Strawberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe

When it comes to indulgent desserts, Strawberry Cheesecake Bars hold a special place in everyone’s heart. With their buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and vibrant strawberry topping, they are the perfect dessert for celebrations, picnics, or quiet evenings at home. This easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through creating a show-stopping treat that’s both delicious and visually stunning. In just a few simple steps, you’ll have a dessert that combines the richness of cheesecake with the freshness of strawberries, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Cooling Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: 3 hours
• Servings: 12 bars

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 14 graham crackers)
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup sour cream

For the Strawberry Topping:

• 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen strawberries
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until the mixture resembles wet sand. Firmly press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy using an electric mixer. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until fully incorporated. Pour the mixture over the prepared crust, spreading it evenly.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake Layer
Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Remove from the oven and let the cheesecake cool to room temperature. Then transfer it to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours to firm up.

Step 4: Prepare the Strawberry Topping
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine strawberries and sugar. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries soften and release their juices. For a thicker topping, stir in the cornstarch-water mixture and simmer for another 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.

Step 5: Assemble the Bars
Once the cheesecake has chilled, pour the cooled strawberry topping evenly over the cheesecake layer. Spread it out using a spatula to cover the surface. Using the parchment paper overhang, gently lift the entire cheesecake out of the pan. Cut into 12 evenly sized bars with a sharp knife, wiping the blade clean between cuts for neat edges.

Serving Suggestions
Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are best served cold, making them perfect for warm days or as a refreshing dessert after a hearty meal. Garnish with a sprig of mint or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of elegance. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.

These Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are not just a dessert; they’re an experience. The combination of textures—from the crunchy crust to the creamy filling and juicy strawberry topping—creates a harmony of flavors that’s simply irresistible. This recipe is ideal for both novice and experienced bakers, as it delivers impressive results with minimal effort. Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself, these bars are guaranteed to bring smiles to the table. Try them once, and they’ll become a regular in your dessert rotation. Enjoy the process, and most importantly, savor every bite of this delightful creation!