Looking for a creamy, sweet, and easy-to-make dessert? These Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are the answer! With a buttery graham cracker crust, a luscious cheesecake filling, and a fresh strawberry topping, these bars are perfect for parties, potlucks, or just satisfying your sweet tooth. Plus, they’re no-bake, so you don’t have to worry about turning on the oven. Let’s dive into this delicious and irresistible recipe!
Why You Will Love Making This Recipe
These Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are a winner for so many reasons. First, they’re incredibly delicious. The combination of a crunchy crust, creamy cheesecake, and fresh strawberry topping is simply irresistible.
Second, they’re easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a restaurant-quality dessert ready in no time. Plus, they’re no-bake, making them perfect for hot summer days or when you’re short on time.
Finally, they’re versatile. Serve them as a dessert for parties, pack them for picnics, or enjoy them as a sweet snack. They’re a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love!
Ingredients
 the Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
 the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy cream
 the Strawberry Topping:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries (hulled and sliced)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp cornstarch (mixed with 2 tbsp water)
Equipment Used
- 9Ă—9-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Saucepan
- Measuring cups and spoons
Directions & Instructions
- Make the Crust: In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9Ă—9-inch baking pan. Chill in the fridge while you prepare the filling.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until combined.
- Assemble the Bars: Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the chilled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Make the Strawberry Topping: In a saucepan, combine the strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the strawberries release their juices. Stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook for another 2-3 minutes until thickened. Let cool slightly.
- Add the Topping: Pour the strawberry topping over the cheesecake layer and spread evenly.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
- Serve: Cut into bars and enjoy!
Nutritional Information
These Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are a sweet and indulgent treat. Per serving (1 bar), it contains approximately:
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 3g
- Sugar: 18g
Prep Time and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (for topping)
- Chill Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
Variations
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
- Mixed Berry Topping: Replace strawberries with a mix of berries like blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries.
- Chocolate Twist: Add a layer of melted chocolate between the crust and cheesecake filling.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes! Thaw and drain them before using, and adjust the sugar to taste.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Store them in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Pro Tips By Elisa
- Use room temperature cream cheese for a smoother filling.
- Don’t overmix the cheesecake filling to keep it light and fluffy.
- Add a splash of lemon zest to the cheesecake filling for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Strawberry Cheesecake Bars as a dessert for parties, potlucks, or a sweet treat at home. They’re perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and impressing your guests!
Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Equipment
- 9x9-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Saucepan
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients Â
- For the Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy cream
- For the Strawberry Topping:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
InstructionsÂ
- Make the Crust: In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9x9-inch baking pan. Chill in the fridge while you prepare the filling.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until combined.
- Assemble the Bars: Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the chilled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Make the Strawberry Topping: In a saucepan, combine the strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the strawberries release their juices. Stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook for another 2-3 minutes until thickened. Let cool slightly.
- Add the Topping: Pour the strawberry topping over the cheesecake layer and spread evenly.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
- Serve: Cut into bars and enjoy!