Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are the dessert you didn’t know you needed—until you’ve tried them. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a rich and creamy cheesecake layer, and sweet strawberry swirls, these bars are a portable version of the classic cheesecake. And they’re way easier to slice and serve, making them perfect for parties, potlucks, or just a cozy night in.
If you’ve got some cream cheese and strawberries on hand, you’re halfway there. Let’s walk you through everything you need to make these dreamy dessert bars.
Table of Contents
🍓 Why You’ll Love These Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
- No springform pan needed
- Easy to transport and share
- Made with simple, everyday ingredients
- Looks fancy but takes minimal effort
- Freezer-friendly and great for making ahead
This is the kind of recipe that delivers bakery-quality results without all the stress of water baths or complicated steps.
🧁 Ingredients for Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Below is everything you’ll need to bring these bars to life.
Crust Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Graham cracker crumbs | 1 ½ cups |
| Melted unsalted butter | 6 tbsp |
| Granulated sugar | 2 tbsp |
Cheesecake Layer
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cream cheese (softened) | 16 oz (2 blocks) |
| Granulated sugar | ¾ cup |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
| Eggs | 2 |
| Sour cream | ½ cup |
| All-purpose flour | 1 tbsp |
Strawberry Swirl
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Fresh strawberries | 1 cup (hulled) |
| Sugar | 2 tbsp |
| Lemon juice | 1 tsp |
👩🍳 How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Make the strawberry sauce
Blend strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a food processor until smooth. Pour into a saucepan and simmer for about 10–12 minutes until slightly thickened. Let it cool completely.
Prepare the crust
Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a parchment-lined 8×8-inch pan. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 10 minutes, then let it cool.
Mix the cheesecake filling
Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and vanilla, and mix well. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the sour cream and flour. Do not overmix.
Assemble the bars
Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust. Drop spoonfuls of the cooled strawberry sauce on top and use a toothpick or knife to swirl it gently.
Bake and cool
Bake at 325°F for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly. Cool at room temperature for 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Slice and serve
Once chilled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper. Slice into squares and serve cold. Garnish with fresh strawberries if you’d like!
🍰 Tips for Success
- Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps.
- Don’t over-swirl the strawberry sauce—you want those pretty swirls to shine.
- Chill thoroughly before slicing. Warm bars won’t hold their shape.
- For sharp cuts, use a clean, warm knife and wipe between each slice.
❄️ Storage & Freezing
- Fridge: Store bars in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze bars (wrapped individually) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
❓ FAQ About Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, just thaw and drain them before making the puree. Frozen berries work just as well when fresh aren’t in season.
Do I need to use flour in the filling?
A small amount of flour helps the bars set and slice cleanly, but you can use 1 tsp of cornstarch as an alternative.
How can I tell when the bars are done baking?
The center should jiggle slightly, but not look wet. The edges will be lightly golden.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Absolutely. Double the ingredients and bake it in a 9×13-inch pan. You may need to extend the baking time by 10–15 minutes.
Are these good for making ahead?
They’re perfect for it. Make them a day in advance and keep them chilled until you’re ready to serve.
🎯 Conclusion
These Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are a sweet little slice of heaven. They bring together all the classic cheesecake elements—creamy, rich, fruity, and buttery—in a convenient, hand-held bar. Whether you’re hosting brunch, packing picnic treats, or just baking for fun, these bars deliver both style and flavor with every bite.
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