Description
These Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate creamy, fruity dessert. Featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, smooth cheesecake filling, and a fresh strawberry swirl, they’re easy to make, slice, and serve—perfect for parties, picnics, or whenever you’re craving something sweet and tangy.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Granulated sugar
- Melted butter
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- Cream cheese (softened)
- Granulated sugar
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
For the Strawberry Swirl:
- Fresh or frozen strawberries
- Granulated sugar
- Lemon juice
- Cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Make the Crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into pan and bake for 8–10 minutes. Let cool.
- Make Strawberry Swirl: In a saucepan, simmer strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Mash and cook until slightly thickened. Optionally add cornstarch. Cool completely.
- Prepare Filling: Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla and sour cream.
- Assemble: Pour filling over crust and smooth the top. Drop spoonfuls of strawberry mixture on top and swirl with a knife.
- Bake: Bake for 35–40 minutes, until center is set and slightly jiggly.
- Chill: Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours before slicing.
Notes
- For a twist, use crushed shortbread or chocolate cookies for the crust.
- Raspberry, blueberry, or even lemon curd can replace the strawberry swirl.
- Add lemon zest to the filling for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Store-bought jam works in a pinch—warm it slightly for easier swirling.
