There’s something truly special about Strawberry Cheesecake Bars. They seamlessly blend the creamy goodness of cheesecake with the vibrant essence of strawberries, creating a dessert that’s both refreshing and indulgent. These bars are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking to treat yourself. Their visually appealing layers and delightful flavors will have your friends and family reaching for seconds – or even thirds!
Why We Love This Strawberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Every bite of Strawberry Cheesecake Bars speaks of joy and satisfaction. You cherish the simplicity of the recipe, where just a handful of ingredients come together to create something magical. The combination of rich cream cheese, a buttery graham cracker crust, and the luscious strawberry puree makes this dessert irresistible. Plus, it’s a treat that’s not just about taste; it’s also about the experience of making it. You’ll find joy in the process, whether it’s mixing the ingredients, pouring the filling, or watching them bake in the oven.
You can feel good about serving these bars at any time. They’re perfect for potlucks, birthday parties, or just a sunny afternoon with friends. Their delightful flavor and beautiful presentation will impress anyone who tastes them. Keep reading to discover the ingredient list, directions, and expert tips to ensure your creation turns out perfectly every time!
Ingredients for Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
To make your delicious Strawberry Cheesecake Bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Frozen sliced strawberries: 2 cups (thawed and pureed)
- Granulated sugar: 3 tablespoons (for the strawberry topping) + 1 ½ cups (for the cheesecake filling)
- Corn starch: 1 tablespoon
- Water: 1 tablespoon
- Graham cracker crumbs: 2 ½ cups
- Unsalted butter: 6 tablespoons (melted)
- Cream cheese: 3 packages (room temperature)
- Eggs: 3
- Sour cream or plain yogurt: 1/3 cup
- Vanilla extract: 2 teaspoons
- Pinch of salt: Just a small amount to enhance flavor
With these ingredients at hand, you are well on your way to creating a delightful dessert that everyone will love.
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Bars Directions
Making strawberry cheesecake bars is straightforward and enjoyable. Follow these instructions to create a dessert everyone will rave about!
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Topping
Start by taking your medium saucepan and combine the thawed strawberry puree with 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar. This mixture will create a delectable topping. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth. Then, stir this mixture into the strawberry puree in your saucepan. Over medium heat, cook the mixture, stirring continuously until it thickens. This usually takes a few minutes. Once thickened, remove it from heat and let it cool until it reaches room temperature. This topping will add a sweet and fruity layer to your cheesecake bars.
Step 2: Preheat Your Oven
As your strawberry topping cools, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If you prefer an easy clean-up later, it’s a great idea to line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or foil. This will help you lift the bars out later.
Step 3: Make the Crust
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter. Mix well until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan. Bake the crust for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until it feels slightly dried. Once done, allow it to cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.
Step 4: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, take your room temperature cream cheese and beat it until it is completely smooth with no lumps remaining. Gradually add 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar and continue mixing until thoroughly combined. Now, add in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is well incorporated before adding the next. Add the sour cream or yogurt, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix on low speed until just combined to avoid overmixing.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Now it’s time for the fun part! Pour the creamy cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in your baking dish. Then, drop spoonfuls of the strawberry topping onto the cheesecake filling. Use a knife or a skewer to gently swirl the strawberry mixture into the cheesecake, creating a marbled effect.
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are set and the center is slightly wobbly but not liquid.
Step 6: Cool and Refrigerate
Once baked, remove the cheesecake bars from the oven and let them cool completely at room temperature. After cooling, cover the baking dish and refrigerate for at least 6 to 8 hours – overnight is even better! Chilling allows all the flavors to meld beautifully and makes cutting easier.
How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
When you’re ready to serve, take the chilling cheesecake bars out of the fridge. Using the edges of the parchment paper or foil, carefully lift them out of the pan and place them on a cutting board. Cut into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference. You might choose to garnish each piece with a fresh strawberry or a drizzle of strawberry sauce for a lovely presentation.
These bars are delicious on their own, but you can also pair them with whipped cream for extra creaminess or serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible dessert experience. Whether you’re sharing with friends or enjoying them solo, these bars will surely brighten your day.
Expert Tips for the Perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Achieving the perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Bars can be a breeze, especially with a few expert tips under your belt.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing. Cold cream cheese can lead to lumps in your filling.
Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cheesecake as it bakes. It’s better to have a slightly underbaked center than to overbake, which can result in a dry texture.
Chill Thoroughly: Patience is key! Allowing your cheesecake bars to chill for the recommended time ensures they set properly and achieve the right texture.
Add Extra Flavor: You can enhance the flavor by adding a teaspoon of lemon juice or zest to the cheesecake filling. It adds a refreshing zing that pairs beautifully with strawberries.
Make Ahead: Consider making these bars a day in advance. They often taste better the next day as the flavors develop when they sit.
How to Store Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Proper storage is essential to maintaining the flavor and texture of your Strawberry Cheesecake Bars. After they have chilled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can typically last for about 4 to 5 days if kept properly sealed.
If you want to keep them for a longer period, consider freezing them. To do so, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.
Variations of Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
While the classic Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are fabulous on their own, sometimes you may want to experiment with different flavors and add-ins. Here are some exciting variations you can try:
Mixed Berry Version: Add a mix of berries, such as blueberries and raspberries, alongside strawberries. This gives a more complex flavor and a burst of color.
Chocolate Swirl: For chocolate lovers, consider melting some dark chocolate and swirling it into your cheesecake filling along with the strawberry puree for a delicious twist.
Nut Crust: Swap out graham crackers for crushed nuts or a combination of nuts and oats for a gluten-free crust that adds a unique twist in flavor and texture.
Citrus Infusion: Add a bit of freshly grated orange or lemon zest into the cheesecake filling for a refreshing citrus element that complements the strawberries.
No-Bake Version: If you prefer not to bake, try a no-bake version by chilling your cheesecake mixture for a while in the fridge and then layering it with the strawberry topping.
FAQ about Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
What are Strawberry Cheesecake Bars?
Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are a delicious dessert that combines a creamy cheesecake filling with a refreshing strawberry topping, all on a buttery graham cracker crust. They are easy to make and perfect for sharing!
How long do Strawberry Cheesecake Bars last?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, Strawberry Cheesecake Bars can last for about 4 to 5 days. If you freeze them, they can stay good for up to 2 months.
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh strawberries. Just make sure to mash or puree them to create a similar consistency to thawed frozen strawberries.
Can I make Strawberry Cheesecake Bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, they often taste better after a day in the fridge. Make them a day ahead to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Are there any gluten-free options for Strawberry Cheesecake Bars?
Yes, you can use gluten-free graham crackers or make a nut-based crust to create a delicious gluten-free version of this dessert.
Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Equipment
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Medium Saucepan
- Mixing Bowls:
- Stand Mixer
Ingredients
- 2 cups frozen sliced strawberries thawed and pureed
- 3 Tbsp granulated sugar for the strawberry topping
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar for the cheesecake filling
- 1 Tbsp cornstarch
- 1 Tbsp water
- 2 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 6 Tbsp unsalted butter melted
- 3 packages cream cheese room temperature
- 3 large eggs
- 1/3 cup sour cream or plain yogurt
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt to enhance flavor
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the thawed strawberry puree with 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water until smooth, then stir into the strawberry mixture. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously until thickened. Let cool to room temperature.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or foil for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, then let cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add 1 ½ cups of sugar and mix until combined. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Mix in sour cream or yogurt, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until just combined.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust. Drop spoonfuls of the strawberry topping onto the filling and swirl gently with a knife to create a marbled effect.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the edges are set and the center is slightly wobbly. Let cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 6 to 8 hours or overnight.
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