Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Delightful strawberry cheesecake bars that combine rich and creamy cheesecake with refreshing strawberries, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tablespoons melted butter
- 3 tablespoons sugar
For the cheesecake filling
- 16 oz cream cheese (Philadelphia recommended), softened Must be softened for smooth mixing.
- ½ cup sugar
- 2 large eggs Add one at a time.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream Can substitute with plain Greek yogurt.
For the strawberry topping
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped Use fresh for the best flavor.
- 2 tablespoons sugar Adjust according to sweetness preference.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch Used to thicken the topping.
- 2 tablespoons water
- ½ teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a square baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 3 tablespoons of sugar, and melted butter. Mix well until all crumbs are evenly coated.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake for 8 to 10 minutes until golden.
Cheesecake Filling
- In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add ½ cup of sugar, mixing well after each addition.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing until just combined. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until the mixture is creamy.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the baked crust and use a spatula to smooth the top.
Baking
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles when shaken.
- Allow the cheesecake to cool completely in the pan.
Strawberry Topping
- While the cheesecake cools, prepare the strawberry topping. In a saucepan, combine chopped strawberries, 2 tablespoons sugar, water, lemon juice, and cornstarch.
- Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens, stirring frequently.
- Once thickened, remove the pan from heat and let the strawberry topping cool to room temperature.
- After the cheesecake has cooled, spread the strawberry topping over the cheesecake layer.
Chilling
- Refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Once chilled, slice into bars and enjoy!
Notes
Serve these bars chilled for the best flavor. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze for up to three months. If you use frozen strawberries, they may affect topping consistency due to extra moisture.
Nutrition
Serving: 1gCalories: 240kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 4gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gSodium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15g