Strawberry Cheesecake Bars Bliss

Strawberry cheesecake bars are my go-to for spring get-togethers or any time I want something that feels fancy yet is incredibly simple to make. The combination of creamy cheesecake, crumbly graham crust, and bright strawberry topping always gets rave reviews even from picky dessert eaters.

The first time I made these was for my niece’s birthday picnic and they were gone in minutes. Everyone was asking for the recipe before we finished packing up.

Ingredients

• Graham cracker crumbs: use Lotus or another trusted graham cracker brand for best flavor and crunch
• Brown or granulated sugar: brings balanced sweetness choose brown sugar for a deeper caramel hint
• Unsalted butter, melted: gives the crust a rich base always use fresh butter for the best results
• Vanilla extract: adds warm aromatic notes pure vanilla makes a difference here
• Cream cheese: always use full-fat blocks and let them sit out so they blend silkily
• Granulated sugar: keeps the filling smooth and sweet choose fine-grained sugar to avoid grit
• Fresh lemon juice: brightens and lifts the flavor a freshly squeezed lemon is best
• Heavy whipping cream: makes the cheesecake fluffy and light use cold cream for the best whip
• Strawberry jam: adds that classic fruity finish go for one with visible fruit pieces if you can

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Crust:

Mix graham cracker crumbs sugar melted butter and vanilla extract in a small bowl really work the butter in so every crumb is coated for a crust that holds together beautifully

Form and Chill the Crust:

Press the crumb mixture evenly and firmly into an 8 or 9 inch square pan or glass pie plate use a flat bottomed glass to gently press and pack the crust then place it in the fridge so it can set up solid

Beat the Cream Cheese:

Take the room temperature cream cheese and sugar and blend until smooth and creamy be sure to stop and scrape the bowl often you want absolutely no lumps for a perfectly silky base

Add Flavorings:

Mix vanilla and lemon juice into your smooth cream cheese filling stir just until you do not see streaks to keep the mixture from getting overworked

Whip in the Cream:

Pour in the cold heavy cream in three to four additions whipping after each until it is fully mixed in and the filling is thick and fluffy this step makes the cheesecake light as air

Assemble and Chill Again:

Spread the cheesecake filling evenly onto your chilled crust then cover with plastic wrap and let it set in the fridge for at least eight hours or overnight for tidier slices

Slice and Top:

Carefully loosen edges with a thin knife and wipe the blade clean after every cut slice into bars and finish with strawberry jam spread generously over the top or add extra berries for a beautiful look

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I absolutely love the moment when you swirl the jam on top the color pop is so pretty and it always reminds me of making strawberry jam with my grandma in the summer

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to five days. These bars hold their shape best when served cold straight from the fridge. You can also freeze them for up to a month simply wrap them tightly in plastic and thaw in the fridge before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are out of graham crackers digestives or vanilla wafer cookies can make a tasty crust. For a lighter version try using Neufchatel cheese in place of regular cream cheese or swap in Greek yogurt for part of the cream. Any fruit jam can be used but strawberry brings that much loved cheesecake shop appeal.

Serving Suggestions

Strawberry cheesecake bars are great for picnics potlucks and brunch tables. Serve them on a platter and garnish with extra sliced strawberries mint leaves or a dusting of powdered sugar. They pair beautifully with coffee or even a light sparkling wine for a grown up treat.

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Cultural Context

Classic cheesecake has its roots in ancient Greece but the bar form is definitely an American innovation perfect for family gatherings and busy schedules. Adding a jammy strawberry topping nods to beloved diner style desserts found coast to coast.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I use store-bought graham cracker crumbs?

Yes, store-bought graham cracker crumbs work well and save time when preparing the crust.

→ How long should the bars chill before serving?

Let the bars chill for at least 8-12 hours to ensure they set properly for clean slicing.

→ Can I substitute the strawberry jam with fresh berries?

Absolutely! Fresh sliced strawberries or a homemade compote make a tasty alternative topping.

→ Is it possible to make the bars ahead of time?

Yes, preparing the bars a day ahead enhances the texture and makes serving even easier.

→ How do I achieve neat slices?

Use a sharp knife, wiping it clean between each cut to maintain smooth edges.