Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Bars are a delightful sweet treat that combines creamy cheesecake with a burst of fruity strawberry flavor. Perfect for gatherings, picnics, or simple family desserts, these bars are easy to make and sure to impress everyone. With a crunchy base and a rich topping, they offer a fantastic blend of textures and flavors.
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Why Make This Recipe
Making Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Bars at home is a great idea for many reasons. First, they are delicious and satisfying, making them perfect for any occasion. Second, the recipe is straightforward, allowing even beginner bakers to succeed. Lastly, you can customize the flavors and toppings to make the recipe your own, giving you room to experiment and have fun in the kitchen.
How to Make Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients:
- 1 1⁄2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1⁄3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1⁄4 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup strawberry jam
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1⁄2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1⁄4 cup light brown sugar
- 1⁄4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh strawberries
Directions:
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish lined with parchment paper.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes or until lightly golden. Let it cool completely.
- In another mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the heavy cream until it is fully combined.
- Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the cooled crust. Use an offset spatula to spread it gently and evenly. Refrigerate for 1 hour to let it set slightly.
- In a small saucepan, combine the strawberry jam and water. Heat it over low heat, stirring often until the jam is smooth and glossy. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- In a food processor, pulse the flour, brown sugar, and cold butter until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. Fold in the chopped fresh strawberries.
- Drizzle the cooled strawberry jam over the chilled cheesecake layer. Sprinkle the streusel mixture evenly over the top. Return to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to set completely.
- Once fully set, slice the bars into squares with a sharp knife. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
How to Serve Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Bars
Serve Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Bars cold for the best flavor. You can place them on a dessert platter and top them with additional fresh strawberries or a drizzle of chocolate syrup if desired. These treats are great for sharing, but you might want to keep a few for yourself!
How to Store Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Bars
To store your Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Bars, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can also freeze them. Just wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Tips to Make Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Bars
- Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature to ensure a smooth filling.
- Let the bars chill overnight for the best texture and flavor.
- If you want more strawberry flavor, try adding more chopped strawberries to the streusel mixture.
Variation
For a twist on the classic flavor, try using different fruit jams, such as raspberry or blueberry. Adjust the fruit toppings based on the season for a fresh touch.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?
Yes, you can use other types of cookies, like Oreo crumbs or vanilla wafers, for a unique flavor.
2. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the bars a day or two in advance. Just store them properly in the refrigerator.
3. What should I do if my cheesecake filling is lumpy?
Make sure to beat the cream cheese well and bring it to room temperature before mixing. This helps achieve a smooth texture.
Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients
For the crust
- 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
For the cheesecake filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened Make sure it’s at room temperature.
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs Add one at a time.
- ¼ cup heavy cream
For the topping
- 1 cup strawberry jam
- 1 tablespoon water
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup light brown sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh strawberries
Instructions
Preparation
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish lined with parchment paper.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes or until lightly golden. Let it cool completely.
- In another mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in heavy cream until fully combined.
- Pour cheesecake filling evenly over the cooled crust. Spread gently and evenly using an offset spatula. Refrigerate for 1 hour to let it set slightly.
- In a small saucepan, combine strawberry jam and water. Heat over low heat, stirring often until jam is smooth and glossy. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- In a food processor, pulse flour, brown sugar, and cold butter until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. Fold in the chopped fresh strawberries.
- Drizzle the cooled strawberry jam over the chilled cheesecake layer. Sprinkle the streusel mixture evenly over the top.
- Return to refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to set completely.
- Once fully set, slice the bars into squares with a sharp knife.
