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When the summer sun shines bright, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing dessert to cool you down. Enter strawberry cheesecake bars—a delightful treat that combines the rich, creamy indulgence of cheesecake with the bright, fruity flavor of fresh strawberries. These bars have become a favorite among dessert lovers for their perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, making them a popular choice for summer gatherings, picnics, and family celebrations.

Best Strawberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Discover the perfect summer treat with these delightful strawberry cheesecake bars. Combining rich, creamy cheesecake with the vibrant flavor of fresh strawberries, these bars offer a balance of sweetness and tartness that makes them ideal for any gathering. Whether you're an experienced baker or just starting out, this easy recipe will impress your friends and family. Dive into the step-by-step instructions and enjoy a refreshing dessert that's great for sharing or savoring solo.

Ingredients
  

For the crust:

1 cup graham cracker crumbs

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the cheesecake layer:

16 oz cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

1/4 cup sour cream

1/4 cup heavy cream

For the strawberry topping:

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1 tbsp lemon juice

1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

    Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for about 10 minutes until golden.

      Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream until fully combined.

        Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the baked crust and spread evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the center is just set (it should still slightly jiggle).

          Prepare the Strawberry Topping: While the cheesecake is cooling, in a saucepan over medium heat, combine sliced strawberries, 1/4 cup sugar, and lemon juice. Cook for about 5 minutes until the strawberries start to release their juices. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the mixture thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool.

            Assemble the Bars: Once the cheesecake has cooled to room temperature, spread the strawberry topping evenly over the cheesecake layer.

              Chill: Cover and place in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results, to let it set completely.

                Serve: Once set, lift the cheesecake out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Slice into bars, and serve chilled with additional fresh strawberries if desired.

                  Prep Time: 20 mins | Total Time: 5 hrs 10 mins | Servings: 12 bars