Strawberry Cheesecake Bars: A Sweet Slice of Happiness
There’s a reason strawberries and cheesecake are a timeless pairing. The tangy richness of creamy cheesecake meets the bright, sweet freshness of strawberries in a dessert that feels indulgent yet comforting. Whether it’s a special celebration or just a regular Tuesday, these Strawberry Cheesecake Bars will bring a smile to your face. Additionally, easy to make, easy to serve, and impossible to resist—let’s dive into this sweet slice of happiness.
Why You’ll Love Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
These bars combine the best of both worlds: the elegance of a classic strawberry cheesecake and the convenience of a grab-and-go dessert. Here’s why this recipe stands out:
- Effortless Elegance: Perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike.
- Customizable: Additionally, swap ingredients to fit your preferences or dietary needs.
- Great for Any Occasion: From casual snacks to party desserts, these bars shine anywhere.
- Mess-Free Serving: Moreover, pre-cut bars make serving a breeze.
- Irresistible Flavor: Creamy cheesecake with strawberry swirls? Say no more.
Ingredients of Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful dessert:
- 🍪 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 🧈 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 🧂 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 🧀 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 🍶 1/2 cup sour cream
- 🥚 2 large eggs
- 🍭 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 🍦 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 🍓 1 cup strawberry preserves
- 🍓 Fresh strawberries, sliced (for garnish)
- 🍦 Whipped cream (optional, for serving)
Necessary Tools for Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Gather these tools for a smooth baking experience:
- 🥄 Mixing bowls
- 🥣 8-inch square baking pan
- 📜 Parchment paper
- 🍴 Electric mixer or whisk
- 🍰 Spatula for spreading
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
Love to experiment? Here are some creative swaps and additions:
- Swap graham crackers for digestive biscuits or Oreo crumbs for a chocolaty base.
- Moreover, use a nut-based crust like almond meal and butter for a gluten-free option.
- Also, add a splash of lemon juice or orange zest for a citrusy kick.
- Fold in mini chocolate chips or sprinkle the top with crushed nuts for extra texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
Start by setting your oven to 325°F (165°C). Then, line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
2. Make the Crust
Then, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup sugar in a bowl. Mix well, then press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan to form the crust. Next, take for 10 minutes, then let cool.
3. Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup sugar with an electric mixer until smooth. Once smooth, add the sour cream, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix just until combined, ensuring a creamy consistency.
4. Assemble
Subsequently, pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Then, dollop strawberry preserves over the filling and use a knife to swirl them into beautiful patterns
5. Bake
Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the center is set but still jiggles slightly. Once done, cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
6. Serve
Finally, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the cheesecake out of the pan. Then, cut into bars, garnish with fresh strawberries, and add whipped cream if desired.
Pro Tips for Success of Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
- Softened Cream Cheese: Always start with room-temperature cream cheese for a silky-smooth filling.
- Don’t Overmix: Additionally, overbeating after adding eggs can cause cracks in your cheesecake.
- Chill Thoroughly: Moreover, patience is key—chilling ensures the bars set perfectly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Strawberry Cheesecake Bars with a flourish!
- Add a drizzle of chocolate syrup or a dusting of powdered sugar for extra indulgence.
- Moreover, pair with a cup of coffee, tea, or even a glass of chilled rosé for a sophisticated touch.
- In addition, you can serve as part of a dessert platter with fresh fruit and mini meringues for variety.
Storing and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Also, these bars are best served cold, so there’s no need for reheating. Furthermore, for longer storage, freeze them in a single layer for up to 3 months—simply thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per bar (serves 12):
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Sugar: 10g
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh strawberries instead of preserves?
Yes, fresh strawberry purée works beautifully, though it may alter the texture slightly.
2. Can I freeze these bars?
Absolutely! Store in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers.
3. What if I don’t have sour cream?
Plain Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute.
4. How do I prevent cracks in the cheesecake?
Avoid overmixing and ensure the bars are cooled gradually.
5. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Use dairy-free cream cheese and yogurt, and swap butter for coconut oil in the crust.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are the perfect dessert to satisfy any sweet tooth while offering a delightful combination of creamy cheesecake and fresh strawberry flavor. Additionally, the step-by-step instructions, coupled with helpful tips, ensure that even beginner bakers can create a delicious masterpiece.
So why wait? Grab your ingredients, get baking, and enjoy the sweet slice of happiness that is Strawberry Cheesecake Bars. So, don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family, and tag us on social media—we can’t wait to see your cheesecake bars in action!
If you’re craving another refreshing dessert, be sure to check out our delicious Strawberry Bingsu, which is perfect for those hot summer days!
Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Equipment
- 8-inch square baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 16 oz cream cheese softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup strawberry preserves
- Fresh strawberries sliced (for garnish)
- Whipped cream optional, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.
- In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup of sugar. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then let it cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup of sugar using an electric mixer until smooth.
- Add sour cream, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined and creamy.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
- Dollop the strawberry preserves over the cheesecake layer and gently swirl with a knife.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Let the bars cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
- Lift the cheesecake out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut into bars. Garnish with fresh strawberry slices and serve with whipped cream if desired.
Notes
Add lemon juice to the cream cheese mixture for a tangy twist.
Ensure the cream cheese is softened for a smoother filling.
For extra indulgence, fold in mini chocolate chips or drizzle with chocolate sauce.
