Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking pan (9x13 inches) or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until it’s fluffy. Add in the egg and vanilla, mixing until well combined.

Gradually mix in the flour, baking powder, and salt until a soft dough forms.

Reserve about 1 cup of the sugar cookie dough for topping, and press the remaining dough firmly into the prepared baking pan.

Bake the cookie base for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.

In another bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth.

Add the eggs, vanilla, and flour, mixing until fully combined.

Spread the cheesecake filling over the cookie crust, crumbling the reserved cookie dough on top.

Bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the edges turn golden and the center is set.

Allow the cheesecake bars to cool completely, then chill in the refrigerator for a few hours before slicing.

Serve cold and enjoy!