Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are the perfect dessert for any occasion. With a creamy cheesecake filling layered over fresh strawberries and a delicious graham cracker crust, these bars offer a delightful sweet treat in every bite. Their combination of textures and flavors makes them a standout dessert that can be served at parties, picnics, or simply enjoyed at home.

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, sweet strawberries, and crunchy crumble creates an irresistible taste.
• Versatile Dessert: These bars are perfect for any gathering—birthdays, holidays, or just a casual family dinner.
• Make Ahead Option: You can prepare them ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
• Perfectly Chilled: Enjoying these Strawberry Cheesecake Bars cold adds to their refreshing appeal, especially on warm days.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making your Strawberry Cheesecake Bars, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×9-inch baking dish
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Hand mixer
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×9-inch baking dish: The perfect size for achieving the right thickness in your bars.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes it easier to lift the bars out after baking.
• Hand mixer: Ensures a smooth and creamy cheesecake filling without any lumps.

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, making sure it goes up the sides.

Step 2: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

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

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling

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

Step 4: Add Fresh Strawberries

Top the cheesecake layer with diced strawberries evenly across the surface.

Step 5: Create Crumble Topping

In another medium bowl:
1. Whisk together flour, light brown sugar, and kosher salt.
2. Stir in melted butter until you form a crumbly dough.
3. Sprinkle this crumble topping over the strawberries evenly.

Step 6: Bake Your Bars

Place in the preheated oven:
– Bake for about 35-40 minutes or until set in the center.

Step 7: Cool Down

After baking:
1. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely for about 1 hour.
2. Once cool, transfer to the refrigerator until chilled for an additional hour before serving.

Enjoy your chilled Strawberry Cheesecake Bars!

How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet night in, these bars can be served to please everyone.

Pair with Fresh Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of fresh whipped cream on top for an extra creamy texture that complements the cheesecake filling perfectly.

Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce

• A drizzle of chocolate sauce adds a rich flavor contrast to the sweet strawberry topping, making each bite even more indulgent.

Serve with Vanilla Ice Cream

• Pairing these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a deliciously cold and creamy experience that’s perfect for summer days.

Garnish with Mint Leaves

• Fresh mint leaves not only add color but also provide a refreshing aroma that enhances the overall taste of the dessert.

Enjoy with Coffee or Tea

• Serving these bars alongside a cup of coffee or tea creates a wonderful balance, making for an enjoyable afternoon treat.

Create Mini Dessert Plates

• Cut the bars into smaller pieces and serve them on a platter with assorted fruits. This makes for an appealing and shareable dessert option.

Pin for later!

How to Perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

To ensure you achieve the best results when making your Strawberry Cheesecake Bars, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing your cream cheese and eggs to room temperature helps create a smooth filling without lumps.

• Press Crust Firmly: Make sure to press the graham cracker crust firmly into the baking dish. This helps it hold together well once baked.

• Don’t Overmix: When mixing the cheesecake filling, avoid overmixing. This keeps the texture creamy and prevents air bubbles from forming.

• Cool Completely Before Chilling: Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature before placing them in the refrigerator. This ensures they set properly.

• Use Fresh Strawberries: Opt for ripe, fresh strawberries for the best flavor and texture in your dessert bars.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

Strawberry Cheesecake Bars can be complemented by several side dishes that enhance their flavors and provide variety to your dessert spread. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits like berries, melons, and citrus adds brightness and freshness to your meal.

2. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These sweet treats echo the strawberry theme while adding an elegant touch to your dessert table.

3. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, such as brie or goat cheese, provides a savory contrast that balances out the sweetness of the bars.

4. Pecan Pie Bites: These mini pies offer nutty flavors that pair beautifully with strawberry cheesecake.

5. Coconut Macaroons: The chewy texture and sweetness of macaroons complement the creamy cheesecake bars perfectly.

6. Caramel Sauce Dipping Bowl: Offer caramel sauce for dipping; its rich sweetness pairs wonderfully with strawberries.

7. Lemon Sorbet: The tartness of lemon sorbet brings a refreshing contrast to the richness of cheesecake bars.

8. Mini Cupcakes: Serve an assortment of mini cupcakes for added variety; flavors like vanilla or lemon would work well alongside strawberry cheesecake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Strawberry Cheesecake Bars can be simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin your dessert. Here are some tips to help you succeed.

• Using cold ingredients: Cold cream cheese and eggs can lead to lumps in your cheesecake filling. Always use room temperature ingredients for a smooth texture.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can introduce too much air, causing your bars to crack. Mix until just combined for best results.
• Skipping the chilling step: Cutting into the bars before they cool can make them messy. Allow them to chill completely in the refrigerator for a clean slice.
• Not lining the baking dish: Failing to line your baking dish can result in sticking. Use parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.
• Ignoring baking times: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your bars as they bake. Check for a slight jiggle in the center when they’re done.

Pin for later!

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 and then in aluminum foil.
• Frozen bars will maintain quality for up to 3 months.

Reheating Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds; check frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place bars on a pan over low heat, covering with a lid for even warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Strawberry Cheesecake Bars, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries.

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

You can use frozen strawberries, but make sure they’re thawed and drained well before adding them to the recipe.

How long do Strawberry Cheesecake Bars need to chill?

After baking, let the bars cool at room temperature for about an hour, then chill them in the refrigerator for at least another hour before serving.

Can I customize my Strawberry Cheesecake Bars?

Absolutely! You can add other fruits like blueberries or raspberries or even mix in chocolate chips for extra flavor.

What’s the best way to cut these bars?

For clean cuts, use a sharp knife and wipe it between slices. This prevents smearing of the cheesecake filling.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are not only delicious but also versatile enough to adapt with various toppings or mix-ins. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving something sweet, these bars offer joy in every bite. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and explore your own creative variations!