Looking for a refreshing dessert that’s equal parts creamy and fruity? These Strawberry Cheesecake Bars combine a buttery graham cracker crust, velvety smooth cheesecake filling, and a glossy homemade strawberry topping. Whether you’re prepping for a summer picnic, holiday party, or just a sweet family treat, this simple make-ahead dessert is always a showstopper.
Why You’ll Love These Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
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Creamy and tangy cheesecake topped with real strawberry compote
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Easy to slice, serve, and store — ideal for gatherings
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Crowd-pleasing flavor with minimal effort
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Made with simple, accessible ingredients
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Perfect for spring, summer, or holiday dessert tables
Ingredients Breakdown
Crust Layer:
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1½ cups graham cracker crumbs – Classic base with a crunchy texture.
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¼ cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the crust just enough.
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½ cup unsalted butter, melted – Binds the crumbs for a firm, buttery layer.
Cheesecake Filling:
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16 oz cream cheese, softened – Smooth and tangy base for a velvety texture.
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½ cup granulated sugar – Balances the tartness of the cream cheese.
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2 large eggs – Helps the cheesecake set while staying creamy.
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1 tsp vanilla extract – Adds warm, aromatic flavor.
Strawberry Topping:
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1½ cups fresh strawberries, chopped – Bursting with natural sweetness and color.
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¼ cup granulated sugar – Enhances the strawberry flavor.
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1 tbsp cornstarch + ¼ cup water – Thickens the topping into a glossy fruit layer.
Tips and Tricks
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Make it extra creamy by using room-temperature ingredients.
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Avoid overbaking — cheesecake should have a slight jiggle in the center.
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Chill completely for clean slices and best texture.
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Use a hot knife to slice for cleaner edges.
Variations and Customizations
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Blueberry or Raspberry Topping: Swap strawberries for your favorite berries
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Swirl In Jam: Add strawberry jam or preserves directly into the cheesecake layer for extra flavor
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Chocolate Crust: Use crushed chocolate cookies instead of graham crackers
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Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust
Pairing Suggestions
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Fresh Mint Tea or a fruity white wine
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Vanilla Ice Cream or a dollop of whipped cream
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Lemonade or Sparkling Water with sliced strawberries
Storage Instructions
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Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days
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Freezer: Freeze uncut bars for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge
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To Serve from Frozen: Let sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before slicing
Popular Questions
Can I use frozen strawberries for the topping?
Yes, just thaw and drain them first to prevent excess moisture. The texture may be slightly softer, but it will still taste great.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Use a 9×13-inch pan and increase the bake time by 5–10 minutes.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes, this is a great make-ahead dessert. Prepare up to 2 days in advance and keep chilled until ready to serve
