Introduction:
Indulge in the perfect fusion of creamy cheesecake, fresh strawberries, and a buttery crumble topping with these Strawberry Crumble Cheesecake Bars. This irresistible dessert combines a graham cracker crust with a smooth cheesecake filling, topped with sweet strawberries and a crunchy crumble. Whether you’re hosting a party, attending a potluck, or simply craving a delightful treat, these bars are sure to please!
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Strawberry Topping:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen strawberries, chopped
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
For the Crumble Topping:
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the crust. Bake for 8 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar and continue to beat until well combined. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract. Pour the cheesecake filling over the pre-baked crust and spread it evenly.
- Prepare the Strawberry Topping: In a separate bowl, toss the chopped strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Spoon the strawberry mixture evenly over the cheesecake filling.
- Make the Crumble Topping: In another bowl, mix flour, sugar, and ground cinnamon (if using). Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the strawberry layer.
- Bake the Bars: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set and the crumble topping is golden brown. Let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once cooled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper. Slice into squares and serve. Enjoy these delicious bars chilled or at room temperature.
serving and storage tips for Strawberry Crumble Cheesecake Bars:
Serving Tips:
- Chill Before Serving: For the best texture and flavor, allow the cheesecake bars to cool completely and then chill them in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before cutting. This helps the bars set and makes them easier to slice.
- Use a Sharp Knife: To get clean cuts and prevent the bars from sticking, use a sharp knife that has been dipped in warm water and wiped dry. This helps make neat slices without the filling smearing.
- Garnish for Extra Flair: Add a fresh strawberry on top of each bar or a light dusting of powdered sugar before serving to enhance the presentation and add a touch of elegance.
- Serve with Toppings: Consider serving the bars with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat.
- Pair with Beverages: These cheesecake bars pair well with a variety of beverages, such as a cup of coffee, a glass of milk, or even a refreshing iced tea.
Storage Tips:
- Keep Refrigerated: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 1 week. The cool temperature helps maintain the creamy texture of the cheesecake.
- Freezing for Later: If you want to store them for a longer period, freeze the bars. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer the bars to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Thawing: To enjoy frozen bars, transfer them to the refrigerator and let them thaw overnight. For a quicker thaw, you can leave them at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
- Avoid Excess Moisture: When storing in the refrigerator or freezer, make sure the container is tightly sealed to prevent moisture from affecting the texture of the crumble topping and cheesecake filling.
- Layer with Care: If you need to stack the bars for storage, place parchment paper or wax paper between layers to prevent them from sticking together.
variations of Strawberry Crumble Cheesecake Bars recipe:
1. Berry Medley Crumble Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients:
- Substitute strawberries with a mix of raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries.
Instructions:
- Follow the original recipe, but use a combination of berries in the topping. Adjust the sugar in the topping according to the sweetness of the berries used.
2. Lemon Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients:
- Add 2 tablespoons of lemon zest and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice to the cheesecake filling.
- Replace the crumble topping with a lemon-sugar crumble: mix ¾ cup flour, ½ cup sugar, ½ cup cold butter, and 1 tablespoon lemon zest.
Instructions:
- Prepare as directed, adding lemon zest and juice to the filling. Use the lemon crumble topping for a zesty twist.
3. Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients:
- Swirl ½ cup of melted chocolate (dark or milk) into the cheesecake filling before baking.
- Add chocolate chips or chunks to the crumble topping.
Instructions:
- Follow the original recipe, incorporating melted chocolate into the cheesecake filling and adding chocolate chips to the crumble.
4. Nutty Crumble Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients:
- Add ½ cup of finely chopped nuts (such as pecans, walnuts, or almonds) to the crumble topping.
Instructions:
- Mix the chopped nuts into the crumble topping before sprinkling it over the strawberries.
5. Salted Caramel Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients:
- Drizzle ¼ cup of salted caramel sauce over the cheesecake filling before adding the strawberry layer.
- Top with a sprinkle of sea salt along with the crumble topping.
