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
Scale
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.
