Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
strawberry cheesecake bars - featured image

Strawberry Cheesecake Bars: Best Easy Dessert


  • Author: Julia
  • Total Time: 5 hours 23 minutes
  • Yield: 16 servings 1x

Description

These strawberry cheesecake bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth and creamy cream cheese filling, and a fresh strawberry topping with a shiny glaze. They are foolproof, make-ahead friendly, and perfect for any occasion.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs
  • 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons (25g) granulated sugar
  • Pinch of salt
  • 24 ounces (680g) full-fat cream cheese, room temperature
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons (15g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 pound (450g) fresh strawberries, sliced
  • ¼ cup (60g) strawberry jam or preserves
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) water
  • Optional: Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the long sides, and lightly grease.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and salt. Mix until it resembles wet sand.
  3. Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 8 minutes, then remove and let cool.
  4. In a large bowl, beat the room-temperature cream cheese on medium-low speed until smooth and creamy (2-3 minutes). Scrape down the bowl.
  5. Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract. Beat on low speed until just combined.
  6. Add eggs one at a time, beating on low speed after each addition until just incorporated. Add flour and beat gently until smooth.
  7. Pour the filling over the pre-baked crust and spread evenly. Tap the pan gently to release air bubbles.
  8. Arrange sliced strawberries in a single layer on top of the filling.
  9. Bake for 45-50 minutes until edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. If edges brown too quickly, cover with foil.
  10. Cool in the pan on a wire rack for 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  11. While chilling, warm strawberry jam and water in a small saucepan until smooth. Strain if desired.
  12. Lift bars out of the pan using parchment overhang. Brush with strawberry glaze, slice into squares, and serve.

Notes

Ensure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature to prevent lumps. Do not overmix the batter after adding eggs to avoid incorporating air, which causes cracking. Pre-baking the crust ensures it stays crisp. The bars are best when chilled overnight.

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 53 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bar
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 22
  • Sodium: 180
  • Fat: 15
  • Saturated Fat: 9
  • Carbohydrates: 32
  • Fiber: 1
  • Protein: 5

Keywords: strawberry cheesecake bars, easy dessert, make-ahead dessert, graham cracker crust, fresh strawberry topping, no-crack cheesecake