why make this recipe

Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat that combines the creamy goodness of cheesecake with the fresh sweetness of strawberries. They are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, birthday party, or just a sweet craving. These bars are easy to make and will impress your friends and family with their delicious flavor and beautiful presentation.

how to make Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

Ingredients:

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 4 tablespoons salted butter, melted
• 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 cups chopped strawberries
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 cup old-fashioned oats
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and finely diced

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a 9 by 9 inch baking pan with parchment paper and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Make a small well in the center and pour in the melted butter. Mix until evenly combined.
3. Transfer the crust mixture to the prepared baking pan and press it evenly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 8 minutes.
4. While the crust is baking, beat together the cheesecake ingredients in a medium bowl until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
5. In a medium saucepan, add the chopped strawberries, lemon juice, and vanilla. Cook over medium-high heat for 5 to 7 minutes until the strawberries burst and juice starts to form.
6. In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar and cornstarch. Stir this mixture into the strawberry mixture and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it thickens and looks like pie filling. Remove from heat.
7. To make the oatmeal crumble, combine all crumble ingredients in a large bowl. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until you have a coarse crumble.
8. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the baked crust and spread it evenly. Top with the strawberry filling, then sprinkle the crumble topping over the strawberries.
9. Bake for 50 to 70 minutes until the crumble topping is golden brown.
10. Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan on a wire rack for 30 to 60 minutes. Transfer to the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight before slicing into squares.

how to serve Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Bars chilled, cut into squares. They are great on their own, but you can also add a dollop of whipped cream or a fresh strawberry on top for extra flair. They make a lovely dessert for any gathering.

how to store Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

Store any leftover Strawberry Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 5 to 7 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Just remember to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.

tips to make Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

• Make sure your cream cheese is softened before mixing to avoid lumps in the filling.
• You can use fresh strawberries or frozen ones, but if using frozen, thaw and drain them first.
• Let the bars cool completely in the pan before refrigerating to ensure they set properly.

variation

You can switch up the fruit topping by using blueberries, raspberries, or peaches instead of strawberries for a different flavor. Another tasty variation is to add a layer of chocolate ganache on top of the cheesecake layer before adding the fruit.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?
Yes! You can use crushed cookies like Oreos or vanilla wafers instead of graham crackers for a different flavor.

2. How can I tell when the cheesecake bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the crumble topping is golden brown and the edges are set. The middle may jiggle slightly, but it will firm up as it cools.

3. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes! These Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are perfect for making ahead. They taste even better after chilling in the fridge for a while.