Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

Strawberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Close your eyes and imagine the first bite of a luscious, creamy strawberry cheesecake bar, with rich cheesecake and a satisfying crunch from the graham cracker and Oreo crust. The succulent sweetness of fresh strawberries harmonizes perfectly with the silky smooth texture, each slice looking like a radiant sunset. This Strawberry Cheesecake Bars recipe is not just a dessert; it’s a nostalgic trip back to carefree summers and cheerful family gatherings. Perfectly suited for busy weeknights or special occasions, it’s an easy recipe that even the kids can help make. With minimal fuss and maximum flavor, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a favorite for those seeking something delectable and indulgent.

Are you ready for a sweet adventure with strawberries?

Picture a sun-drenched picnic table, laughter floating in the air, and desserts that everyone can’t resist. What if I told you that with just a handful of ingredients, you can create a sweet, creamy masterpiece that delivers all the flavors of summer with every bite? Yes, I’m talking about making these dreamy Strawberry Cheesecake Bars that not only taste divine but also look stunning. What’s your go-to dessert that reminds you of sunshine and happiness?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Strawberry Cheesecake Bars recipe is designed for those who love desserts that are easy to make and even more delightful to eat. Here are just a few reasons you’ll adore this recipe:

• Quick Preparation: With only a handful of steps, the prep time is less than 30 minutes.
• Kid-Friendly: Let the little ones join in on the fun! They’ll love mixing and decorating.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dessert is a guaranteed hit at birthday parties, family gatherings, or any celebration.
• Minimal Ingredients: Fewer ingredients mean less hassle in the kitchen.

Grab your mixing bowls, and let’s dive into this decadent recipe!

Ingredients

• 24 ounces cream cheese, softened to creamy perfection
• 1 cup granulated sugar, sweetening each luscious bite
• 3 large eggs, binding everything together with a silky texture
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, infusing warmth and sweetness
• 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter, creating a velvety layer
• 2 cups crumbs from graham crackers, for that classic cheesecake crust
• 3 tablespoons melted butter for the crust, for a deeper richness
• 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries or a sprinkle of strawberry Jell-O powder, intensifying strawberry flavor
• 1 1/2 cups golden Oreo cookies, crushed finely for the crunch
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, adding a zesty pop
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar for the sauce, brightening the strawberry sauce
• 1 1/2 cups chopped fresh strawberries, bursting with freshness and flavor
• Melted white chocolate for drizzling on top, a touch of indulgent sweetness
• Extra strawberry crunch mix for a playful sprinkle on top, for a fun finishing touch

Let your senses revel in the flavors and textures!

Timing

This recipe is a delightful balance between quick indulgence and slow, luxurious enjoyment. With just 30 minutes of active preparation, followed by a bit of baking and chilling time, you can have your irresistible dessert ready in about 5 hours. Perfect for those who need something sweet on short notice or anyone looking to impress at a gathering.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325 degrees F. Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper and give it a gentle grease.

2. Create the crust: In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with 3 tablespoons of melted butter. Press this buttery mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan and bake for about 10 minutes until golden. Allow it to cool completely.

3. Make the crunch topping: Combine Oreo crumbs, freeze-dried strawberries or Jell-O powder, and 1/2 cup melted butter in a separate bowl. Mix well, letting sweet anticipation build, and set aside.

4. Prepare the cheesecake filling: Beat the cream cheese and 1 cup of sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then pour in the vanilla extract.

5. Bake: Spread the luscious cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust and bake for 40 to 45 minutes until mostly set. Cool the dish before refrigerating for at least 4 hours—this waiting makes it even more divine.

6. Make the strawberry sauce: In a saucepan, combine your chopped fresh strawberries, 1/2 cup sugar, and lemon juice. Cook on medium heat until softened and thickened, about 5 to 7 minutes. Cool this sweet sauce before drizzling.

7. Final assembly: Cut the chilled cheesecake into irresistible bars, drizzle with the strawberry sauce, and top with melted white chocolate and the crunchy topping. You’ll be tempted to eat them straight from the pan!

