Strawberry Cheesecake Bars with Graham Cracker Crust

Introduction

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both elegant and comforting, Strawberry Cheesecake Bars with Graham Cracker Crust are a perfect choice. These bars combine the buttery crunch of a graham cracker crust with the smooth, creamy richness of classic cheesecake and a luscious strawberry topping. They’re easier to make than a full cheesecake, yet they deliver the same indulgent flavor in a portable, shareable form.

These cheesecake bars are ideal for holidays, potlucks, birthdays, or even as a sweet treat for weeknights. The bars slice beautifully, making them not only delicious but also convenient for serving at gatherings. With every bite, you get that irresistible balance of crunchy crust, velvety cheesecake, and fruity strawberry topping—a harmony that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it takes the classic flavors of strawberry cheesecake and makes them more approachable and versatile. Cheesecake can sometimes feel intimidating with springform pans, water baths, and cracks on top—but cheesecake bars eliminate most of that stress while still delivering the same creamy perfection.

The graham cracker crust adds just the right crunch, and the fresh strawberry topping makes each bite bright, sweet, and slightly tangy. I also love how these bars can be prepared ahead of time, chilled, and served straight from the refrigerator—making them perfect for planning ahead for special occasions.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Combines three textures in one bite: buttery crust, creamy cheesecake, fruity topping.
• Easier to make than a whole cheesecake—no water bath needed.
• Perfectly portioned and easy to serve.
• Can be made ahead of time, making it great for parties.
• A classic dessert with universal appeal.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Baking Time: 35–40 minutes
• Cooling & Chilling Time: 3 hours
• Total Time: ~4 hours (including chilling)
• Servings: 12–16 bars (depending on size cut)
• Calories: ~280 kcal per bar

Cuisine and Course

• Cuisine: American
• Course: Dessert

Ingredients

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

• 1 ½ cups (150 g) graham cracker crumbs
• ⅓ cup (65 g) granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons (85 g) unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup (120 g) sour cream

For the Strawberry Topping:

• 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, diced
• ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• ½ teaspoon lemon juice

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy lifting.
3. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined.
4. Press firmly into the bottom of the pan to form an even crust.
5. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then let cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
2. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed to avoid overbeating.
3. Stir in vanilla and sour cream until creamy and well combined.
4. Pour mixture evenly over cooled crust.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

• Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
• Remove from oven and let cool completely at room temperature.
• Refrigerate for at least 3 hours to set.

Step 4: Make the Strawberry Topping

1. In a saucepan, combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until berries release juices.
2. In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch with water, then stir into strawberry mixture.
3. Simmer until thickened (about 3–4 minutes).
4. Let cool completely before spreading on cheesecake.

Step 5: Assemble

• Spread cooled strawberry topping evenly over the chilled cheesecake.
• Lift out of the pan using parchment overhang, slice into bars, and serve.

How to Serve

• Serve chilled for the best texture.
• Garnish with extra fresh strawberries or a dollop of whipped cream.
• Perfect as a dessert for parties, picnics, or afternoon coffee.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Make sure cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to avoid lumps.
• Don’t overmix the batter—too much air can cause cracks.
• For neater slices, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean before each cut.
• Always chill the bars for at least 3 hours before slicing.

Variations

• Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Bars: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top.
• Mixed Berry Topping: Use raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries along with strawberries.
• Oreo Crust: Swap graham crackers for crushed Oreos for a richer crust.
• No-Bake Version: Use a no-bake cheesecake filling with whipped cream for a simpler dessert.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Wrap bars individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Special Equipment Needed

• 9×9-inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Saucepan for topping
• Sharp knife for slicing

Conclusion

Strawberry Cheesecake Bars with Graham Cracker Crust are the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves the creamy richness of cheesecake paired with the sweetness of strawberries. They’re easy to prepare, slice beautifully, and are perfect for serving at gatherings or enjoying as a personal indulgence. With their balance of flavor, texture, and presentation, these bars are a dessert you’ll want to make again and again.

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Strawberry Cheesecake Bars with Graham Cracker Crust

Author: Anna Williams Cuisine: American Courses: Desserts

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 20 mins Cook Time 40 mins Total Time 1 hr

Servings: 16 Calories: 280 kcal

Description

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both elegant and comforting, Strawberry Cheesecake Bars with Graham Cracker Crust are a perfect choice.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

• 1 ½ cups (150 g)
• ⅓ cup (65 g)
• 6 tablespoons (85 g)

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz (450 g)
• ½ cup (100 g)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup (120 g)

For the Strawberry Topping:

• 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, diced
• ¼ cup (50 g)
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• ½ teaspoon lemon juice

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare the Crust : Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy lifting. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press firmly into the bottom of the pan to form an even crust. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then let cool slightly.
2. Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling : In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed to avoid overbeating. Stir in vanilla and sour cream until creamy and well combined. Pour mixture evenly over cooled crust.
3. Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake : Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Remove from oven and let cool completely at room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours to set.
4. Step 4: Make the Strawberry Topping : In a saucepan, combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until berries release juices. In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch with water, then stir into strawberry mixture. Simmer until thickened (about 3–4 minutes). Let cool completely before spreading on cheesecake.
5. Step 5: Assemble : Spread cooled strawberry topping evenly over the chilled cheesecake. Lift out of the pan using parchment overhang, slice into bars, and serve.

Keywords: Strawberry Cheesecake Bars with Graham Cracker Crust