Sweet Strawberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe: A Slice of Heaven

Delectable and creamy strawberry cheesecake bars dance between layers of buttery graham cracker crust and silky smooth filling.

Sweet strawberries weave through this decadent dessert, creating a symphony of flavors that tantalize every taste bud.

Each bite promises a delightful balance of tartness and richness.

The recipe combines classic cheesecake elegance with simple, approachable techniques that anyone can master.

Vibrant red berries peek through the creamy white surface, making these bars as beautiful as they are delicious.

Prepare to wow your guests with this irresistible treat that transforms an ordinary afternoon into a sweet celebration.

Let’s unveil the magic of these mouthwatering strawberry cheesecake bars.

How to Store and Chill Bars Without Cracking

• Place cooled cheesecake bars in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. Refrigerate for up to 5 days, keeping them fresh and preventing flavor transfer.
• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months, maintaining texture and taste.
• Transfer frozen bars to the refrigerator overnight. Let them sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to restore optimal texture and softness.
• Warm bars gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds on low power. Alternatively, let them sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes to reach a pleasant serving temperature without compromising the creamy consistency.

Tasty Companions for Cheesecake Strawberry Bars

• A light, fruity Moscato wine complements the strawberry cheesecake bars perfectly. Its delicate sweetness matches the dessert's richness without overwhelming the delicate strawberry flavor.
• Steep a fragrant lavender Earl Grey tea to elevate the strawberry cheesecake experience. The floral notes of lavender dance beautifully with the strawberry's natural sweetness.
• Classic cold milk creates a simple yet perfect accompaniment to these creamy bars. The smooth, cool milk cuts through the richness of the cheesecake, providing a clean palate refresher.
• Uncork a chilled sparkling rosé for a celebratory twist on dessert. The wine's bubbles and light berry notes harmonize wonderfully with the strawberry cheesecake bars.

Delicious Spins to Shake Up the Cheesecake Layers

• Gluten-Free Delight: Replace graham cracker crumbs with almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs. Use gluten-free flour for the crumble topping to accommodate those with wheat sensitivities.
• Vegan Strawberry Squares: Swap cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese. Use coconut oil instead of butter and replace eggs with flax eggs or silken tofu. Select dairy-free alternatives to create a plant-based version.
• Low-Sugar Option: Substitute regular sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia. Reduce overall sugar content while maintaining delicious flavor. Choose fresh strawberries to add natural sweetness without extra processed sugars.
• Keto-Friendly Bars: Use almond flour for crust, replace sugar with erythritol, and incorporate cream cheese with full-fat content. Select low-carb strawberries sparingly to maintain ketogenic macronutrient ratios.

FAQs

• Are graham crackers necessary for the crust?

Yes, graham crackers provide a classic, sweet base that complements the creamy cheesecake filling. If you don’t have graham crackers, you can substitute with digestive biscuits or vanilla cookie crumbs.

• How do I know if my cream cheese is at the right temperature?

Room temperature cream cheese should feel soft when pressed and not cold or firm. Leave it out of the refrigerator for about 30-45 minutes before starting the recipe to ensure smooth mixing.

• Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Fresh strawberries work best for this recipe. Frozen strawberries release too much moisture and can make the bars soggy. If using frozen, thaw and thoroughly pat them dry before adding to the cheesecake.

• Why is chilling the bars important?

Chilling helps the cheesecake set properly, making it easier to cut clean, neat slices. It also allows the flavors to meld together and gives the bars a firmer, more pleasant texture.

Why Strawberry Cheesecake Bars Are Always a Crowd Favorite

• These strawberry cheesecake bars require minimal baking skills, making them perfect for both novice and experienced home bakers who want to impress friends and family.
• With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these bars deliver delightful dessert results without complicated techniques or lengthy preparation time.
• Ideal for potlucks, picnics, casual gatherings, or weekend treats, these bars offer a delicious twist on classic cheesecake that everyone can enjoy. The combination of creamy filling, fruity strawberries, and crumbly topping creates an irresistible flavor profile that appeals to all ages.
• These bars can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making them a convenient dessert option for busy home cooks who want to plan ahead without sacrificing taste or quality.

Everything You Need for Cheesecake Strawberry Bars

• Graham Cracker Crumbs: A classic base that provides a sweet and crunchy foundation for the cheesecake bars.
• Butter: Helps bind the crust ingredients and creates a rich, smooth texture.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness to the crust and enhances its overall flavor.