Nutritional Information

These strawberry cheesecake bars are undeniably indulgent, each square packing a flavor punch. While specific caloric content will depend on portions, anticipate that these delicious bars are a treat to be savored. As always with sweets, enjoy occasionally and in moderation for a delightful experience.

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking to lighten up your dessert a bit, consider these alternatives:

• Low-sugar options: Use a sugar substitute for the granulated sugar.
• Dairy-free: Substitute cream cheese with a plant-based alternative for a lighter version.
• Graham Cracker Alternative: Use whole-grain or gluten-free crackers if you prefer healthier crust options.

Serving Suggestions

The versatility of Strawberry Cheesecake Bars makes them perfect for various occasions. Imagine serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream at a summer picnic, adorning your table at holiday gatherings, or savoring them as a sweet midnight snack. The pairing options are endless!

Common Mistakes

While making these cheesecake bars is straightforward, keep an eye out for a few common pitfalls:

• Overbaking: Watch the baking time carefully; overbaked bars can become dry.
• Texture Issues: Ensure all your ingredients, especially cream cheese, are at room temperature for a smooth filling.
• Messy Cutting: Use a hot knife to cut clean squares without smushing the layers.

Storing Tips

Keep these delicious Strawberry Cheesecake Bars fresh and enjoyable! Remember to:

• Freeze portions: Wrap them in plastic wrap and place in airtight containers for freezing. They can last up to two months.
• Reheating: When ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the fridge overnight for best texture before serving.

Tempting Readers to Bake It ASAP

Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are not just a dessert; they are an experience waiting to happen. With their creamy filling bursting with fresh flavors and a crunchy, buttery crust, these treats are calling your name! Don’t wait for a special occasion—make them today and indulge in a slice (or two).

FAQs

1. Can I make these cheesecake bars a day ahead?

Absolutely! In fact, they taste even better the next day once the flavors meld beautifully in the fridge!

2. How should I store leftover bars?

Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze them for longer storage.

3. Can I use frozen strawberries in the sauce?

Yes, frozen strawberries work as well. Just ensure to thaw and drain them beforehand.

4. What can I substitute for graham crackers?

You can try digestive biscuits or crushed pretzels for an alternative flavor and texture.

5. How do I achieve a smooth cheesecake filling?

Beat cream cheese until completely smooth before adding other ingredients, ensuring they are all at room temperature.

Get ready to embark on a delightful culinary adventure as you create these Strawberry Cheesecake Bars that marry texture and taste in the most mesmerizing way!

Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Luscious strawberry cheesecake bars with a creamy filling, graham cracker and Oreo crust, and a delicious strawberry sauce.

• Author: catherine
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 300 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 24 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter
• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 3 tablespoons melted butter for crust
• 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries or strawberry Jell-O powder
• 1 1/2 cups crushed golden Oreo cookies
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar for sauce
• 1 1/2 cups chopped fresh strawberries
• Melted white chocolate for drizzling
• Extra strawberry crunch mix for topping

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F. Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper and grease it lightly.
2. In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs with 3 tablespoons melted butter. Press into the bottom of the pan and bake for about 10 minutes. Allow cooling.
3. In a separate bowl, mix Oreo crumbs, freeze-dried strawberries or Jell-O powder, and 1/2 cup melted butter to make the crunch topping.
4. Beat cream cheese and 1 cup sugar until smooth. Add the eggs, mixing well after each. Add vanilla extract.
5. Spread cheesecake mixture over cooled crust and bake for 40-45 minutes until mostly set. Cool and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
6. In a saucepan, cook chopped strawberries, 1/2 cup sugar, and lemon juice over medium heat until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Cool before drizzling.
7. Cut chilled cheesecake into bars, drizzle with strawberry sauce, and top with melted white chocolate and crunch topping.

Notes

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth filling. Watch baking time to avoid overbaking.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 25g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 60mg