Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are the perfect dessert for any occasion. With a rich cheesecake filling layered with fresh strawberries over a buttery graham cracker crust, these bars offer a delightful treat in every bite. They’re easy to make and can be served at parties, picnics, or simply enjoyed as an indulgent snack at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: These bars come together quickly, making them ideal for both novice and experienced bakers.
- Flavorful Layers: The combination of creamy cheesecake, fresh strawberries, and a crunchy crumble topping creates a delicious flavor profile.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a casual family dinner, these bars fit right in.
- Chill and Serve: They can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge, making them a convenient dessert option.
- Versatile Topping Options: You can customize your Strawberry Cheesecake Bars with different fruits or toppings to suit your taste.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools on hand makes preparing Strawberry Cheesecake Bars a breeze. Below are the essential tools you’ll need to create this delightful dessert.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Hand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking dish (9×9-inch)
- Parchment paper
- Wire rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: These are essential for combining ingredients efficiently without mess.
- Hand mixer: This tool helps achieve smoothness in the cream cheese mixture quickly.
- Baking dish: A 9×9-inch baking dish provides the perfect size for even baking of your bars.
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 Strawberry Layer
- 2 cups (332 g) freshly diced strawberries
For the Crumble Topping
- 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 your oven to 350°F. Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring it covers up the sides.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
In a medium bowl, combine:
– 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
– 6 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
– ¼ cup granulated sugar
Mix until it resembles wet sand. Press this mixture into the lined baking dish evenly.
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, use a hand mixer to beat together:
– 2 packages cream cheese
– 2 large eggs
– ⅓ cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
Beat until smooth. Spread this cream cheese filling evenly over the crust you prepared earlier.
Step 4: Add Strawberries
Top the cheesecake layer with:
– 2 cups freshly diced strawberries
Distribute them evenly across the filling.
Step 5: Create the Crumble Topping
In another medium bowl, whisk together:
– ¾ cup all-purpose flour
– ¼ cup packed light brown sugar
– ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
Stir in:
– 5 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
Continue mixing until you form a crumbly dough.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake
Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the strawberries. Bake for 35–40 minutes or until set in the center.
Step 7: Cool Down
Once baked, transfer your dessert to a wire rack and let cool completely for about one hour. After cooling, place it in the refrigerator 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 serving suggestions to enhance your experience.
Classic Serving
- Serve chilled directly from the refrigerator for a refreshing treat.
Whipped Cream Topping
- Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra creaminess and sweetness.
Fresh Strawberries
- Garnish with whole or sliced fresh strawberries to complement the flavors.
Chocolate Drizzle
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the bars for a decadent touch.
Ice Cream Pairing
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert option.
Coffee or Tea
- Pair with a cup of coffee or tea to balance the sweetness of the bars.
How to Perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
To ensure your Strawberry Cheesecake Bars turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
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Use room temperature ingredients: Allow your cream cheese and eggs to reach room temperature for a smoother filling.
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Press crust firmly: Make sure to press the graham cracker crust firmly into the baking dish for a sturdy base.
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Avoid overbaking: Keep an eye on the baking time; remove the bars when they are set but slightly jiggly in the center.
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Cool completely: Let the bars cool completely at room temperature before chilling in the refrigerator to enhance texture and flavor.
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Slice with care: Use a sharp knife to cut clean slices after chilling for neat presentation.
Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Pairing side dishes with your Strawberry Cheesecake Bars can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some fantastic options:
-
Fruit Salad
A light and refreshing fruit salad adds a burst of flavor that complements the cheesecake bars beautifully. -
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries
These sweet treats mirror the strawberry theme and provide an elegant touch alongside your dessert. -
Cheese Platter
A selection of cheeses can provide a savory contrast to the sweetness of the cheesecake bars, enhancing overall enjoyment. -
Lemon Sorbet
The tartness of lemon sorbet offers a refreshing palate cleanser that pairs wonderfully with rich desserts like cheesecake bars. -
Pecan Pie Bites
These bite-sized delights add a nutty flavor that contrasts nicely with the creamy texture of cheesecake bars. -
Mini Cupcakes
Light and fluffy mini cupcakes serve as an excellent sweet addition without overwhelming your guests.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Strawberry Cheesecake Bars can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Overmixing the Filling: Mixing the cream cheese too much can incorporate excess air and lead to cracks. Mix just until smooth.
- Skipping Room Temperature Ingredients: Using cold ingredients can result in a lumpy filling. Always let your cream cheese and eggs come to room temperature.
- Neglecting to Line the Pan: Failing to line your baking dish can make removing the bars difficult. Always use parchment paper for easy release.
- Not Allowing Proper Cooling Time: Cutting into the bars before they’re fully cooled can lead to messy slices. Let them cool completely in the pan before refrigerating.
- Ignoring Fresh Strawberries: Using frozen strawberries may affect texture and flavor. Fresh strawberries yield a better taste and consistency.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Strawberry Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container.
- They can last in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezing Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
- Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
- They will keep well for up to 3 months.
Reheating Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place bars on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual bars on low power for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place a bar in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Strawberry Cheesecake Bars?
Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are dessert bars made with a creamy cheesecake filling, fresh strawberries, and a crumbly graham cracker crust.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
While fresh strawberries are recommended for optimal flavor, you can use frozen ones if necessary. Just ensure they are thawed and drained properly.
How do I customize Strawberry Cheesecake Bars?
You can add different toppings like chocolate drizzle or nuts. You could also try other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for variety.
How long do Strawberry Cheesecake Bars last?
When stored properly, they can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.
Final Thoughts
Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night at home, these bars are sure to impress. Feel free to customize them with different fruits or toppings to make them your own!
Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Strawberry Cheesecake Bars, a perfect dessert for any occasion. These bars feature a creamy cheesecake filling layered with fresh strawberries atop a buttery graham cracker crust. Easy to prepare and incredibly versatile, they can be served at parties, picnics, or simply enjoyed as an indulgent snack at home. With their beautiful presentation and delicious taste, these strawberry dessert bars are sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese (room temperature)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 cups fresh strawberries (diced)
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup light brown sugar (packed)
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined; press into the prepared dish.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth; spread over the crust.
- Top with diced strawberries evenly across the cheesecake layer.
- For the crumble topping, mix flour, brown sugar, salt, and melted butter in another bowl until crumbly; sprinkle over the strawberries.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until set; cool completely before refrigerating for at least an hour.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (80g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
