Is there anything better than a dessert that combines the creaminess of cheesecake with the sweetness of fresh strawberries? Strawberry Cheesecake Bars bring together all the best elements of a classic cheesecake, topped with a delightful strawberry filling and a buttery oatmeal crumble. With a golden graham cracker crust as the base, these bars are the ultimate treat for any occasion.

Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a holiday, or simply satisfying a sweet craving, these bars will win over anyone who takes a bite. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make—even for novice bakers!

Why You’ll Fall in Love with Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

These bars are everything a dessert should be: sweet, creamy, and bursting with flavor. The graham cracker crust provides the perfect base, the cheesecake layer is smooth and rich, and the strawberry filling is refreshingly fruity. To top it off, the oatmeal crumble adds a satisfying crunch. This dessert isn’t just delicious; it’s also visually stunning, making it perfect for sharing or serving at gatherings.

Ingredients for Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious bars:

For the Crust:

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 15 crackers)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• ¼ cup butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Strawberry Filling:

• 3 cups strawberries, hulled and chopped
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ tablespoons cornstarch

For the Oatmeal Crumble:

• 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 6 tablespoons cold butter, diced

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring that the edges hang over for easy removal later.

Step 2: Make the Crust

• Combine the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar in a medium bowl.
• Pour in the melted butter and mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
• Press the mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
• Bake for 8 minutes, then set aside to cool.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

• In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

Step 4: Make the Strawberry Filling

• Add the chopped strawberries and lemon juice to a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
• Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries release their juices and start to break down.
• In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cornstarch. Stir this mixture into the strawberries and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until thickened. Remove from heat and let cool.

Step 5: Prepare the Oatmeal Crumble

• In a large bowl, combine the oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
• Use a pastry cutter or fork to cut the cold butter into the mixture until it resembles small pebbles.

Step 6: Assemble the Bars

• Pour the cheesecake mixture over the baked crust and spread it evenly.
• Gently layer the strawberry filling over the cheesecake mixture, spreading it out with a spatula.
• Sprinkle the oatmeal crumble over the top, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.

Step 7: Bake the Bars

• Bake the assembled bars for 50–70 minutes, or until the crumble is golden brown and the cheesecake is set.

Step 8: Cool and Chill

• Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for 30–60 minutes.
• Transfer the pan to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours (or overnight) before slicing into squares.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

1. Use Room-Temperature Ingredients:
   Let your cream cheese and egg come to room temperature before mixing. This ensures a smoother, creamier cheesecake layer.
2. Avoid Overmixing:
   Overmixing the cheesecake batter can introduce too much air, leading to cracks during baking.
3. Chill Before Slicing:
   Chilling the bars is essential for achieving clean slices. Patience is key!
4. Customize Your Crumble:
   Add chopped nuts or shredded coconut to the oatmeal crumble for extra texture and flavor.
5. Fresh or Frozen Strawberries:
   Fresh strawberries work best, but you can use frozen strawberries if needed. Just make sure to thaw and drain them first.

Nutritional Information (Per Bar)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	350
Protein	5g
Fat	18g
Carbohydrates	43g
Fiber	2g
Sugar	28g

FAQs About Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

1. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes! These bars taste even better the next day after chilling in the fridge.

2. How should I store these bars?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

3. Can I freeze the bars?
Absolutely! Freeze individual slices in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

4. Can I substitute the graham cracker crust?
Sure! Try a cookie crust using crushed vanilla wafers, digestive biscuits, or even Oreos.

5. Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries?
Definitely! Blueberries, raspberries, or a mix of berries work beautifully in this recipe.

6. What’s the best way to cut clean slices?
Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water and wipe the blade clean between cuts.

Why These Bars Are Worth Making

Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are the perfect combination of creamy, fruity, and crunchy. They’re elegant enough for special occasions yet easy enough for everyday indulgence. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is simple to follow and guarantees rave reviews.

Conclusion: Time to Treat Yourself!

Ready to bake the most delicious dessert ever? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and whip up a batch of Strawberry Cheesecake Bars. With their luscious layers and irresistible flavor, they’re sure to become a new favorite in your household.

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