilla wafers for the crust?

Use a food processor for fine crumbs or place the wafers in a sealed bag and crush with a rolling pin.

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought topping?

Yes, homemade whipped cream works well—just ensure it’s whipped to stiff peaks for best texture.

Is there a substitute for butterscotch chips?

You can use caramel chips or even white chocolate chips as a flavorful alternative.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely, they’re ideal for making ahead. Prepare them a day in advance and store chilled until serving.

What’s the best way to slice the bars cleanly?

Use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts. Chilling the bars thoroughly makes slicing easier.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be used, though it may slightly affect the richness of the dessert.

Are these bars gluten-free?

Only if you use gluten-free vanilla wafers. All other ingredients are typically gluten-free, but always check labels.

What can I do if the crust is too crumbly?

Add a bit more melted butter to help the crumbs bind better when pressed into the pan.

Can I add gelatin to the cream layer for firmness?

It’s not necessary, but a small amount of unflavored gelatin can be added if extra firmness is desired.

How long can I keep these at room temperature?

They should not be left out for more than 2 hours to ensure the cream cheese layer remains safe to eat.

Conclusion

Cream Dream Bars are an effortlessly elegant dessert that brings together familiar flavors in a delightfully creamy and crunchy package. Whether you’re hosting a party or just need a quick dessert fix, these no-bake bars offer simplicity, taste, and presentation all in one. Keep them chilled and serve them up whenever a sweet craving strikes.

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Cream Dream Bars

Cream Dream Bars

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  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-bake
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Indulge in these rich and creamy Cream Dream Bars—a no-bake dessert layered with a buttery vanilla wafer crust, fluffy cream cheese filling, and luscious butterscotch swirl. Perfect for parties or anytime you need a sweet treat, these bars are easy to make and irresistibly delicious. Keywords: Cream Dream Bars, no-bake dessert, cream cheese bars, butterscotch dessert, easy party treat.


Ingredients

  • 2 cups crushed vanilla wafers

  • 1/2 cup butter, melted

  • 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened

  • 1 cup powdered sugar

  • 1 cup whipped topping (such as whipped cream or non-dairy whipped topping)

  • 1 cup butterscotch chips, melted


Instructions

  • Lightly grease or line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper.

  • In a medium bowl, combine crushed vanilla wafers with melted butter. Mix until well combined.

  • Press the mixture evenly into the pan to form a crust. Refrigerate for 20 minutes.

  • In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.

  • Fold in the whipped topping gently until fluffy and well combined.

  • Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled crust.

  • Drizzle or swirl the melted butterscotch chips on top. Use a toothpick or knife for decorative swirls if desired.

  • Chill the bars in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or until fully set.

  • Slice into bars and serve chilled.


Notes

  • For a chocolatey twist, swap butterscotch chips with melted chocolate chips.

  • These bars can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge overnight.

  • Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture.

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