Description
Creamy cheesecake bars with a buttery graham cracker crust and a fresh strawberry topping. These Strawberry Cheesecake Dream Bars are a delightful dessert perfect for holidays, parties, and any special gatherings, offering a perfect balance of rich cheesecake and sweet, tangy strawberries.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Layer
- 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Strawberry Topping
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, diced
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F) to prepare for baking the crust and cheesecake layers.
- Prepare Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy removal of bars.
- Make Crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form an even crust layer.
- Bake Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8 minutes. Remove and let it cool slightly to set before adding the cheesecake layer.
- Mix Cheesecake Filling: Beat softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in vanilla extract for flavor.
- Assemble Cheesecake Layer: Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the cooled crust in the baking pan.
- Bake Cheesecake: Bake for 30–35 minutes or until the center is just set and no longer jiggly, indicating it is properly cooked.
- Cool and Refrigerate: Allow the cheesecake to cool completely to room temperature, then refrigerate it for at least 3 hours or overnight to firm up and develop texture.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix diced fresh strawberries with sugar and lemon juice to create a sweet, tangy topping.
- Add Topping and Serve: Spoon the strawberry mixture evenly over the chilled cheesecake layer. Slice into 16 bars and serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For best texture, chill the cheesecake bars overnight.
- Using fresh strawberries enhances the flavor and visual appeal of the topping.
- Store the bars refrigerated for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
