If you are craving a dessert that perfectly balances creamy richness with refreshing fruitiness, look no further than this delightful Strawberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe. These bars combine a buttery graham cracker crust with a luscious cream cheese filling, topped generously with fresh, vibrant strawberries that burst with natural sweetness. Whether you’re making them for a casual family get-together or a special celebration, these bars are sure to steal the show and bring smiles all around.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this Strawberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe is a breeze because each element is straightforward yet crucial, contributing beautifully to the cake’s texture, sweetness, and fresh flavor. From the crumbly, buttery crust to the creamy cheesecake layer and juicy strawberry topping, every component plays an important role.
- Graham cracker crumbs (1 1/2 cups): Provides the perfect crunchy, slightly sweet base that holds everything together.
- Granulated sugar (divided): Sweetens both the crust and the strawberry topping for a balanced taste.
- Unsalted butter, melted (1/2 cup): Adds richness and moisture to the crust for that satisfying buttery bite.
- Cream cheese, softened (2 packages of 8 oz each): The star ingredient that delivers the classic creamy texture and tangy flavor.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances the overall flavor with a hint of warmth and depth.
- Large eggs (2): Helps to bind the filling and gives it a smooth, firm texture.
- Sour cream (1/4 cup): Adds tanginess and ensures the cheesecake filling is moist and silky.
- Heavy cream or milk (1/4 cup): Lightens the filling and makes each bite irresistibly creamy.
- Fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced (2 cups): Infuse the bars with bright, juicy freshness and vibrant color.
- Optional lemon juice (1 tbsp): Brightens the strawberry topping with a subtle citrus zing.
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the crust
Start by mixing 1 1/2 cups of graham cracker crumbs with 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter. This combination creates a crumbly, buttery base that you’ll press firmly into your baking pan to form the perfect foundation for your cheesecake bars.
Step 2: Make the cheesecake filling
In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and 1 cup of granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. The smoothness here is key, so take your time to eliminate any lumps for that silky finish.
Step 3: Add the flavor and eggs
Mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, then add 2 large eggs one at a time, beating until just combined to hold the filling together without overmixing which can affect texture.
Step 4: Incorporate sour cream and cream
Blend in 1/4 cup sour cream and 1/4 cup heavy cream (or milk). These ingredients add tang and creaminess that make the cheesecake filling wonderfully smooth and rich without being too dense.
Step 5: Assemble and add the strawberries
Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the graham cracker crust in the pan. Then, spread 2 cups of hulled and sliced fresh strawberries on top. For extra flavor and sweetness, toss the strawberries with 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice beforehand so they soften slightly and blend beautifully with the cream cheese base.
Step 6: Bake and cool
Bake your dessert for about 35 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Once out of the oven, allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating to let them firm up, which makes slicing clean and neat.
How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra special touch, sprinkle some finely chopped toasted nuts or a light dusting of powdered sugar over the bars before serving. Fresh mint leaves also pair beautifully, adding a refreshing pop of green and subtle aroma.
Side Dishes
These bars shine on their own but can be served alongside a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. If you want a more grown-up pairing, a light drizzle of balsamic glaze complements the strawberry topping wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the bars into smaller squares and placing them on decorative platters for parties. Alternatively, you can serve the cheesecake filling layered in small glasses topped with macerated strawberries for an elegant parfait twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, keep your leftover Strawberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe covered tightly with plastic wrap or foil in the refrigerator. They will maintain their freshness and flavor for up to 4 days, making them a perfect make-ahead treat.
Freezing
These bars freeze beautifully. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.
Reheating
Chilled cheesecake bars are best served cold, but if you prefer a softer texture, allow them to sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before eating. Avoid microwaving as it can alter the creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
While fresh strawberries are preferred for their texture and flavor, you can use frozen ones. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain excess liquid to avoid soggy bars.
Is it necessary to use sour cream in the filling?
Sour cream adds a nice tang and moisture to the filling, but you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or omit it for a slightly different texture and flavor.
How do I prevent cracks in the cheesecake filling?
Mix the filling ingredients gently without overbeating and bake at the recommended temperature. Avoid shaking the pan while baking and cool the bars gradually to prevent cracking.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free graham crumbs or crushed gluten-free cookies to keep the crust gluten-free without compromising taste.
What’s the best pan size for this recipe?
A 9×9 inch square baking pan works perfectly, giving you bars that are thick enough while baking evenly.
Final Thoughts
There is something so comforting about a dessert that combines creamy cheesecake and fresh fruit in one bite, and this Strawberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe truly delivers that experience. From the first forkful to the last crumb, these bars will quickly become a beloved favorite to bake again and again. So, gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this irresistible delight—you deserve it!
Print
Strawberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours (including chilling time)
- Yield: 12-16 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious and creamy Strawberry Cheesecake Bars featuring a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a smooth cream cheese filling and fresh strawberry slices. Perfect for dessert or a sweet snack, these bars balance rich flavors with fruity freshness.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups Graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup Granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup Unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 2 (8 oz) packages Cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup Granulated sugar
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
- 2 Large eggs
- 1/4 cup Sour cream
- 1/4 cup Heavy cream or milk
Topping
- 2 cups Fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup Granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp Lemon juice (optional, for added flavor)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Stir in the melted unsalted butter until the mixture is well combined and resembles wet sand.
- Form the crust: Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking pan, creating a compact crust layer. Set aside.
- Make the filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add 1 cup granulated sugar and vanilla extract, beating well to combine and create a creamy base.
- Add eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Incorporate dairy: Mix in the sour cream and heavy cream (or milk) until the filling is smooth and creamy.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the cream cheese filling over the prepared graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for about 35 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still slightly jiggles.
- Prepare strawberry topping: While the cheesecake bars bake, toss the sliced strawberries with 1/4 cup granulated sugar and lemon juice if using, and let them macerate for about 15 minutes to release juices and soften.
- Cool and top: Allow the baked cheesecake bars to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set fully. Before serving, spread the macerated strawberries evenly over the top of the bars.
- Slice and serve: Cut into 12 to 16 bars and serve chilled for a refreshing and decadent treat.
Notes
- Use full-fat cream cheese and heavy cream for the richest texture.
- Let the cream cheese reach room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps.
- Refrigerating the bars overnight enhances flavor and texture.
- Lemon juice is optional but adds a nice brightness to the strawberries.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 3 days.
