Strawberry Cheesecake Bar

Strawberry Cheesecake Bar

Strawberry Cheesecake Bar is a delightful treat that combines the rich creaminess of cheesecake with the bright, juicy essence of fresh strawberries—creating an experience that is both comforting and indulgent. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings, summer picnics, or simply a sweet afternoon snack. The ease of preparation, combined with the delightful flavors, makes it a dessert you’ll want to return to time and again. The cheesecake bars are not only visually appealing but also evoke nostalgia, reminding you of warm days spent with loved ones enjoying delicious treats. Let’s dive into this step-by-step recipe that’s sure to impress your family and friends!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s so much to adore about this Strawberry Cheesecake Bar recipe. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a great choice for bakers of all skill levels. With minimal ingredients and quick cooking time, you’ll be able to whip up a mouthwatering dessert without spending the entire day in the kitchen. Beyond its simplicity, this recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, offering a perfect balance of creamy and fruity flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

The use of fresh strawberries adds a burst of color and flavor, elevating the standard cheesecake experience to something truly special. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to treat yourself, these cheesecake bars deliver on all fronts.

Ingredients

To create the perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Bar, you will need the following delicious ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs: These provide a sweet and crispy foundation for the bars.
• 1/4 cup sugar: Enhances sweetness and complements the creaminess of the filling.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and binds the crust together deliciously.
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened: The star of the show, offering that creamy texture we all love.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Balances the tang of the cream cheese with added sweetness.
• 2 large eggs: Essential for binding and structure.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Imparts a warm and aromatic touch.
• 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds a unique tanginess that lifts the cheesecake filling.
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour: Helps to stabilize the filling.
• 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, diced: Provides a burst of freshness and vibrant color.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for strawberries): Enhances the natural sweetness of the strawberries.
• 1 tbsp lemon juice: Brightens the strawberry topping with a zesty kick.

These ingredients combine to create a rich, creamy cheesecake layered with a fruity strawberry topping that is simply irresistible!

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and sugar, then pour in the melted butter. Stir well until all crumbs are evenly coated. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, creating an even layer.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. It’s crucial to ensure there are no lumps for that delectably smooth texture. Gradually add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and flour. Mix everything together until the batter is completely smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust in the baking pan, smoothing it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is still slightly jiggly. Allow it to cool at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours. This chilling time is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.

Step 4: Prepare the Strawberry Topping

For the strawberry topping, combine the diced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. This step will amplify the natural flavors of the strawberries. Once thickened, allow it to cool completely.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Once the cheesecake is chilled and firm, remove it from the refrigerator. Spread the cooled strawberry topping evenly over the cheesecake. Carefully slice into bars, serve immediately, and enjoy the burst of flavors with every bite!

Tips & Tricks

To elevate your Strawberry Cheesecake Bars further, consider adding a sprinkle of lemon zest to the filling for an extra zing. For a gourmet touch, top each bar with a dollop of whipped cream and a fresh strawberry slice before serving. Use a plastic knife or a spatula to slice through the cheesecake cleanly, ensuring that the edges remain intact.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

These Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are perfect for a variety of occasions. Serve them chilled as a refreshing dessert at summer barbecues or picnics. They make for a fabulous ending to a family dinner or can be served at birthday parties and gatherings. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream for an extra layer of indulgence. A drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of crushed nuts can also enhance the visual appeal and add exciting textures.

Nutritional Information

When enjoying these Strawberry Cheesecake Bars, moderation is key. Each bar contains approximately 250 calories. It’s packed with essential nutrients from the strawberries, plus a good amount of calcium from the cream cheese. However, be mindful of portion sizes, especially if you’re watching your sugar intake. Balancing this treat with healthier meal options throughout the day can allow you to enjoy dessert without guilt.

Storing Tips & Variations

These cheesecake bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making them a delightful dessert to make ahead. For longer storage, consider freezing the bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving for best results.

You can also experiment with various toppings, such as mixed berries, chocolate ganache, or even a caramel drizzle for a different flavor experience. Switching out the strawberries for blueberries or raspberries will give a refreshing twist while keeping the recipe delicious.

Conclusion

Now that you have the complete breakdown of how to make Strawberry Cheesecake Bars, give this delectable dessert a try! It’s not just a recipe; it’s an experience wrapped in flavor and nostalgia. Don’t forget to share your creation with friends and family, and see how they enjoy every creamy, fruity bite. Happy baking!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries; just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before using them to prevent the topping from becoming too watery.

2. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or crushed gluten-free cookies for the crust. Ensure all other ingredients are labeled gluten-free.

3. How can I cut the cheesecake bars into perfect squares?

For clean cuts, dip a knife in hot water, wipe it dry, and then cut into squares. This method prevents the bars from sticking to the knife.

4. Can I make these cheesecake bars vegan?

You can create a vegan version by substituting cream cheese with a plant-based alternative, using flax eggs instead of regular eggs, and ensuring that all other ingredients align with a vegan diet.

5. What should I do if the cheesecake cracks while baking?

To prevent cracks, make sure you don’t overmix the batter and avoid rapid temperature changes. If cracks do form, a fruit topping or whipped cream can easily cover them for a beautiful presentation!

Strawberry Cheesecake Bar

A delightful treat combining creamy cheesecake with fresh strawberries, perfect for gatherings and summer picnics.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 2 hours hrs

Servings: 12 bars

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 250

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the crust

• 1.5 cups 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs Provides a sweet and crispy foundation
• 0.25 cups 1/4 cup sugar Enhances sweetness
• 0.5 cups 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted Adds richness and binds the crust

For the cheesecake filling

• 16 oz 16 oz cream cheese, softened The star of the show
• 1 cup 1 cup granulated sugar Balances tanginess with added sweetness
• 2 large 2 large eggs Essential for binding
• 1 tsp 1 tsp vanilla extract Adds aromatic touch
• 0.5 cups 1/2 cup sour cream Adds unique tanginess
• 1 tbsp 1 tbsp all-purpose flour Helps to stabilize the filling

For the strawberry topping

• 1.5 cups 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, diced Provides freshness and color
• 0.25 cups 1/4 cup granulated sugar Enhances natural sweetness of strawberries
• 1 tbsp 1 tbsp lemon juice Brightens the topping

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and sugar, then pour in the melted butter. Stir well until all crumbs are evenly coated.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, creating an even layer.

Making the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the granulated sugar until smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
2. Gradually add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and flour, mixing until completely smooth.

Baking

1. Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust, smoothing it out evenly.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.
3. Allow to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

Preparing the Strawberry Topping

1. Combine the diced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan.
2. Cook over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
3. Allow to cool completely after thickening.

Serving

1. Once the cheesecake is chilled and firm, spread the cooled strawberry topping evenly over the cheesecake.
2. Carefully slice into bars and serve immediately.

Notes

Consider adding lemon zest for an extra zing. Top with whipped cream and strawberry slices for a gourmet touch. Use a plastic knife for clean slicing.