Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Bars

These Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Bars combine the richness of creamy cheesecake with a fruity and crispy topping, making them the perfect dessert for any occasion. The smooth cheesecake filling is balanced by the buttery graham cracker crust and the delightful crunch of the strawberry-flavored cereal topping. With fresh strawberries folded into the cheesecake layer, these bars offer a refreshing burst of flavor in every bite. Whether you're serving these at a summer party or enjoying them as an afternoon treat, they're sure to impress.

INGREDIENTS

• Graham cracker crumbs: 1 1/2 cups, finely crushed for the base
• Granulated sugar: 1/4 cup, to add sweetness to the crust
• Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup, melted to bind the crust together
• Cream cheese: 2 (8 oz) packages, softened for a smooth filling
• Granulated sugar: 1 cup, for sweetness in the cheesecake filling
• Vanilla extract: 1 tsp, to enhance the flavor
• Eggs: 2 large eggs, for structure
• Sour cream: 1 cup, for tangy richness
• Heavy cream: 1/2 cup, to add extra creaminess
• Fresh strawberries: 1 cup, diced for a fruity flavor burst
• Strawberry-flavored cereal: 1 cup, crushed for a sweet, crispy topping
• Granulated sugar: 1/4 cup, to sweeten the topping
• Unsalted butter: 1/4 cup, melted for the topping
• All-purpose flour: 1/4 cup, to provide structure to the topping

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 325°F and prepare the crust by combining graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into the bottom of a parchment-lined baking pan and bake for 8 minutes.

Step 2:

Make the cheesecake filling by beating the cream cheese until smooth, adding sugar, vanilla, and eggs. Stir in sour cream, heavy cream, and diced strawberries. Pour over the cooled crust.

Step 3:

For the topping, crush strawberry cereal and combine with melted butter, sugar, and flour. Sprinkle over the cheesecake filling.

Step 4:

Bake the cheesecake bars for 45-50 minutes, then let them cool in the oven with the door slightly open. Refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight before serving.

Serving and Storage Tips

• For best results, chill the bars for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Helpful Notes

• If you want a more intense strawberry flavor, stir in some strawberry puree or jam into the cheesecake filling.
• For an extra-crispy topping, lightly toast the cereal topping before adding it to the cheesecake bars.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Chef Ella suggests cooling the bars in the oven with the door slightly open to prevent cracking and ensure a smooth, even texture.

Making the Perfect Cheesecake Bars

To create the ideal cheesecake bars, ensure that the crust is firm by pre-baking it, and mix the cheesecake filling until smooth and free of lumps. Allow the bars to chill completely for clean, smooth cuts when serving.

FAQs

Can I freeze these cheesecake bars?

Yes, you can freeze them! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Can I use gluten-free graham crackers?

Yes, you can substitute regular graham crackers with gluten-free ones to make this dessert gluten-free.

Do I need to use fresh strawberries?

Fresh strawberries are best, but frozen strawberries can also work. Be sure to thaw and drain them before using.

How long should I chill the bars before serving?

Chill the bars for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best to ensure they fully set before serving.

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Conclusion

Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Bars are the perfect combination of a smooth, creamy cheesecake filling and a crunchy, fruity strawberry-flavored topping. The graham cracker crust provides a buttery base, while the filling is rich and enhanced by fresh strawberries. These bars are topped with a sweet and crispy strawberry cereal mixture, which adds an exciting texture to every bite. Ideal for summer gatherings or as an indulgent treat, these bars are best served chilled to fully enjoy the refreshing balance of flavors and textures.