Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are the perfect dessert for any gathering, bringing together a rich cheesecake filling, fresh strawberries, and a crunchy graham cracker crust. These bars make for an easy yet impressive treat that everyone will love. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a picnic, or simply indulging yourself, these Strawberry Cheesecake Bars deliver sweet satisfaction in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have these delicious bars ready in no time.
- Fresh Flavors: The combination of creamy cheesecake with fresh strawberries creates a delightful taste experience that’s hard to resist.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual weekday dessert, these bars fit right in.
- Make Ahead: Prepare them in advance and chill them in the fridge for a convenient dessert option.
- Crowd Pleaser: These bars are sure to impress your guests and leave them asking for the recipe!
Tools and Preparation
To create these delicious Strawberry Cheesecake Bars, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and ensures great results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×9-inch baking dish
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Hand mixer
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×9-inch baking dish: This size is perfect for achieving the right thickness of your cheesecake bars.
- Parchment paper: Lining your dish makes it easy to remove the bars without sticking.
- Mixing bowls: Having separate bowls helps keep ingredients organized and ensures thorough mixing.
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 oven to 350°F. Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing it to extend up the sides.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until it resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the lined baking dish.
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, use a hand mixer to beat together cream cheese, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and kosher salt until smooth. Spread this mixture evenly over the prepared crust.
Step 4: Add Strawberries
Top the cheesecake filling with freshly diced strawberries, distributing them evenly across the surface.
Step 5: Prepare Crumble Topping
In another medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, and kosher salt. Stir in melted butter until a crumbly dough forms.
Step 6: Add Topping
Sprinkle this crumble topping evenly over the layer of strawberries.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in preheated oven for 35–40 minutes or until set in the center.
Step 8: Cool and Chill
Transfer to a wire rack and let cool completely for about an hour. Then refrigerate until chilled for another hour before serving. Enjoy your refreshing 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 creative serving suggestions to elevate your experience.
Enjoy with Fresh Whipped Cream
- Top each bar with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for added richness and a creamy texture.
Pair with Vanilla Ice Cream
- Serve the bars alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the tartness of the strawberries with sweet, creamy goodness.
Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce
- A drizzle of chocolate sauce on top adds an indulgent touch that contrasts beautifully with the cheesecake flavor.
Garnish with Mint Leaves
- Fresh mint leaves not only add color but also provide a refreshing taste that complements the strawberry flavor.
Accompany with a Berry Compote
- A spoonful of berry compote can enhance the fruitiness and add extra moisture to each bite.
Serve on a Festive Platter
- Arrange the bars on a colorful platter for parties or gatherings, making them visually appealing and easy to serve.
How to Perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Creating the perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Bars requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow cream cheese and eggs to come to room temperature for a smoother filling without lumps.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when preparing the filling; overmixing can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks during baking.
- Chill Before Serving: Letting the bars chill completely enhances their texture and makes them easier to cut.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste your strawberries before adding sugar; if they are sweet, you may need less sugar in the filling.
- Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness for up to 3 days.
- Experiment with Flavors: Try adding lemon zest or almond extract for a unique twist on traditional flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Strawberry Cheesecake Bars pair well with various side dishes that complement their rich flavor. Here are some excellent options:
-
Fresh Fruit Salad
A medley of seasonal fruits brings brightness and freshness, balancing out the sweetness of the bars. -
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries
These classic treats echo the strawberry theme while adding an elegant touch. -
Mini Cheesecakes
Offer mini cheesecakes as an alternative dessert option, giving guests variety at your gathering. -
Caramelized Bananas
The warm, caramel flavors of bananas pair beautifully with chilled cheesecake bars for contrast. -
Nutty Granola
A handful of crunchy granola adds texture and makes for an interesting pairing alongside each bar. -
Coffee or Espresso
A cup of coffee or espresso serves as a perfect beverage companion, enhancing the dessert experience. -
Lemon Sorbet
This refreshing sorbet provides a tart contrast that cleanses the palate between bites of rich cheesecake. -
Cheese Platter
A selection of cheeses offers savory notes that balance out the sweetness of the Strawberry Cheesecake Bars.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Strawberry Cheesecake Bars can be a delightful experience, but certain mistakes may hinder your results. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Always ensure that your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature. This helps to achieve a smooth filling and better texture.
- Skipping the Cooling Time: Allowing the bars to cool completely before refrigerating is crucial. This prevents condensation from forming, which could make your bars soggy.
- Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science, so use precise measurements for the graham cracker crumbs and sugar. A kitchen scale can help with accuracy.
- Overmixing the Filling: Mixing too much can incorporate excess air into the cream cheese mixture. Beat just until everything is combined for a denser cheesecake layer.
- Ignoring Baking Times: Keep an eye on your bars as they bake. The center should be set but slightly jiggly; overbaking can lead to dry bars.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Strawberry Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container.
- They will keep well for up to 5 days in the fridge.
Freezing Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
- Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm bars for about 10 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 15-20 seconds until warmed to your liking.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for even warming.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making Strawberry Cheesecake Bars.
What makes Strawberry Cheesecake Bars different from regular cheesecake?
Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are portable and easy to serve as they come in bar form, while traditional cheesecake typically comes in slices from a round pan.
Can I use frozen strawberries instead?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries; just make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to avoid excess moisture.
How do I customize my Strawberry Cheesecake Bars?
You can add flavors like lemon zest or mix in chocolate chips for a twist. Toppings like whipped cream or extra fresh strawberries also enhance flavor.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free crumbs, and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Final Thoughts
Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are not only delicious but also versatile. You can enjoy them at parties, picnics, or family gatherings. Feel free to customize them by adding different fruits or flavors to suit your taste!
Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful taste of Strawberry Cheesecake Bars, a perfect dessert that combines creamy cheesecake, fresh strawberries, and a crunchy graham cracker crust. These bars are not only easy to make but also impress at any gathering, whether it’s a birthday celebration or a casual picnic. With their rich flavor and vibrant presentation, each bite offers the sweet satisfaction everyone craves. Prepare them ahead of time for a convenient treat that is sure to become a favorite among friends and family.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 packages cream cheese (8 ounces each, room temperature)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups fresh strawberries (diced)
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup light brown sugar (packed)
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined. Press into the bottom of the baking dish.
- In another bowl, beat cream cheese, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. Spread over the crust.
- Top with diced strawberries evenly.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and salt; stir in melted butter until crumbly. Sprinkle over strawberries.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes or until set in the center. Cool completely before refrigerating for an hour.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (80g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
