Ultimate Funfetti Cheesecake Bars: Easy Recipe

There are days when I look at my kitchen and feel absolutely overwhelmed by the idea of making something complicated. I know that feeling all too well; when I first moved to the U.S. in my thirties, I wanted to recreate the warmth of home but often felt too drained to tackle intricate recipes. That’s why I have fallen in love with these Funfetti Cheesecake Bars.

They are the ultimate “small victory” in the kitchen. You get all the creamy decadence of a cheesecake without the stress of a water bath or hours of preparation. These bars are vibrant, joyful, and incredibly forgiving for beginner bakers. Whether you need a quick dessert for a birthday or just want to brighten up a Tuesday night, this recipe is here to help you find that joy in the kitchen again.

Why You’ll Love These Foolproof Funfetti Cheesecake Bars

If you have ever felt intimidated by traditional cheesecake, this recipe is going to change your mind. It is designed for busy adults who want impressive results without the headache.

First, there is absolutely no water bath required. You don’t have to worry about wrapping pans in foil or boiling water; they bake perfectly right in a standard 13×9 metal pan. This saves time and eliminates the biggest stress factor of cheesecake baking.

Second, the Golden Oreo crust adds a unique, buttery sweetness that is much faster to prep than a traditional dough. Combined with the ease of the batter, you can have these in the oven quickly.

Finally, they are instant mood boosters. The colorful sprinkles and nostalgic taste make them perfect for celebrations, yet they are simple enough to make just because you need a treat. It is a foolproof way to put a smile on everyone’s face, including your own.

What Makes These Funfetti Cheesecake Bars So Easy and Perfect?

The secret to why these bars always turn out so well lies in a few smart ingredient choices suitable for a busy lifestyle. I realized early on that using a high-quality cake mix in the batter stabilizes the cheesecake. It adds that classic “birthday cake” flavor while ensuring the texture sets up perfectly every time.

Additionally, the baking method is straightforward. By baking at a steady temperature and letting the parchment paper do the work of preventing cracks, you strip away the need for complex techniques. You are essentially making a simple batter, pouring it over a quick crust, and letting the oven do the rest. It is cooking with confidence, even if you are a total beginner. For more easy baking projects that build confidence, check out our collection.

Getting Started: Essential Ingredients for Your Funfetti Cheesecake Bars

Before we start mixing, let’s talk about the key players in this recipe. Using the right ingredients makes a huge difference in getting that smooth, creamy texture we all crave.

The Best Cream Cheese for a Creamy Cheesecake

You absolutely must use brick-style cream cheese for this recipe. Please avoid the whipped cream cheese sold in tubs; it contains too much air and water, which will prevent your bars from setting properly. Make sure your brick-style cream cheese is softened to room temperature so it blends smoothly without lumps.

Choosing Your Funfetti Cake Mix

The dry cake mix is the magic binder here. It infuses the cheesecake with vanilla flavor and creates a sturdy yet creamy consistency. You can use any standard “Confetti” or “Funfetti” brand cake mix found in the baking aisle.

Sour Cream: The Secret to Tangy Smoothness

Sour cream is my favorite secret weapon in baking. It adds moisture and a slight tang that cuts through the sweetness of the sugar and white chocolate notes. It ensures every bite is velvety rather than heavy or dry.

Golden Oreos: The Perfect Crust Foundation

I love using Golden Oreos for the base because they are sturdy and sweet. Do not remove the filling! The cream filling helps bind the crust together with the butter, creating a solid base that doesn’t crumble apart when you slice it.

Sprinkles: The Pop of Celebration

For the best visual appeal inside the bars, good quality sprinkles matter. The ones included in the cake mix are great, but for the extra addition, try to use “jimmies” (the rod-shaped ones). They hold their shape better and are less likely to bleed into your batter compared to the tiny round nonpareils.

