π Strawberry Cheesecake Bars π
These Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are the perfect combination of creamy, tangy cheesecake and sweet, fresh strawberries, all on a buttery graham cracker crust. Theyβre easy to make and great for parties, potlucks, or just an indulgent treat at home!
π Ingredients
For the Crust:
1 Β½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10β12 crackers)
ΒΌ cup granulated sugar
Β½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for extra warmth)
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
16 oz cream cheese, softened
Β½ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Β½ cup sour cream (for extra creaminess)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Strawberry Topping:
1 Β½ cups fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
ΒΌ cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons water
π₯ How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
1οΈβ£ Prep the Crust:
Preheat oven to 325Β°F (165Β°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter until well combined.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan.
Bake for 8β10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.
2οΈβ£ Make the Cheesecake Filling:
In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
Add in eggs, vanilla, sour cream, and lemon juice, mixing until creamy.
Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust and smooth the top.
3οΈβ£ Bake the Cheesecake:
Bake for 30β35 minutes, or until the center is set and slightly jiggly.
Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best).
4οΈβ£ Make the Strawberry Topping:
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and water.
Cook for 5β7 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened.
Let cool completely, then spread over the chilled cheesecake.
5οΈβ£ Slice & Serve:
Once the topping is set, cut into bars and enjoy!
π Pro Tips for the Best Cheesecake Bars
βοΈ Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother cheesecake filling.
βοΈ Chill completely before slicing for clean, even bars.
βοΈ Swap toppings! Try blueberries, raspberries, or even a drizzle of chocolate.
These Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are rich, creamy, and bursting with fresh strawberry flavorβa perfect dessert for any occasion! ππ