Introduction: Strawberry cheesecake bars are the perfect dessert for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving something sweet. These bars combine the richness of cheesecake with the refreshing, fruity sweetness of strawberries. With their creamy texture and delicate sweetness, they offer a bite-sized twist on the classic cheesecake. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these strawberry cheesecake bars will quickly become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake filling:
2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 cup sour cream
For the strawberry topping:
2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Directions:
Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
Prepare the crust: In a medium-sized bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.
Make the cheesecake filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and flour until just combined. Finally, fold in the sour cream for a smooth, rich texture.
Assemble the bars: Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust, spreading it out evenly. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the center is set and only slightly jiggles. Turn off the oven and let the bars cool in the oven with the door slightly open for 10 minutes.
Cool completely: After 10 minutes, transfer the bars to the countertop and let them cool to room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the cheesecake to set properly.
Prepare the strawberry topping: While the bars are chilling, mix the chopped strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a bowl. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the strawberries to release their natural juices.
Serve: Once the cheesecake bars are fully set, slice them into squares and top each piece with a spoonful of the fresh strawberry topping. Serve chilled.
Serving and Storage Tips:
Serving: Serve these strawberry cheesecake bars as a delicious standalone treat or pair them with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Storage: Keep any leftover bars covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure they’re tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Variations:
