Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Strawberry Cheesecake Bars combine a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth and creamy cheesecake layer, and a fresh, juicy strawberry topping. This dessert offers a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, making it an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing treat ideal for any occasion.
- Author: Lilly
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 50 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free graham crackers)
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tablespoons melted butter
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
Strawberry Topping
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional)
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture evenly into a greased 9×9 inch baking pan to form a solid base. Bake for about 10 minutes until set and lightly golden, then let it cool.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: Beat softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth and creamy. Add in the egg, vanilla extract, and sour cream or Greek yogurt, mixing just until fully incorporated to achieve a silky texture.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and spread evenly. Bake again at 350°F (175°C) until the center is set but still slightly jiggly, usually about 20-25 minutes. Avoid overbaking to keep the bars luscious.
- Add the Strawberry Topping: Mix chopped fresh strawberries with sugar and optional cornstarch for thickness. Spread the topping over the warm cheesecake layer once it has slightly cooled. Refrigerate the bars for at least a few hours to allow flavors to meld and bars to fully set before slicing.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth, lump-free filling.
- Beat ingredients just until combined to keep the filling light and airy.
- Chill bars thoroughly in the refrigerator for clean slices and enhanced flavor, preferably overnight.
- Use fresh strawberries for the best natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- Line your baking pan with parchment paper to make removal and slicing easier.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: strawberry cheesecake bars, cheesecake bars, berry dessert, easy cheesecake, no-fuss dessert, fruity cheesecake, summer dessert