Description
Creamy, tangy cheesecake layered over a buttery graham cracker crust, topped with fresh strawberry sauce. These strawberry cheesecake bars are portable, decadent, and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup (1 stick/113 g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
Strawberry Topping
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- ¼ cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking pan. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then cool slightly.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling. Beat softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Mix in eggs one at a time, then fold in sour cream until just combined.
- Assemble & Bake. Pour filling over the crust and spread evenly. Bake for 30–35 minutes, until set but slightly jiggly in the center. Let cool completely.
- Make the Strawberry Topping. In a saucepan, combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until strawberries soften and release juices. Stir in cornstarch if needed to thicken. Cool, completely.
- Top & Chill. Spread strawberry topping over cooled cheesecake. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing into bars.
Notes
Always use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth filling.
Pre-bake the crust for a sturdier base.
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free graham crackers or almond flour crust.
Bars slice best when well chilled.
Add variations like chocolate chips or lemon zest, or swap strawberries for blueberries/raspberries.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes (crust + filling + topping)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American