Ingredients

Here is exactly what you need to gather to make these delicious bars:

• 25 Golden Oreos ((do not remove the filling))
• 4 Tablespoons butter (melted (salted or unsalted is fine))
• 32 oz cream cheese (softened to room temperature (use brick-style cream cheese, not the sort sold in tubs))
• 1 ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup Funfetti cake mix
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs, lightly beaten (room temperature preferred)
• ¼ cup colored sprinkles

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to get your cheesecake bars in the oven:

1. Preheat oven to 350F (175C) and line a 13×9 metal pan with parchment paper (I like to use enough that it goes up the sides of the pan (this helps keep the cheesecake from cracking as the parchment will allow it to constrict as it cools).
2. Place Golden Oreos in a food processor and process cookies into fine crumbs.
3. Add melted butter, process until fully incorporated.
4. Pour cookie crumbs into the bottom of prepared and tamp down into an even layer. Set aside.
5. Using an electric mixer, cream together cream cheese and sugars until smooth and creamy. and sour cream until smooth.
6. Add sour cream, cake mix, and vanilla extract and stir on low-speed until smooth, scraping down the sides with a spatula as needed to make sure all ingredients are well-combined.
7. Add eggs, one at a time, stirring until just combined after each addition.
8. Add colored sprinkles and stir quickly by hand until combined.
9. Pour cheesecake batter evenly into prepared pan over crust.
10. Bake at 350F for 35-40 minutes (center of cheesecake should be set).
11. Top with homemade whipped cream and additional sprinkles, if desired.
12. Refrigerate at least 4 hours before cutting and serving.

Pro Tips for Perfect Funfetti Cheesecake Bars

I have had my fair share of kitchen fails, so I want to help you avoid them. Here are a few tips I have learned along the way to ensure your bars look and taste professional.

Ensuring an Even Crust Layer Every Time

To get that perfect, firm base, don’t just use your fingers to press the crumbs down. I like to use the flat bottom of a measuring cup or a glass. Press firmly and evenly across the entire pan; this ensures the crust stays together when you cut the bars later.

The Secret to Smooth, Crack-Free Cheesecake Batter

Temperature is everything. If your cream cheese or eggs are cold, you will be tempted to over-mix the batter to get the lumps out. Over-mixing adds too much air, which causes the cheesecake to puff up and then crack. Ensure everything is at room temperature before you start.

Folding in Sprinkles Without Streaks

When it is time to add the final ¼ cup of sprinkles, put the electric mixer away. Fold them in gently and quickly by hand using a spatula. If you mix too vigorously, the colors can bleed, turning your beautiful white batter into a muddy gray color.

Knowing When Your Cheesecake Bars Are Perfectly Baked

It can be tricky to tell when cheesecake is done. You are looking for a “set” center that still has a very gentle jiggle when you shake the pan, similar to set gelatin. It should not look liquid, but it shouldn’t be stiff either. It will firm up completely as it cools in the fridge.

Cutting Clean Funfetti Cheesecake Bars

For those sharp, bakery-style edges, make sure the bars are thoroughly chilled (at least 4 hours, but overnight is better). Run a sharp knife under hot water, wipe it dry, and make one cut. Wipe the knife clean and reheat it between every single slice.

Funfetti Cheesecake Bar Variations & Customization Ideas

Cooking should be about what you love. Here are some ways to switch things up if you want to experiment with flavors or simply use what you have in the pantry.

Make-Ahead, Storage, and Gifting Funfetti Cheesecake Bars

These bars are actually better when you plan ahead, which is great for us busy cooks.

Can You Make Funfetti Cheesecake Bars Ahead of Time?

Yes, and you should! These bars need time to set in the fridge to achieve the perfect texture. I often make them the day before an event. They taste even better after resting for 24 hours as the flavors have time to meld together.

How to Store Your Funfetti Cheesecake Bars

Keep the bars in the refrigerator up until you are ready to serve them. Store leftover slices in an airtight container for up to 5 days. If you need to keep them longer, you can freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before eating.

Gifting Your Homemade Funfetti Bars

These make lovely gifts. Since they need to stay cool, I recommend gifting them in a small box with an ice pack if they will be traveling long distances. I like to place each bar in a jumbo cupcake liner inside a bakery box; it looks professional and keeps them from sticking together.

Troubleshooting Common Funfetti Cheesecake Bar Issues

If things don’t go perfectly, don’t worry. Here is how to fix or prevent common issues.

Why Did My Funfetti Cheesecake Bars Crack?

Cracks usually happen for two reasons: over-mixing the batter (which adds air) or drastic temperature changes. Avoid opening the oven door while they bake. Also, try to avoid over-baking them; remember, they should still jiggle slightly in the center when you take them out.

My Sprinkles Bled Into the Batter!

This happens if you stir too much after adding the sprinkles. Stir them in at the very last second, just enough to distribute them. Also, check your sprinkle type; cheap nonpareils bleed instantly, while waxier “jimmies” hold their color better.

