Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are the perfect dessert for any occasion. Imagining that first bite, with a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and luscious strawberry topping, makes my mouth water! Not only are they delicious, but they also capture the spirit of summer, thanks to the combination of fresh strawberries and rich cream cheese. Plus, this recipe is simple enough to make, so you can whip it up for a gathering or just a sweet treat at home. The good news? You don’t need to be an expert baker to create these delights. They come together easily, and the result is a show-stopping dessert that will impress your friends and family, leaving them asking for your secret! So, let’s get started on making these Strawberry Cheesecake Bars that will surely become a new favorite.

Jump to:

• Why This Recipe Works
• Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
• Ingredients
• Graham Cracker Crust Preparation
• Preheat and Prepare the Oven
• Create the Crust Mixture
• Press the Crust into the Pan
• Bake the Crust
• Strawberry Sauce Creation
• Prepare the Strawberries
• Cook the Strawberry Sauce
• Thicken the Sauce
• Cheesecake Batter Creation
• Beat the Cream Cheese
• Add Sugar and Scrape the Bowl
• Combine Remaining Ingredients
• Pour Over Crust
• Bake the Cheesecake
• Cool the Cheesecake
• Finishing Touches
• Add Strawberry Sauce
• Chill and Serve
• Serving Suggestions
• Tips for Success
• Variations
• Storage Tips
• FAQs
• More Easy Breakfast Recipes:
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why This Recipe Works

This strawberry cheesecake bars recipe strikes the perfect balance between creamy and fruity flavors while providing a satisfying crunch from the graham cracker crust. The combination of fresh strawberries, rich cream cheese, and a hint of vanilla creates a sumptuous dessert that captures the essence of summer. Plus, the straightforward preparation makes it accessible for both novice and seasoned bakers.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

These Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are not just dessert; they’re a celebration in every bite. With their buttery crust, velvety cheesecake filling, and luscious strawberry sauce, they deliver a delightful combination of textures and flavors. Perfect for gatherings, or a sweet treat at home, they promise to leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

• 2 cups Graham cracker crumbs (about 1 ½ packets of graham crackers)
• ¼ cup Brown sugar (packed, light or dark)
• 8 tablespoons Unsalted butter (melted)
• 3 cups Fresh strawberries (washed and cut into pieces)
• ½ cup White granulated sugar (for strawberry sauce)
• ½ tablespoon Lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon Water
• 1 tablespoon Cornstarch
• 16 oz Cream cheese (room temperature)
• ½ cup White granulated sugar (for cheesecake)
• ¼ cup Sour cream (room temperature)
• ⅛ cup Heavy cream (room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon Pure vanilla extract
• 2 Large eggs (room temperature)
• Vanilla Oreos (for decoration)

Graham Cracker Crust Preparation

Preheat and Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Prepare an 8×8-inch pan by spraying it with a non-stick baking spray, lining it with parchment paper, and spraying it again for added insurance.

Create the Crust Mixture

In a food processor, crush graham crackers until they resemble fine crumbs. Combine graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and melted butter in a bowl using a fork until well mixed.

Press the Crust into the Pan

Pour the crumb mixture into the prepared pan. Use your hands to press down firmly, then a measuring cup to further compact the crust.

Bake the Crust

Place the pan in the oven and bake the crust for 10 minutes. This step allows it to set and gain a slight golden color.

Strawberry Sauce Creation

Prepare the Strawberries

Take the fresh strawberries and cut them into quarters or medium-sized pieces.

Cook the Strawberry Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, water, and cornstarch. Be sure to mix well and heat until the mixture begins to boil.

Thicken the Sauce

Let the strawberry mixture cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens. Remove it from the heat and set aside to cool.

Cheesecake Batter Creation

Beat the Cream Cheese

Using an electric mixer, beat 16 oz of cream cheese for 1 minute on high until it becomes smooth.

Add Sugar and Scrape the Bowl

Add the ½ cup of white sugar and continue beating for another minute. Don’t forget to scrape the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is mixed well!

Combine Remaining Ingredients

Mix in sour cream, heavy cream, and vanilla extract on medium speed until creamy and lump-free. Scrape the bowl again, then add eggs one at a time while mixing on low. Be careful not to overmix.

Pour Over Crust

Carefully pour the cheesecake batter over the pre-baked crust, smoothing out the top with a spatula.

Bake the Cheesecake

Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the edges are set while the center has a slight jiggle.

Cool the Cheesecake

Turn off the oven, prop open the door, and let the cheesecake sit for 20 minutes. This allows it to cool gradually without cracking.

Finishing Touches

Add Strawberry Sauce

Once cooled to room temperature, pour the strawberry sauce over the cheesecake. Use a slotted spoon to drain excess liquid and spread the sauce evenly.

Chill and Serve

Wrap the cheesecake and chill for at least 6 hours or overnight. When chilled, lift the cheesecake out of the pan, remove parchment paper, and cut it into squares. Decorate with crushed Vanilla Oreos on top before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Strawberry Cheesecake Bars chilled with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also pair beautifully with fresh mint leaves for an added touch of elegance.

Tips for Success

• Ensure all your dairy ingredients are at room temperature for even mixing.
• Be cautious not to overbeat the eggs; this helps maintain that creamy texture.
• Letting the cheesecake cool gradually is key to preventing cracks.

Variations

• Swap out fresh strawberries for blueberries or raspberries for a different berry flavor.
• Add lemon zest to the cheesecake batter for a refreshing citrus twist.
• Experiment with gluten-free graham crackers for a gluten-free version.

Storage Tips

Store leftover cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for later enjoyment. Just thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! They can be made a day in advance and chilled overnight for the best texture.

2. How do I know when the cheesecake is done?
The edges should be set, while the center has a slight jiggle; it will firm as it cools.

3. Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh strawberries are preferable, but frozen can work; just make sure to thaw and drain them properly.

4. How do I cut my cheesecake bars cleanly?
Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat portions.

5. What can I do if my cheesecake cracks?
If it cracks, just top it with the strawberry sauce and Oreos for a delicious disguise!

Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, these Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are sure to delight. With their irresistible buttery crust, creamy center, and fresh strawberry topping, they offer a deliciously refreshing way to indulge. Enjoy creating and savouring this dessert that embodies the essence of summer, making every occasion special.

More Easy Breakfast Recipes:

• Banana Cake Roll
• Banana Nut Chia Pudding
• Pecan Caramel Banana Cake
• Banana Peanut Butter Cups

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