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Philadelphia Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

Philadelphia Strawberry Cheesecake Bars offer a classic blend of flavors with a rich, creamy filling atop a crunchy graham cracker crust. Topped with a sweet, tangy strawberry layer, these bars are perfect for any dessert lover. They are simple to make and a great treat for any gathering. Follow the steps to prepare these delicious bars and enjoy the classic taste of strawberry cheesecake in a more portable form.

Clare Greco
Updated on Monday 02 December 2024
Philadelphia Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
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Philadelphia Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

Philadelphia Strawberry Cheesecake Bars combine the best of creamy cheesecake with the sweetness of strawberries, all on a buttery graham cracker crust. This American dessert is beloved for its classic taste and straightforward preparation, making it perfect for casual gatherings or special occasions.

INGREDIENTS

  • Graham cracker crumbs: 1 1/2 cups, for a crunchy crust base
  • Granulated sugar: 1/4 cup for the crust, 1 cup for the filling, and 1/4 cup for the topping
  • Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup, melted, to bind the crust
  • Philadelphia cream cheese: 2 (8 oz) packages, softened, for a creamy filling
  • Sour cream: 1/2 cup, for a slight tang in the filling
  • Large eggs: 2, to set the filling
  • Vanilla extract: 1 tsp, for flavor
  • Fresh strawberries: 2 cups, chopped, for a fruity topping
  • Lemon juice: 1 tbsp, to balance the sweetness
  • Cornstarch: 1 tbsp mixed with 2 tbsp water, to thicken the topping

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:
Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
Step 2:
Mix the crust ingredients in a bowl and press into the baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes and let cool.
Step 3:
Prepare the filling by beating cream cheese, then adding sugar, sour cream, vanilla, and eggs. Pour over the cooled crust and bake for 35-40 minutes.
Step 4:
Cook the topping by combining strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch mixture. Let cool.
Step 5:
Spread the topping over chilled cheesecake, lift out using parchment, cut into bars, and serve.

Serving and Storage Tips

  • Chill the bars before serving for the best texture.
  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Helpful Notes

  • Swap graham cracker crumbs with digestive biscuits for a different flavor.
  • Top with extra sliced strawberries for a fresh garnish.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

  • For a firmer crust, chill it in the fridge before adding the filling, as suggested by expert bakers.

Making the Perfect Cheesecake Bars

Achieving the perfect cheesecake bar requires careful attention to cooling and chilling times. Allowing the bars to set properly ensures a smooth, creamy texture.

Adding Variations to Your Cheesecake Bars

Try adding a swirl of chocolate or a drizzle of caramel over the strawberry topping for an extra touch of sweetness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for the topping?

Yes, but thaw them first and drain excess water before cooking.

How can I make the bars gluten-free?

Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs for the crust.

What other toppings can I use?

Blueberries, raspberries, or a mixed berry topping can be used.

Can I prepare these bars in advance?

Yes, they can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the fridge.

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Some more ideas

Philadelphia Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are the perfect dessert for any occasion, combining a rich, creamy filling with a sweet strawberry topping, all set on a buttery graham cracker crust. This American classic is not only delicious but also easy to make, requiring just 20 minutes of preparation and 50 minutes of cooking. Whether served at a party or enjoyed as a family treat, these cheesecake bars will impress with their balance of flavors and textures. They can be refrigerated for up to 5 days, making them convenient for make-ahead serving.

Strawberry Cheesecake

Philadelphia Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are a delicious dessert with a graham cracker crust, creamy filling, and strawberry topping.

Prep Time
20 Minutes
Cook Time
50 Minutes
Total Time
70 Minutes

Category: Sweet Treats

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 12 Servings (12-16 bars)

Dietary: Vegetarian

Ingredients

01 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs.
02 1/4 cup granulated sugar.
03 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted.
04 2 (8 oz) packages Philadelphia cream cheese, softened.
05 1 cup granulated sugar.
06 1/2 cup sour cream.
07 2 large eggs.
08 1 tsp vanilla extract.
09 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped.
10 1/4 cup granulated sugar.
11 1 tbsp lemon juice.
12 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water.

Instructions

Step 01

Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.

Step 02

For the crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Press into the baking dish and bake for 10 minutes. Let cool.

Step 03

For the cheesecake filling: Beat softened cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar, sour cream, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. Add eggs one at a time.

Step 04

Pour filling over the cooled crust and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for 4 hours.

Step 05

For the strawberry topping: Combine chopped strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Cook until boiling, then add the cornstarch mixture and cook until thickened. Let cool.

Step 06

Spread cooled strawberry topping over the chilled cheesecake. Lift using the parchment, cut into bars, and serve.

Notes

  1. Serve the cheesecake bars chilled.
  2. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: ~
  • Total Fat: ~
  • Total Carbohydrate: ~
  • Protein: ~