Description
Looking for a dessert that’s as gorgeous as it is delicious? These Strawberry Cheesecake Bars deliver everything you love about cheesecake in a convenient, shareable form. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a rich and creamy cheesecake layer, a sweet strawberry filling, and a crumbly oatmeal topping, these bars are the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or indulging yourself, they’re sure to impress!
Ingredients
- Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 15 crackers)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 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
- 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
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving enough overhang for easy removal. - Make the Crust:
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar. Add the melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 8 minutes, then let it cool slightly. - Prepare the Cheesecake Layer:
In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Set aside. - Cook the Strawberry Filling:
In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries and lemon juice. Cook over medium-high heat for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries release their juices.
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cornstarch. Add this mixture to the strawberries and stir continuously for 2 minutes, or until the filling thickens. Remove from heat and let cool. - Make the Oatmeal Crumble:
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add the diced butter and use a pastry cutter or fork to blend it into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. - Assemble the Bars:
Spread the cheesecake layer evenly over the baked crust. Spoon the strawberry filling over the cheesecake layer, spreading it gently to cover the surface. Sprinkle the oatmeal crumble evenly over the top. - Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 50–70 minutes, or until the oatmeal crumble is golden brown and the cheesecake layer is set. - 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 (preferably overnight) before slicing. - Slice and Serve:
Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Slice into 9 squares and serve chilled.
Notes
- Make Ahead: These bars taste even better the next day, so feel free to prepare them a day in advance.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing Instructions: Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
- Substitutions: Swap strawberries for blueberries, raspberries, or mixed berries for a new twist.
- Cutting Clean Slices: Dip a sharp knife in warm water and wipe it clean between cuts for perfect slices.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American