Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are a delicious and easy dessert that combines the rich flavors of cheesecake with the fruity freshness of strawberries. Perfect for any occasion, these bars are sure to please your family and friends. Whether you enjoy them on a warm summer day or as a sweet ending to a cozy dinner, they are a delightful treat.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Strawberry Cheesecake Bars is a fantastic way to enjoy the classic flavors of cheesecake without the fuss of a traditional pie. They are simple to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making them a great option for parties, gatherings, or just a tasty dessert at home. Plus, the combination of creamy cheesecake with sweet strawberry preserves is hard to resist!
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup strawberry preserves or jam
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, chopped (optional)
- Crushed graham crackers or shortbread cookies (optional)
Directions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup of sugar, and melted butter. Press this mixture into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish. Bake it for 8-10 minutes.
Step 2: For the cheesecake filling, beat the softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup of sugar together until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream until everything is just combined. Pour this filling over the cooled crust.
Step 3: Bake the cheesecake for 30-35 minutes, until the center is slightly jiggly. Let it cool at room temperature, and then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight.
Step 4: Once chilled, spread the strawberry preserves over the top of the cheesecake. You can also add fresh strawberries on top if you like.
Step 5: Garnish your bars with crushed graham crackers or shortbread cookies for some extra crunch. Slice into bars and serve them chilled.
How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Bars chilled, directly from the refrigerator. They make a wonderful dessert for any meal or occasion. You can also pair them with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
How to Store Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Store your Strawberry Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3-5 days, so you can enjoy them over several days or save them for a special occasion.
Tips to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- Don’t overmix once you add the eggs; this helps prevent cracks on the surface.
- For a stronger strawberry flavor, consider adding fresh chopped strawberries in the cheesecake filling.
Variation
You can easily change the fruit topping to your favorite berries or even use a mixed berry preserve for a different twist. Another fun idea is to swirl the strawberry preserves into the cheesecake filling before baking.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these bars gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs to make the crust.
Q: How can I make these bars sweeter?
A: You can increase the amount of sugar in the cheesecake filling or choose a sweeter strawberry jam.
Q: Can I freeze Strawberry Cheesecake Bars?
A: Yes, you can freeze them. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Enjoy making and sharing your Strawberry Cheesecake Bars! They are sure to be a hit with everyone!
