Description
Indulge in these creamy Strawberry Cheesecake Bars featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, a light and fluffy cheesecake filling, and a fresh strawberry topping. Perfect for any occasion, these bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed chilled.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Preparing the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until evenly coated.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool completely.
- Preparing the Cheesecake Filling:
- Beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture.
- Add pureed strawberries and fold until evenly distributed.
- Assembling the Cheesecake Bars:
- Pour cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and spread evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Preparing the Strawberry Topping:
- Combine sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice in a small bowl. Toss to coat.
- Let sit for 15-20 minutes to release juices.
- Serving the Cheesecake Bars:
- Cut into squares and top with strawberry topping.
- Optionally, add a dollop of whipped cream on top.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs.
- Feel free to substitute the strawberries with other fruits like raspberries or blueberries for a different flavor.
- Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes