Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are a delightful dessert that combines creamy cheesecake with fresh strawberries atop a buttery graham cracker crust. These bars are perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to summer picnics, and they offer a deliciously sweet treat in every bite. Each layer harmonizes beautifully, making these Strawberry Cheesecake Bars a standout favorite among dessert lovers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, these bars come together quickly, making them perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
- Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of cream cheese and fresh strawberries creates a rich and refreshing flavor that will impress everyone.
- Versatile Dessert: Suitable for birthdays, holidays, or casual get-togethers, these bars fit any occasion perfectly.
- Make Ahead Option: You can prepare these Strawberry Cheesecake Bars in advance, allowing you to enjoy your time with guests without last-minute stress.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking, gather the essential tools needed for this recipe. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×9-inch baking dish
- Parchment paper
- Medium mixing bowl
- Large mixing bowl
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Wire rack
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×9-inch baking dish: This size is ideal for creating the perfect thickness of cheesecake bars.
- Parchment paper: It prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy after baking.
- Hand mixer or stand mixer: Ensures that the cream cheese filling is smooth and fluffy.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 ½ cups (126 g) graham cracker crumbs (about 10-12 crushed graham cracker sheets)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese (room temperature)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- ⅓ cup (67 g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
For the Topping
- 2 cups (332 g) freshly diced strawberries
- ¾ cup (94 g) all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup (50 g) light brown sugar (packed)
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring it comes up the sides of the dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until it resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the lined baking dish to form an even crust layer.
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, using a hand mixer, beat together cream cheese, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and kosher salt until the mixture is smooth. Spread this cream cheese filling evenly over the prepared crust.
Step 4: Add Strawberries
Carefully top the cheesecake filling with freshly diced strawberries, spreading them out evenly.
Step 5: Prepare the Crumble Topping
In another medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, and kosher salt. Stir in melted butter until a crumbly dough forms. Sprinkle this crumble topping evenly over the strawberries.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until set in the center.
Step 7: Cool and Chill
Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely for about one hour. Once cooled, transfer to the refrigerator to chill for another hour before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Cheesecake Bars chilled!
How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions that will enhance their flavor and presentation.
Serve with Fresh Whipped Cream
- Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top for a light and airy contrast to the rich cheesecake filling.
Pair with Vanilla Ice Cream
- Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy, indulgent treat that complements the strawberries beautifully.
Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce
- A drizzle of warm chocolate sauce adds a decadent touch and balances the tartness of the strawberries.
Garnish with Mint Leaves
- A few fresh mint leaves not only beautify the plate but also provide a refreshing flavor that pairs well with the cheesecake bars.
Enjoy with Fruit Salad
- Create a vibrant fruit salad to serve on the side, adding extra freshness and texture to your dessert experience.
How to Perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
To achieve the best results when making Strawberry Cheesecake Bars, consider these helpful tips:
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth batter without lumps.
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Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to maintain a light and fluffy texture in your cheesecake filling.
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Press Firmly: When creating the graham cracker crust, press it firmly into the pan to prevent it from crumbling when cut.
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Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely before chilling them in the refrigerator for optimal set-up and texture.
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Slice with Care: Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean cuts, ensuring each bar retains its shape when served.
Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are delicious on their own, but pairing them with the right side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:
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Mixed Berry Compote: A warm compote made from assorted berries adds sweetness and an extra fruity layer.
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Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: These sweet treats complement the flavors in the bars and make for an elegant presentation.
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Lemon Sorbet: The refreshing citrus flavor provides a nice contrast to the richness of the cheesecake bars.
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Coffee or Espresso: A cup of coffee or espresso enhances dessert flavors while balancing sweetness.
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Pistachio Crumble: A nutty crumble adds crunchiness, enhancing both flavor and texture when enjoyed alongside cheesecake bars.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel sauce over your bars creates an extra layer of sweetness that’s hard to resist.
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Coconut Whipped Cream: For a dairy-free option, coconut whipped cream brings tropical flair that pairs perfectly with strawberries.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Strawberry Cheesecake Bars can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature. This ensures a smooth filling without lumps.
- Not Pressing the Crust Firmly: When making the graham cracker crust, press it down firmly. A loose crust can crumble when serving.
- Overbaking the Bars: Keep an eye on baking time. Overbaking can lead to dry cheesecake bars. They should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Skipping the Cooling Time: Be patient! Let the bars cool completely before refrigerating. This helps firm them up for easy slicing.
- Forgetting to Line the Pan: Always line your baking dish with parchment paper. It makes removing the bars much easier.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Strawberry Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container.
- They can last up to 4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
- Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
- You can freeze them for up to 3 months.
Reheating Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil, reheating until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat a single bar on medium power for about 20-30 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid, and heat for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Strawberry Cheesecake Bars.
How do I prevent my Strawberry Cheesecake Bars from cracking?
To prevent cracks, avoid overmixing your filling and make sure to bake at an even temperature. Cooling slowly can also help.
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Just make sure they are thawed and drained well before adding them to the bars.
How do I customize my Strawberry Cheesecake Bars?
You can add different fruits like blueberries or raspberries! Swapping vanilla extract with lemon zest also adds a refreshing twist.
What is the best way to slice my Strawberry Cheesecake Bars?
For clean slices, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water. Wipe the knife between cuts for neat edges.
Final Thoughts
Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are not only delicious but also versatile, making them perfect for any gathering or celebration. Feel free to customize with your favorite fruits or toppings. Try this recipe today and enjoy a sweet treat that everyone will love!
Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately 9 bars 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful taste of Strawberry Cheesecake Bars, a perfect dessert that combines rich and creamy cheesecake with fresh strawberries, all resting on a buttery graham cracker crust. This irresistible treat is suitable for any occasion—be it family gatherings, summer picnics, or casual get-togethers. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of flavors that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings. Easy to prepare and versatile, these bars can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy quality moments without the last-minute rush.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 packages cream cheese (16 ounces total)
- 2 large eggs
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups fresh strawberries (diced)
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup light brown sugar (packed)
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until it resembles wet sand. Press firmly into the bottom of the prepared dish.
- In a large bowl, beat together cream cheese, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. Spread over the crust.
- Evenly distribute diced strawberries on top of the cheesecake filling.
- For the crumble topping, whisk together flour, brown sugar, and salt in a medium bowl; stir in melted butter until crumbly. Sprinkle over strawberries.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until set in the center. Cool completely on a wire rack before chilling in the refrigerator for one hour.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
