Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

Here’s a delicious recipe for Strawberry Cheesecake Bars! These bars feature a creamy cheesecake filling with a fresh strawberry topping on a buttery graham cracker crust. They’re perfect for a sweet treat or dessert to share!

Strawberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 graham crackers, crushed)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)

For the Strawberry Topping:

• 1 lb fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, to brighten the flavor)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust:

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
• In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
• Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking dish (or a similar size pan). Press it down evenly to form a compact crust.
• Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.

2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:

• In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
• Add the sugar and beat until well combined.
• Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
• If using, add the sour cream and mix until the filling is smooth.
• Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled graham cracker crust and spread it evenly.

3. Bake the Cheesecake Bars:

• Bake the cheesecake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. The edges should be lightly golden.
• Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for about 1 hour (this helps prevent cracking).
• Afterward, refrigerate the bars for at least 3 hours, or overnight, until fully chilled and set.

4. Make the Strawberry Topping:

• In a small bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice (if using). Toss the strawberries to coat them in the sugar and juice. Let them sit for 15-20 minutes to macerate and release their juices.
• After the cheesecake has chilled, spoon the macerated strawberries evenly over the top of the cheesecake bars.

5. Serve:

• Slice the cheesecake into squares and serve chilled.

These Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are creamy, sweet, and refreshing. The fresh strawberry topping adds a burst of flavor and pairs perfectly with the rich cheesecake filling and buttery crust. They’re ideal for a crowd or just a little indulgence! Enjoy!