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Creamy Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

creamy strawberry cheesecake bars - featured image

These creamy strawberry cheesecake bars combine a buttery crust, smooth cream cheese layer, and fresh strawberry topping for a quick and delicious dessert perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuits)
  • ⅓ cup (75g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
  • ⅔ cup (135g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • ½ cup (120ml) sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
  • 2 cups (300g) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
  2. Make the crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 2 tablespoons sugar. Stir until evenly coated and mixture feels like wet sand. Press firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
  3. Bake the crust for 10 minutes. Remove and let cool slightly.
  4. Prepare the cheesecake layer: Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add ⅔ cup sugar and beat until combined. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream until silky smooth. Pour batter over crust and spread evenly.
  5. Bake cheesecake for 30-35 minutes until edges are set but center jiggles slightly. Remove and cool completely on a cooling rack.
  6. Make the strawberry topping: In a small saucepan, combine sliced strawberries, 2 tablespoons sugar, and lemon juice over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves and berries release juice, about 5 minutes. Add cornstarch slurry and cook, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and cool to room temperature.
  7. Once cheesecake is cooled, spread strawberry topping evenly over the top. Chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
  8. Use parchment overhang to lift bars from pan. Slice into 12 squares and serve.

Notes

Soften cream cheese completely before mixing to avoid lumps. Use the jiggle test to avoid overbaking and cracking. Stir strawberry topping continuously to prevent lumps and ensure a glossy finish. Chill bars overnight for best texture and flavor. For cleaner slices, dip knife in hot water and wipe dry between cuts.

Nutrition

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