Indulge in the delightful combination of creamy cheesecake and sweet strawberries with these strawberry cheesecake bars. Perfect for any occasion, these bars are easy to make and sure to impress your family and friends.
While most of the ingredients for this recipe are common pantry staples, you may need to pick up graham cracker crumbs and strawberry jam if they are not already in your kitchen. Make sure to get high-quality cream cheese for the best texture and flavor.
Ingredients for Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Graham cracker crumbs: Crushed graham crackers used as the base for the crust.
Melted butter: Helps bind the graham cracker crumbs together.
Sugar: Adds sweetness to both the crust and the filling.
Cream cheese: The main ingredient for the cheesecake filling, providing a rich and creamy texture.
Eggs: Helps to set the cheesecake filling.
Vanilla extract: Adds a hint of vanilla flavor to the filling.
Strawberry jam: Swirled into the cheesecake filling for a burst of strawberry flavor.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
When swirling the strawberry jam into the cheesecake filling, use a toothpick or a skewer to create a marbled effect. This not only ensures an even distribution of the jam but also adds a visually appealing design to your cheesecake bars. Be careful not to overmix, as you want distinct swirls rather than a fully blended mixture.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
graham cracker crumbs - Substitute with digestive biscuit crumbs: Digestive biscuits have a similar texture and flavor, making them a great alternative for the crust.
melted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar binding effect and adds a subtle coconut flavor that complements the strawberry.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds natural sweetness and a slightly different flavor profile, which can enhance the overall taste.
softened cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt offers a tangy flavor and creamy texture, making it a healthier alternative.
sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup provides a natural sweetness and a unique flavor that pairs well with strawberries.
eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoon water per egg) work as a binding agent and are a great vegan alternative.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract offers a different but complementary flavor that can add a unique twist to the cheesecake bars.
strawberry jam - Substitute with raspberry jam: Raspberry jam provides a similar texture and a slightly tart flavor that can be a delightful variation.
Other Alternative Recipes
How to Store or Freeze These Bars
Allow the strawberry cheesecake bars to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This ensures the filling sets properly and prevents condensation from forming inside the storage container.
Once cooled, cut the bars into individual servings. This makes it easier to grab a piece whenever you crave a sweet treat.
Place the bars in an airtight container. If stacking the bars, separate each layer with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
Store the container in the refrigerator. The bars will stay fresh for up to 5 days, maintaining their creamy texture and delightful strawberry flavor.
For longer storage, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap. Then, place the wrapped bars in a freezer-safe bag or container. This method helps preserve their taste and texture.
When freezing, ensure the bars are placed in a single layer initially. Once frozen solid, you can stack them to save space.
To enjoy frozen bars, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing process helps maintain the integrity of the cheesecake filling and the graham cracker crust.
If you're in a hurry, you can also thaw the bars at room temperature for about 30 minutes. However, be mindful not to leave them out too long to avoid any risk of spoilage.
For an extra touch of freshness, add a dollop of whipped cream or a few fresh strawberries on top of each bar before serving. This not only enhances the presentation but also complements the rich, creamy flavor of the cheesecake.
How to Reheat Leftovers
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the strawberry cheesecake bars on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with aluminum foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps maintain the creamy texture of the cheesecake without drying it out.
Use a microwave for a quicker option. Place a single cheesecake bar on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat, as the cream cheese filling can become too soft and lose its structure.
For a more controlled reheating, use a double boiler. Place the cheesecake bars in a heatproof dish and set it over a pot of simmering water. Cover the dish and heat for about 5-10 minutes. This gentle method ensures the cheesecake warms evenly without becoming too soft.
If you prefer a cold treat, you can enjoy the strawberry cheesecake bars straight from the refrigerator. Simply let them sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to soften slightly before serving. This method keeps the strawberry jam and cream cheese filling firm and refreshing.
Best Tools for This Recipe
Oven: Used to preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake the crust and cheesecake bars.
Mixing bowl: Used to mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar for the crust.
Spatula: Used to press the crust mixture into the bottom of the baking pan.
Baking pan: Used to hold the crust and cheesecake filling while baking.
Electric mixer: Used to beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and to incorporate the eggs and vanilla extract.
Measuring cups: Used to measure the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and strawberry jam.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure the vanilla extract.
Cooling rack: Used to cool the baked crust and the finished cheesecake bars.
Knife: Used to swirl the strawberry jam into the cheesecake filling.
Cutting board: Used as a surface to cut the cooled cheesecake into bars.
How to Save Time on This Recipe
Prepare ingredients ahead: Measure and set out all ingredients before starting. This streamlines the process and ensures you have everything you need.
Use a food processor: Quickly crush graham crackers into crumbs using a food processor. This saves time compared to manual crushing.
Room temperature cream cheese: Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature. It mixes more easily and creates a smoother filling.
Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven while preparing the crust. This way, it's ready to go when you are.
Line the baking pan: Use parchment paper to line the baking pan. It makes removing the bars easier and reduces cleanup time.
Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients
Crust
- 1.5 cups Graham Cracker Crumbs
- 0.5 cups Melted Butter
- 0.25 cups Sugar
Filling
- 16 oz Cream Cheese softened
- 0.75 cups Sugar
- 2 large Eggs
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 1 cup Strawberry Jam
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl. Press into the bottom of a baking pan.
- Bake crust for 10 minutes. Let cool.
- Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla extract.
- Pour filling over cooled crust. Swirl strawberry jam into the filling.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until set. Cool completely before cutting into bars.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
Suggested Appetizers and Main Courses
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