I love sweet bars that feel like cake and pie. These strawberry cheesecake bars sit in a pan. They taste soft and bright. You can make them in one bake. Try a small copy you like from this copycat version for a close match.

why make this recipe

You can make this recipe fast. You can bring it to a meet or give it as a gift. Kids and grown ups like the soft cheese and sweet fruit. If you want no bake ideas, look at this no bake version for a change.

how to make Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

You make these bars in steps. You press a crumb crust, mix the cheese layer, and add the warm fruit top. Then you bake and let them cool. For a no bake plan you can read this no bake idea to learn another way.

Ingredients :

2 cups graham cracker crumbs
½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
2 tbsp granulated sugar (for crust)
16 oz cream cheese (softened)
¾ cup granulated sugar (for cheese)
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
¼ cup sour cream
1½ cups fresh strawberries (diced)
¼ cup granulated sugar (for strawberries)
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 tbsp water
You can use a crust like in some fruit bars for a new taste, see a similar idea here.

Directions :

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Heat oven to 325°F (165°C).
Mix graham crumbs, 2 tbsp sugar, and melted butter.
Press mix into a 9×13 pan in an even layer.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer

Beat the cream cheese until smooth.
Add ¾ cup sugar and beat.
Mix in eggs one at a time.
Stir in vanilla and sour cream.
Pour this over the crust and smooth the top.

Step 3: Prepare the Strawberry Topping

Put diced strawberries, ¼ cup sugar, cornstarch, and water in a pan.
Cook on low heat until thick and glossy.
Let it cool a little.

Step 4: Bake the Bars

Spoon the strawberry mix over the cheesecake layer.
Bake 30 to 35 minutes until set and edges are light brown.
Turn off oven and let bars cool inside the oven with the door open a bit for 30 min.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Chill bars in the fridge at least 2 hours or overnight.
Use a sharp knife and slice into squares.

how to serve Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

Cut neat squares. Serve cold or at room heat. Add a fresh strawberry or a small dust of sugar on top. You can plate them with a fork for each guest.

how to store Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

Cover the pan and keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can freeze the bars for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before you eat.

tips to make Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

Use room temp cream cheese to avoid lumps.
Press the crust tight so it holds.
Cool the strawberry top before you spread it so it does not sink.
Chill the bars well before you cut them for clean slices.
For more tips on bar texture try this bar guide.

variation (if any)

Use raspberries or mixed berries instead of strawberries.
Stir in a little lemon zest to the cheese layer for bright taste.
Add a thin chocolate swirl on top before you bake.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen strawberries?
A: Yes. Thaw and drain them well. Cook them down like fresh fruit.

Q: Do I need sour cream?
A: Sour cream makes the cheese layer soft. You can swap with plain yogurt.

Q: How do I stop cracks on top?
A: Do not over mix the batter. Bake until just set and cool slowly.

Q: Can I halve the recipe?
A: Yes. Use a smaller pan and watch the bake time.

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes. Make a day ahead and keep in the fridge.

Conclusion

For another clear step by step guide you can use this Strawberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe (With Fresh Strawberries …).

Strawberry Cheesecake Bars