No-Bake Strawberry Chocolate Dessert Bars are a luscious, easy-to-make treat that combines sweet strawberries, rich chocolate, and a buttery crust. These bars are perfect for summer gatherings, quick desserts, or whenever you want a delicious treat without turning on the oven.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These dessert bars are both indulgent and simple. With layers of chocolate and strawberry, they offer a perfect balance of fruity sweetness and creamy richness. No baking is required, making this recipe quick, easy, and mess-free. They’re also visually stunning, making them ideal for serving to guests or sharing as a special treat.

No-Bake Strawberry Chocolate Dessert Bars

Ingredients

For the Base:

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the Strawberry Layer:

1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thicker layer)

For the Chocolate Layer:

1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Garnish (optional):

Sliced strawberries
Chocolate shavings or drizzle

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the base:
In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch (23×23 cm) baking pan lined with parchment paper. Chill in the refrigerator for 10 minutes to set.
Make the strawberry layer:
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine chopped strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the strawberries soften and release their juices. If you prefer a thicker layer, mix cornstarch with a little water and add it to the strawberries, cooking for 1-2 more minutes until slightly thickened. Allow to cool slightly.
Prepare the chocolate layer:
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. Stir in vanilla extract.
Assemble the bars:
Spread the cooled strawberry mixture evenly over the chilled graham cracker base. Pour the chocolate mixture over the strawberry layer and spread evenly.
Chill:
Refrigerate the assembled bars for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate layer is firm.
Serve:
Remove from the pan using the parchment paper. Slice into bars and garnish with sliced strawberries or chocolate shavings, if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 12 bars.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Chilling time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours 20 minutes

Variations

Berry Mix: Use raspberries or blueberries in place of strawberries.
Nutty Twist: Add chopped almonds, hazelnuts, or pecans to the base or chocolate layer.
White Chocolate: Use white chocolate instead of semi-sweet for a sweeter version.
Vegan Option: Use coconut cream and vegan chocolate chips for a dairy-free version.
Layered Look: Add a thin layer of crushed cookies between the strawberry and chocolate layers for extra texture.

Storage/Reheating

Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 1 month. Allow frozen bars to thaw in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving. No reheating is needed.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, thaw and drain them first to remove excess moisture before using.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely, they can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until serving.

Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate?

Yes, milk chocolate works, but adjust sugar in the strawberry layer if needed to balance sweetness.

Can I make them nut-free?

Yes, simply skip any optional nuts or nut-based crust ingredients.

Can I make smaller, bite-sized bars?

Yes, slice into squares or rectangles of any size, perfect for parties or lunchboxes.

How long do they last in the fridge?

Up to 5 days in an airtight container.

Can I freeze them?

Yes, freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Can I use a different crust?

Yes, digestive biscuits, Oreo crumbs, or shortbread crumbs work as alternatives.

Can I add a glaze or drizzle?

Yes, drizzle extra melted chocolate or a strawberry glaze over the top for decoration.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Yes, it’s a sweet, fruity, and chocolatey treat that children usually love.

Conclusion

No-Bake Strawberry Chocolate Dessert Bars are a simple yet indulgent treat, combining the sweetness of fresh strawberries with rich, creamy chocolate over a crunchy base. Perfect for summer, parties, or quick dessert cravings, they require no oven and are as beautiful as they are delicious.