• Cream Cheese: The primary ingredient that gives the bars their creamy, tangy cheesecake texture.
• Eggs: Help bind the filling and provide structure to the cheesecake.
• Sugar: Balances the tanginess of the cream cheese and adds sweetness.
• Vanilla Extract: Introduces a warm, aromatic flavor to the filling.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor profile of the cheesecake.

• Strawberries: Fresh fruit that adds a burst of sweetness and vibrant color to the bars.
• Flour, Brown Sugar, Salt: Create a crumbly streusel topping that adds texture and depth of flavor.
• Butter: Helps bind the streusel topping and provides richness.

Steps to Make Creamy, Layered Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Station

Get your oven warmed up to 350°F.

Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, letting the edges hang over the sides for easy bar removal later.

Step 2: Create the Crumbly Crust

Combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and sugar in a bowl.

Mix until the texture looks like damp sand.

Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan using a measuring cup to create a smooth, even base.

Step 3: Whip Up the Creamy Filling

• Cream cheese
• Eggs
• Sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Salt

Beat everything until silky smooth.

Pro tip: Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature to avoid any pesky lumps.

Step 4: Add Fresh Strawberry Goodness

Pour the creamy filling over the crust.

Distribute diced strawberries evenly across the surface, gently pressing them into the mixture so they stay put during baking.

Step 5: Craft the Crumble Topping

• Flour
• Brown sugar
• Salt

Stir in melted butter until the mixture transforms into a delightful crumbly dough.

Sprinkle this golden topping evenly over the strawberries.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide the dish into the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes.

Look for a golden top and a set cheesecake center.

When you give the pan a gentle shake, the middle should be firm but not liquid.

Step 7: Chill and Slice

Allow the bars to cool on a wire rack for about an hour.

Transfer to the refrigerator and let them chill completely for at least another hour.

This crucial step ensures clean, beautiful slices that will make everyone swoon.

Tips for Cutting Smooth, Clean Slices

• Leave cream cheese at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before mixing to ensure a smooth, lump-free filling that blends beautifully.
• Use a measuring cup with a flat bottom to press graham cracker mixture evenly, creating a compact and sturdy base for your bars.
• Gently pat diced strawberries into the cheesecake filling to help them stay suspended and distribute evenly during baking.
• Chill bars completely in the refrigerator for at least an hour, then use a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean, picture-perfect cuts.
• Swap strawberries with other seasonal fruits like blueberries or raspberries for a delightful twist on the classic cheesecake bars.

Strawberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe

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• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Delightful Strawberry Cheesecake Bars offer a perfect blend of creamy richness and fruity sweetness. Crumbly graham cracker crust, silky cream cheese filling, and fresh strawberry topping create a heavenly dessert you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 2 packages (8 ounces/226 grams) cream cheese, room temperature
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 cups (332 grams) freshly diced strawberries
• 1 12 cups (126 grams) graham cracker crumbs, about 10-12 crushed graham cracker sheets

Crust and Topping Ingredients:

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 3/4 cup (94 grams) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (50 grams) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (50 grams) light brown sugar, packed

Seasoning and Flavoring Ingredients:

• 1/3 cup (67 grams) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven at 350°F and create a parchment paper sling in a 9×9-inch baking dish for effortless bar removal.
2. Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until it mimics moist sand. Compress the mixture into an even base using a measuring cup’s flat bottom.
3. Whip cream cheese, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until achieving a silky, lump-free consistency. Ensure cream cheese is room temperature for optimal smoothness.
4. Distribute cream cheese mixture over the crust, spreading uniformly across the surface.
5. Scatter fresh strawberry pieces across the cheesecake filling, gently pressing them to anchor within the mixture.
6. Create the crumble topping by blending flour, brown sugar, salt, and melted butter until it forms a rustic, textured crumb. Sprinkle evenly over strawberry layer.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes until the surface turns golden and the center sets with minimal wobble when gently shaken.
8. Allow bars to cool at room temperature for approximately one hour, then refrigerate for a minimum of one additional hour to facilitate clean, precise cutting.

Notes

• Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature to achieve a smooth, lump-free filling that blends perfectly.
• Use ripe, fresh strawberries for the most vibrant flavor and natural sweetness in your bars.
• Create cleaner cuts by chilling the cheesecake bars thoroughly before slicing with a sharp, clean knife.
• For a gluten-free version, swap graham cracker crumbs with almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs to accommodate dietary needs.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 18 g
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 60 mg