Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

If you love the classic flavor of cheesecake but want a fun twist, these Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are for you! Imagine smooth, creamy cheesecake swirled with sweet, vibrant strawberry goodness, all resting on a buttery graham cracker crust. Each bite is a perfect balance of tangy cream cheese, sweet strawberries, and a crunchy base, making these bars the perfect treat for any occasion. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll want to make these again and again. They’re just that good!

Why You’ll Love Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

These bars are the perfect combination of rich and refreshing. Here’s why they’ll become your new favorite dessert:

No-Bake Option: While there is a baking step for the crust, the cheesecake filling comes together easily with just a bit of mixing, making it perfect for when you want a no-fuss dessert.

Perfectly Sweet: The sweetness of the strawberry topping contrasts beautifully with the tangy, smooth cheesecake filling. It’s a flavor combination that’s impossible to resist.

Great for All Occasions: Whether it’s a special celebration, a potluck, or just a sweet treat after dinner, these cheesecake bars are always a hit.

Easy to Slice and Serve: Since it’s in bar form, these are so easy to cut and serve, making them a perfect choice for parties or gatherings.

Make-Ahead Friendly: These bars can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for a day or two. It’s a great dessert when you want to prepare something in advance!

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• Graham Crackers: The base of the crust, giving it that signature crunchy texture.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness to the crust.
• Butter: Holds the crust together and gives it that rich flavor.

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• Cream Cheese: The creamy base of the cheesecake filling. Make sure it’s softened so it blends easily.
• Sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake mixture.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, fragrant note that complements the creamy filling.
• Sour Cream: For extra creaminess and a slight tang.
• Eggs: Help bind the cheesecake and make it set as it bakes.

For the Strawberry Topping:

• Fresh Strawberries: Provides that fresh, fruity, and sweet flavor.
• Sugar: Helps sweeten the strawberries and bring out their natural juices.
• Lemon Juice: A bit of acidity to balance the sweetness of the strawberries.

(Note: Specific measurements are provided in the recipe card above.)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers and sugar. Add melted butter and stir until the mixture is well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking pan to form a crust. Bake for 8-10 minutes until golden, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling
   In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the sugar, vanilla extract, and sour cream, and mix until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly.
3. Bake the Cheesecake Bars
   Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Let the cheesecake cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until fully set.
4. Make the Strawberry Topping
   While the cheesecake is chilling, prepare the strawberry topping. In a saucepan, combine the strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries release their juices and the mixture thickens slightly, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
5. Assemble the Bars
   Once the cheesecake has set, pour the strawberry topping over the chilled cheesecake layer. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. Return the bars to the refrigerator for another hour to allow the topping to set.
6. Serve and Enjoy
   Once the bars are fully set, cut them into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy the sweet, creamy goodness with a refreshing burst of strawberry!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 9
Calories per serving: ~290
Total Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 190mg
Total Carbohydrates: 27g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 18g
Protein: 4g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
Chill Time: 5 hours
Total Time: 6 hours

How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

• For a Sweet Treat: These bars are perfect as a dessert after a family dinner or a weekend brunch.
• At Parties: Because they’re served in bar form, these are easy to cut and serve at parties or potlucks.
• With a Cup of Tea or Coffee: Pair these cheesecake bars with your favorite hot drink for a delightful afternoon treat.
• As a Gift: These make a great homemade gift for friends and family—just wrap them up in a cute box or container.

Additional Tips

• Fresh Strawberries: While frozen strawberries can be used in a pinch, fresh berries will give the topping the best flavor and texture.
• Chill Time Is Key: Make sure to give the cheesecake enough time to set in the fridge. It’s the secret to getting that perfect slice!
• Customize the Topping: Feel free to switch up the topping with other fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or even a mixed berry compote.
• Make It Gluten-Free: To make this gluten-free, swap the graham cracker crust for a gluten-free option, like almond flour or gluten-free cookies.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make these bars ahead of time?
A1: Yes! These bars can be made up to 2 days in advance. Just store them covered in the fridge.

Q2: Can I use frozen strawberries for the topping?
A2: Yes, but fresh strawberries will give a better texture and flavor for the topping.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Q4: Can I freeze these bars?
A4: Yes, you can freeze the cheesecake bars before adding the strawberry topping. Wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Add the strawberry topping after thawing.

Q5: Can I make the crust without butter?
A5: Yes, you can substitute the butter with coconut oil or a non-dairy alternative to make it dairy-free.

Q6: How can I make the cheesecake bars less sweet?
A6: Reduce the amount of sugar in the filling and topping, or substitute with a sugar alternative.

Q7: Can I use a different fruit for the topping?
A7: Absolutely! You can use other berries or even peaches, mangoes, or cherries for a unique twist.

Q8: How do I cut these bars without making a mess?
A8: Use a sharp knife and clean it between each cut to ensure clean edges. You can also chill the bars longer to firm up the texture.

Q9: Can I make these bars without eggs?
A9: Yes, you can use a flax egg or a store-bought egg replacer to make these bars egg-free.

Q10: Can I make the cheesecake filling ahead of time?
A10: Yes! You can make the filling the night before and refrigerate it overnight. Just pour it over the crust and bake the next day.

Conclusion

These Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are the perfect treat for any occasion—sweet, creamy, and packed with fruity flavor. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them after a long day, they’re sure to become a favorite! So go ahead, make a batch, and indulge in every delightful bite!

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