Strawberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe

If you’re smitten by the idea of combining juicy strawberries, creamy cheesecake, and a buttery graham cracker crust all in one bite, Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are your dream dessert. This crowd-pleasing treat features three luscious layers: a crisp, sweet base, a silken cream cheese filling, and a vibrant strawberry-studded crumb topping. Whether you’re planning a summer get-together or just need a midday pick-me-up, these bars deliver sunshine in every forkful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind Strawberry Cheesecake Bars lies in the perfect marriage of simple, fresh ingredients. Each one brings its own special sparkle to the layers, shaping everything from buttery crunch to fruity bursts and creamy richness.

• Graham cracker crumbs: These make a flavorful, gritty foundation that gives a nostalgic, toasty crunch in every bar.
• Unsalted butter: Melted butter moistens the crust and crumble, making them irresistibly rich and golden.
• Granulated sugar: Essential for adding sweetness to both the crust and the creamy filling—just enough to highlight the strawberries.
• Cream cheese: The star of the show! Softened for a velvety, tangy filling that’s the essence of classic cheesecake.
• Large eggs: Bind the filling, helping it set into that soft-yet-sliceable texture we adore.
• Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor of the cream cheese and brightens the entire dessert.
• Kosher salt: Enhances every layer by balancing sweetness and amplifying flavors.
• Freshly diced strawberries: The juicy, fragrant highlight of every bite—use ripe berries for the brightest flavor.
• All-purpose flour: Gives structure to the crumble topping, ensuring those pretty golden clusters.
• Light brown sugar: Adds a caramel-like depth to the topping, bringing out the natural sweetness of the strawberries.

How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, making sure there’s enough overhang to lift your Strawberry Cheesecake Bars out later. This extra step keeps everything tidy and ensures easy removal for perfect slices.

Step 2: Make the Graham Cracker Crust

In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix with a fork until the mixture feels like damp sand—this is your foundation. Press it firmly into the lined dish, reaching all the way into the corners, to create a sturdy and flavorful base.

Step 3: Blend the Cheesecake Filling

Grab a large bowl and a hand mixer (or stand mixer). Beat together the cream cheese, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and kosher salt until completely smooth. Don’t rush this part: silky-smooth filling is what transforms these bars into cheesecake heaven.

Step 4: Layer on the Strawberries

Spread the creamy cheesecake mixture evenly over your graham cracker crust. Next, scatter the freshly diced strawberries across the surface so each bar will get a generous pop of fruit in every slice.

Step 5: Whip Up the Crumble Topping

In another medium bowl, whisk together the flour, light brown sugar, and a pinch of kosher salt. Drizzle in the melted butter and stir until you have a crumbly, sandy dough. Sprinkle this evenly over your strawberries for the ultimate sweet and crunchy finish.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide your layered masterpiece into the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. You’re looking for a set, slightly golden top and edges that don’t jiggle. Once done, cool on a wire rack for at least an hour—then chill in the fridge for another hour to guarantee sharp, tidy slices.

How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

Garnishes

Dress up your Strawberry Cheesecake Bars with a dusting of powdered sugar, a dollop of freshly whipped cream, or a few delicate mint leaves. For extra strawberry flair, fan a thinly sliced berry on top of each bar just before serving.

Side Dishes

These bars are splendid on their own, but pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a handful of fresh mixed berries truly takes them over the top. If you’re serving them at brunch or a party, a crisp glass of sparkling rosé makes a fabulous companion.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the bars into bite-sized cubes and skewer them with strawberries for a cheerful dessert platter, or arrange them on a tiered cake stand to wow your guests. For a picnic vibe, individually wrap each bar in parchment paper and tie with twine for a sweet grab-and-go treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any Strawberry Cheesecake Bars leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh and creamy for up to 5 days in the refrigerator—perfect for sneaking a bite whenever cravings strike.

Freezing

Want to plan ahead or save some for later? Freeze these bars in a single layer until solid, then stack with parchment between layers in an airtight container. They thaw beautifully in the fridge overnight and are just as luscious after defrosting.

Reheating

While Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are best served chilled, you can let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving for a softer bite. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the cheese filling separate and the crust go soggy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Fresh strawberries are ideal for the juiciest bursts of flavor, but you can use frozen strawberries in a pinch. Just thaw and drain them well to prevent excess liquid from making the bars soggy.

Can I make Strawberry Cheesecake Bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply swap the graham crackers and all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free alternatives, and you’ll still get all the wonderful layers and flavors.

Do I need to use full-fat cream cheese?

For the creamiest, richest texture, full-fat cream cheese is best. Reduced-fat varieties will work in a pinch, but the filling might be slightly less velvety.

Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes, if you’re feeding a party, double all ingredients and use a 9×13-inch baking dish. You may need to adjust the bake time slightly—just keep an eye on the center for doneness.

How do I get neat, clean slices?

For perfectly tidy bars, chill the Strawberry Cheesecake Bars completely and clean your sharp knife between each cut. A hot knife (dipped in hot water and wiped dry) helps glide right through every layer.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s equal parts creamy, fruity, and crumbly, these Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are a must-bake. Whip them up for your next celebration or just to add a little bit of sweet cheer to your week—you’ll be glad you did!

Print