Philadelphia Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

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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Conclusion

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.