introduction
This is a easy, no-bake sweet you can make fast. The bars feel like cake but they set in the fridge. If you like soft cheese and fresh fruit, you will love this. See a fun twist on apple bars here: caramel apple cheesecake bars.
why make this recipe
You make this for warm days, for a quick party dessert, or when you want a fresh treat. You do not need an oven. You use simple steps and few tools. If you like cookie treats, try this idea: strawberry cheesecake cookies.
how to make No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Make the crust, then the cream cheese layer, then the strawberry top. Chill well so the bars slice clean. Work in this order and cool the pan after each major step. For another sweet idea, see this apple mini cake page: apple crisp mini cheesecakes.
Ingredients :
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 16 full cracker sheets)
- Pinch of salt
- ¼ cup packed light or dark brown sugar
- ½ cup butter, melted
- 16 ounces full-fat cream cheese
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons water
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 ½ lb strawberries, hulled and chopped small
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For a cookie style dessert, you can look at this recipe: strawberry cheesecake cookies recipe.
Directions :
To prepare the crust:
- In a bowl mix graham crumbs, pinch of salt, and brown sugar.
- Stir in melted butter until crumbs hold when pressed.
- Press the mix into an 8×8 or 9×9 pan in an even layer.
- Chill the crust in the fridge for 10 to 15 minutes.
To prepare the filling:
- Beat the cream cheese until smooth.
- Add ½ cup granulated sugar and vanilla. Mix well.
- In a separate bowl whip the heavy cream until it makes soft peaks.
- Fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mix gently.
- Spread the filling evenly over the chilled crust.
- Put the pan back in the fridge while you make the topping.
To make the topping:
- In a small pot, mix 2 tablespoons water and 2 tablespoons cornstarch until smooth.
- Add chopped strawberries, 1 cup sugar, and lemon juice to the pot.
- Cook over low heat, stir, and bring to a gentle boil until the fruit softens and sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Let the fruit cool to room temp.
- Spoon the strawberry topping over the cream cheese layer in an even layer.
- Chill the pan for at least 4 hours or overnight so bars set.
how to serve No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Cut the bars into squares with a sharp knife. Wipe the knife between cuts for neat slices. Serve cold. Add a few whole strawberries or a light dust of sugar on top if you like.
how to store No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Cover the pan with plastic wrap or use a lid and keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can freeze pieces in an airtight box for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before you eat.
tips to make No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
- Use full-fat cream cheese for best taste and texture.
- Let the strawberry topping cool before you add it to the filling. This stops the filling from getting soft.
- Press the crust well so it stays firm when you cut the bars.
- Chill long enough so the bars set cleanly.
- For a faster set, put the pan in the freezer for 30 minutes, then move to the fridge.
Try a spicy sweet mix with apples here: caramel apple cheesecake bars idea.
variation (if any)
- Use raspberries or mixed berries for the top.
- Add a thin layer of melted chocolate between the crust and the cream layer for a chocolate touch.
- Use lemon zest in the filling for a fresh bright note.
FAQs (minimum three FAQ)
Q: Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
A: You can, but the bars may be less rich and softer. Full-fat gives the best texture.
Q: How long does the topping last in the fridge?
A: The cooked strawberry topping will last about 4 days in the fridge in a closed container.
Q: Can I make this in a larger pan?
A: Yes. If you use a 9×13 pan, make more crust and filling or expect thinner bars.
Q: Do I need to cook the strawberries?
A: Yes. Cooking with cornstarch makes a thick topping that stays on the bars.
Conclusion
For more photos and a step guide you can follow, see this full recipe on No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Bars – Completely Delicious.
Print
No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
- Total Time: 240 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing, no-bake dessert that combines a graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and a sweet strawberry topping.
Ingredients
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 16 full cracker sheets)
- Pinch of salt
- ¼ cup packed light or dark brown sugar
- ½ cup butter, melted
- 16 ounces full-fat cream cheese
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons water
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 ½ lb strawberries, hulled and chopped small
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the crust by mixing graham crumbs, pinch of salt, and brown sugar in a bowl. Stir in melted butter until crumbs hold when pressed, and then press the mix into an even layer in an 8×8 or 9×9 pan. Chill the crust in the fridge for 10 to 15 minutes.
- For the filling, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add ½ cup granulated sugar and vanilla, mixing well. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form and fold it into the cream cheese mixture. Spread the filling evenly over the chilled crust and place it back in the fridge.
- To make the topping, mix water and cornstarch in a small pot until smooth. Add chopped strawberries, 1 cup sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over low heat, stirring until it gently boils and thickens (about 5 minutes). Allow the fruit to cool to room temperature and spoon it over the cream cheese layer. Chill for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
- To serve, cut bars into squares and serve cold. Optionally garnish with whole strawberries or a dusting of sugar.
Notes
Use full-fat cream cheese for the best taste and texture. Chill long enough for firm bars. You can freeze pieces for up to a month.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
