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
-
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch pan or line it with parchment paper.
-
In a medium bowl, mix crushed vanilla wafers with melted butter until evenly coated.
-
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan to form the crust. Refrigerate for 20 minutes to set.
-
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
-
Fold in the whipped topping gently until the mixture is fully combined and fluffy.
-
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled crust.
-
Drizzle or swirl the melted butterscotch chips on top. For a decorative effect, use a knife or toothpick to create patterns.
-
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours, or until fully set.
-
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.
Print
Cream Dream Bars
- 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.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *