Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat that combines creamy cheesecake, fresh strawberries, and a crunchy graham cracker crust. These bars are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer picnic, a birthday party, or just a sweet indulgence at home. Their unique layers provide a burst of flavor and texture in every bite, making them an ideal dessert for cheesecake lovers.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Crust
• For the Cheesecake Filling
• For the Topping
• How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Crust
• Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling
• Step 4: Add Strawberries
• Step 5: Prepare the Crumble Topping
• Step 6: Assemble and Bake
• Step 7: Cool and Chill
• How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
• Serve with Fresh Whipped Cream
• Pair with Ice Cream
• Garnish with Mint Leaves
• Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce
• Serve with Extra Strawberries
• How to Perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
• Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
• Reheating Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I know when my Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are done?
• Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
• What is the best way to cut Strawberry Cheesecake Bars?
• Can I customize my Strawberry Cheesecake Bars?
• How should I serve Strawberry Cheesecake Bars?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these bars in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of creamy cheesecake and fresh strawberries creates an irresistible taste.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for holidays, gatherings, or as a special treat for yourself.
• Make Ahead Option: These bars can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
• Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant colors of the strawberries make these bars visually appealing.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Strawberry Cheesecake Bars, gather the essential tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×9-inch baking dish
• Parchment paper
• Medium bowl
• Large bowl
• Hand mixer
• Whisk
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Dish: A 9×9-inch baking dish is perfect for achieving the right thickness for your bars.
• Hand Mixer: This tool makes blending the cream cheese filling easy and ensures a smooth texture.
• Wire Rack: Cooling on a wire rack allows air circulation around the bars, preventing sogginess.

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 extends up the sides for easy removal later.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

In a medium bowl:
1. Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar.
2. Mix until it resembles wet sand.
3. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your lined baking dish.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl:
1. Using a hand mixer, beat together cream cheese, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
2. Spread this cheesecake filling evenly over the prepared crust.

Step 4: Add Strawberries

Top the cheesecake layer with freshly diced strawberries, spreading them evenly across the surface.

Step 5: Prepare the Crumble Topping

In another medium bowl:
1. Whisk together flour, brown sugar, and salt.
2. Stir in melted butter until you have a crumbly dough.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the strawberries. Bake in your preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until set.

Step 7: Cool and Chill

Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely for about an hour. Once cooled, place in the refrigerator for another hour before serving chilled.

Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Cheesecake Bars!

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 to elevate your experience with these delicious bars.

Serve with Fresh Whipped Cream

• Top each bar with a dollop of fresh whipped cream for added richness and a beautiful presentation.

Pair with Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream complements the cheesecake’s creamy texture, creating a heavenly combination.

Garnish with Mint Leaves

• Add a sprig of fresh mint on top for a pop of color and a refreshing flavor contrast.

Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce

• A light drizzle of chocolate sauce can enhance the sweetness and add an extra layer of indulgence.

Serve with Extra Strawberries

• Fresh, sliced strawberries on the side not only add freshness but also make for a lovely garnish.

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How to Perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

Achieving the perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Bars involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dessert turns out wonderfully every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother filling without lumps.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix the cheesecake filling just until smooth to avoid incorporating too much air, which can lead to cracks during baking.

• Press Firmly: When forming the crust, press it down firmly into the pan. This helps create a sturdy base that holds together well.

• Cool Gradually: Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature before chilling in the fridge. This helps set the texture perfectly.

• Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving. Chilled bars have better flavor and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

Strawberry Cheesecake Bars pair well with various side dishes that complement their flavors. Consider these options for your next dessert spread.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the cheesecake bars.
2. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These treats echo the strawberry theme and provide an elegant touch to your dessert table.
3. Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt, granola, and fruit can act as a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cheesecake bars.
4. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses offers savory bites that balance out the sweetness of your dessert.
5. Lemon Sorbet: The zesty flavor of lemon sorbet cleanses the palate and refreshes after enjoying rich cheesecake bars.
6. Coffee or Tea: A warm beverage complements dessert beautifully, enhancing flavors while providing a comforting finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Strawberry Cheesecake Bars, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final product. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping Room Temperature Ingredients: Using cold cream cheese or eggs can lead to a lumpy filling. Always let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Properly: Incorrect measurements can ruin the texture and flavor. Use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
• Overbaking the Bars: Baking too long can dry them out. Keep an eye on them and remove them when they are just set in the middle.
• Neglecting to Chill Properly: Serving these bars warm can result in a messy presentation. Allow sufficient chill time in the refrigerator for best results.
• Forgetting to Line the Pan: Skipping parchment paper can lead to sticking. Always line your baking dish to ensure easy removal of the bars.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Strawberry Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, place the bars on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on low power for 15-20 seconds until warm. Be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when my Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are done?

The bars are done when the edges are set, and the center has just a slight jiggle.

Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw and drain them well before using.

What is the best way to cut Strawberry Cheesecake Bars?

For clean cuts, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water. Wipe it clean between cuts.

Can I customize my Strawberry Cheesecake Bars?

Absolutely! You can add other fruits or mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts for variation.

How should I serve Strawberry Cheesecake Bars?

These bars are best chilled and served directly from the fridge for optimal flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Their creamy filling paired with fresh strawberries makes them a delightful treat that everyone will love. Feel free to customize these bars with different fruits or toppings to make them your own!