Instructions:
- Prepare the bars as directed, adding caramel sauce before the strawberry layer and finishing with a sprinkle of sea salt on top.
6. Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients:
- Substitute 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract in the cheesecake filling with 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice or a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
Instructions:
- Follow the original recipe, adding pumpkin pie spice to the filling for a seasonal twist. You can also use a spiced crumble topping if desired.
7. Tropical Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients:
- Replace strawberries with chopped mangoes and pineapples.
- Add ½ cup of shredded coconut to the crumble topping.
Instructions:
- Use tropical fruits in place of strawberries and mix shredded coconut into the crumble topping for a tropical flavor.
8. Almond Joy Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients:- Add ½ cup of shredded coconut and ½ cup of chopped almonds to the crumble topping.
- Swirl in ¼ cup of chocolate syrup into the cheesecake filling.
Instructions:
- Incorporate shredded coconut and chopped almonds into the crumble, and swirl chocolate syrup into the cheesecake filling for a dessert inspired by Almond Joy candy bars.
9. Raspberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients:
- Replace strawberries with raspberries.
- Add 2 tablespoons of lemon zest to the raspberry layer.
Instructions:
- Follow the original recipe, substituting raspberries for strawberries and adding lemon zest to the raspberry layer for a refreshing flavor combination.
10. Peanut Butter Swirl Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients:
- Swirl ¼ cup of creamy peanut butter into the cheesecake filling.
Instructions:
- Add peanut butter to the cheesecake filling, swirling it gently before baking. The peanut butter adds a rich, nutty flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of the strawberries.
Conclusion:
These Strawberry Crumble Cheesecake Bars offer a delightful combination of creamy cheesecake, tangy strawberries, and a buttery crumble topping. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, they’re a sweet treat that’s sure to impress family and friends. Whether served at a gathering or enjoyed as a daily indulgence, these bars are a must-try recipe for dessert lovers. Try making them today and savor the delicious flavors!
FAQ’s about Strawberry Crumble Cheesecake Bars:
- What are Strawberry Crumble Cheesecake Bars? Strawberry Crumble Cheesecake Bars are a delicious dessert combining a graham cracker crust, a rich cheesecake filling, a layer of fresh strawberries, and a buttery crumble topping. They offer a delightful mix of creamy, fruity, and crunchy textures in every bite.
- Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh? Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Thaw them and drain any excess liquid before chopping and adding them to the bars. This helps prevent excess moisture, which can affect the texture of the bars.
- How do I know when the cheesecake bars are done baking? The bars are done when the cheesecake filling is set and the crumble topping is golden brown. The center of the cheesecake should be slightly firm but still have a slight jiggle. It will continue to set as it cools.
- Can I make the bars ahead of time? Absolutely! These bars can be made a day or two in advance. Just be sure to store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
- How should I store Strawberry Crumble Cheesecake Bars? Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months.
- How do I freeze and thaw the cheesecake bars? To freeze, place the bars on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. To thaw, move them to the refrigerator and let them defrost overnight. You can also let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
- Can I substitute the graham cracker crust with something else? Yes, you can use other types of crusts such as an Oreo crust, a shortbread crust, or a nut-based crust if you prefer. Adjust the ingredients and proportions based on the type of crust you choose.
- What can I use if I don’t have graham crackers for the crust? If you don’t have graham crackers, you can use crushed digestive biscuits, vanilla wafer cookies, or even pretzels for a different flavor profile. Just be sure to adjust the amount of sugar and butter accordingly.
- Can I make these bars without the crumble topping? Yes, you can omit the crumble topping if you prefer. The bars will still be delicious with just the graham cracker crust, cheesecake filling, and strawberry layer. For added texture, you might consider adding a sprinkle of nuts or a drizzle of chocolate.
- Can I add other fruits or mix-ins to the bars? Definitely! You can experiment with different fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or peaches. You can also mix in ingredients like chocolate chips, nuts, or even a swirl of fruit preserves into the cheesecake filling for added flavor and texture.