The Center of My Cheesecake Bars Sunk!

If the center sinks significantly, it likely means too much air was beaten into the eggs. Add eggs one at a time and mix on the lowest speed possible. It could also mean they were slightly under-baked, so the structure wasn’t strong enough to hold up as it cooled.

Frequently Asked Questions about Funfetti Cheesecake Bars

Can I Use Homemade Cookie Crumbs Instead of Store-Bought Oreos?

You certainly can use other cookies, but the cream filling in the Oreos adds necessary fat and sweetness. If you use plain cookies (like shortbread), you may need to increase the melted butter slightly to get the crust to stick together.

Can I Make These Funfetti Cheesecake Bars Gluten-Free or Dairy-Free?

For gluten-free, use gluten-free sandwich cookies and a gluten-free cake mix; the result is very similar. For dairy-free, you can try plant-based cream cheese and sour cream limits, but be aware that the texture might be softer and less firm than the traditional version.

How Do I Adjust This Recipe for Different Pan Sizes?

This recipe is perfectly scaled for a 13×9 pan. If you want to make a smaller batch in an 8×8 or 9×9 square pan, you should cut all the ingredients exactly in half. The baking time may need to be reduced slightly, so check them around the 25-30 minute mark.

What Kind of Sprinkles Should I Use for Best Results?

I always recommend long, rod-shaped sprinkles (jimmies) or confetti quins (flat circles). Avoid the tiny round balls (nonpareils) for mixing into the batter, as their color bleeds very quickly and they can add a crunchy, gritty texture that distracts from the creamy cheesecake.

More Easy Desserts You’ll Love

If you enjoyed how simple and comforting this recipe was, I have a few others that serve up joy without the stress. You should try my easy Air Fryer S’mores, which bring the campfire inside in minutes. Or, for another creamy delight, look for my No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars; they are a lifesaver when you don’t even want to turn the oven on. For even more quick and easy dessert ideas, browse our full collection.

Conclusion

I hope these Funfetti Cheesecake Bars bring a little brightness to your kitchen and your day. Cooking doesn’t have to be perfect to be wonderful, and this recipe is proof that you can create something beautiful and delicious without stress. I am cheering for you to give this a try!

I would love to hear how they turned out for you. Did you make them for a birthday or just a Tuesday treat? Please leave a comment below or share a photo on social media using #AishaRecipesFunfetti so I can see your colorful creations. Let’s find the joy in cooking together!

Funfetti Cheesecake Bars

These festive Funfetti Cheesecake Bars feature a golden Oreo crust topped with a creamy, sprinkle-filled cheesecake batter, baked until perfectly set. A delightful dessert for any celebration, they're easy to make and even easier to enjoy.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 38 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 3 minutes mins

Servings: 12 bars

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 25 Golden Oreos do not remove the filling
• 4 Tablespoons butter melted (salted or unsalted is fine)
• 32 oz cream cheese softened to room temperature (use brick-style cream cheese, not the sort sold in tubs)
• 1 ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup Funfetti cake mix
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs lightly beaten (room temperature preferred)
• ¼ cup colored sprinkles

Equipment

• 13x9 metal pan
• parchment paper
• food processor
• electric mixer
• spatula

Method

 

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350F (175C) and line a 13x9 metal pan with parchment paper.
2. Process Golden Oreos into fine crumbs using a food processor.
3. Add melted butter to the crumbs and process until incorporated.
4. Press the cookie crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan and set aside.
5. Using an electric mixer, cream together softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and sour cream until smooth.
6. Incorporate the Funfetti cake mix and vanilla extract, stirring on low speed and scraping the sides to ensure all ingredients are well-combined.
7. Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently until just combined after each addition.
8. Fold in the colored sprinkles quickly by hand until evenly distributed.
9. Pour the cheesecake batter evenly over the prepared cookie crust in the pan.
10. Bake at 350F (175C) for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set.
11. Optionally, top the cooled bars with homemade whipped cream and extra sprinkles.
12. Refrigerate the cheesecake bars for at least 4 hours before slicing and serving.

Notes

For best results, use brick-style cream cheese and ensure all dairy ingredients and eggs are at room temperature. Lining the pan with parchment paper that extends up the sides helps prevent the cheesecake from cracking as it cools. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, before cutting and serving. Garnish with whipped cream and extra sprinkles if desired.