A No-Fuss, Crowd-Pleasing Dessert
If you love cheesecake but don’t want the hassle of making a full-sized one, these Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are the perfect solution! They combine a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy cheesecake layer, and a fresh strawberry topping to create a dessert that’s both rich and refreshing. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet craving, these bars are easy, quick, and incredibly delicious!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons melted butter
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon sour cream
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup sweetened condensed milk
- ⅓ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Strawberry Layer:
- 1 package strawberry gelatin
- ½ cup boiling water
- ½ cup ice
- 2 pounds fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
For the Whipped Topping:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture firmly into a greased or parchment-lined 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Bake for 8 to 11 minutes, or until golden brown. Let it cool completely before adding the cheesecake layer.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add the sour cream, sugar, sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Mix until creamy and well combined.
- Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the cooled crust and place it in the refrigerator to chill.
Step 3: Prepare the Strawberry Gelatin
- In a bowl, dissolve the strawberry gelatin in ½ cup boiling water.
- Add ½ cup ice to cool the mixture down quickly.
- Stir until the ice is melted and the gelatin begins to thicken slightly.
Step 4: Assemble the Bars
- Arrange the sliced fresh strawberries evenly over the chilled cheesecake layer.
- Pour the slightly thickened strawberry gelatin over the strawberries, ensuring they are fully covered.
- Place the dish back in the refrigerator and let it set for at least 3-4 hours, or until firm.
Step 5: Whip Up the Topping
- In a separate bowl, whip 2 cups of heavy cream and ¼ cup sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Once the strawberry layer has fully set, spread or pipe the whipped cream over the top for an extra creamy finish.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!
- Slice into squares or bars and serve chilled.
- Enjoy your Strawberry Cheesecake Bars with friends and family!
Pro Tips for the Best Cheesecake Bars
- Chill thoroughly: Let the cheesecake and strawberry layers set completely before slicing to get clean and beautiful layers.
- Use fresh strawberries: For the best flavor, choose ripe, sweet strawberries.
- Make ahead: These bars are perfect for prepping the night before a party or gathering!
About the Creator
This delightful Strawberry Cheesecake Bars recipe is brought to you by @leafandbeanfarm. She brings together the best of creamy cheesecake and fresh strawberries in a simple, fuss-free dessert. Perfect for family gatherings, brunches, or satisfying a sweet tooth, it’s sure to be a hit!
Watch The Recipe In Action:
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These Strawberry Cheesecake Bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy cheesecake layer, and a fresh strawberry topping. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, this dessert is a must-try for cheesecake lovers!