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If you’re looking for a dessert that brings together the creamy richness of cheesecake with the bright, sweet burst of strawberries, you’ve just found your new favorite treat. The Philadelphia Strawberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe is a delightful showstopper that’s simple enough for a weekday treat but elegant enough to wow at any gathering. With a buttery graham cracker crust, velvety cream cheese filling mingled with a strawberry swirl, and the option of fresh strawberries on top, these bars deliver the perfect combination of texture, flavor, and a pop of color that’s impossible to resist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these straightforward yet carefully chosen ingredients is the first step toward a sensational dessert. Each component plays a crucial role: from the crumbly, buttery base to the silky smooth filling and the luscious strawberry topping, every bit builds layers of flavor and texture that make this recipe shine.
- Graham cracker crumbs (1 1/2 cups): The foundation of the crust that offers a satisfyingly crunchy texture and subtle sweetness.
- Granulated sugar (1/4 cup + 1/2 cup): Adds just the right amount of sweetness to both the crust and the cheesecake filling.
- Unsalted butter, melted (1/2 cup): Binds the graham cracker crumbs for a rich, buttery crust that holds together perfectly.
- Philadelphia cream cheese (16 oz), softened: The star ingredient that ensures a creamy, smooth cheesecake base.
- Large eggs (2): Provide structure and silkiness to the cheesecake filling without overwhelming richness.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the flavor with a warm, inviting note.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Adds subtle tang and ensures a moist, tender texture for the bars.
- Strawberry preserves or jam (1 cup): Creates those gorgeous swirls of sweet strawberry flavor throughout the cheesecake.
- Fresh strawberries, sliced (1 cup, optional): A fresh and vibrant topping that brings brightness and extra fruity flair to your bars.
How to Make Philadelphia Strawberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C) and lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal later. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand, then firmly press it into the bottom of your prepared pan to form an even crust layer. If you want a firmer crust that holds up perfectly under the creamy layer, bake it for 8 minutes before moving on to the filling.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened Philadelphia cream cheese until it’s luxuriously smooth and creamy. Add 1/2 cup of sugar and continue mixing until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, pour in the vanilla extract and sour cream, blending until everything is just combined. The result should be a silky, velvety batter ready to become the cheesecake layer.
Step 3: Combine and Swirl
Pour the cheesecake batter evenly over the crust in your baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Next, dollop spoonfuls of strawberry preserves across the surface and use a knife to gently swirl the preserves into the batter. This will create beautiful red ribbons of strawberry flavor that bake right into the bars, giving you that signature look and taste.
Step 4: Bake and Chill
Bake your bars in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the center looks set but still slightly jiggly—perfectly creamy inside. After baking, allow the bars to cool completely to room temperature before placing them in the refrigerator. Chill for at least 3 hours to let the cheesecake firm up, making slicing easier and enhancing the flavors.
Step 5: Add Fresh Strawberries and Serve
Before serving, if you like, scatter fresh sliced strawberries over the top. They add a lovely fresh burst and make these bars look even more inviting. Now, slice into 12 generous pieces and prepare for compliments!
How to Serve Philadelphia Strawberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar over the bars adds a touch of elegance without overshadowing the vibrant strawberry swirls. Fresh mint leaves can also bring a pop of green and refreshing aroma that pairs beautifully with the sweet and tangy elements. For an extra indulgent touch, a drizzle of melted white chocolate complements the creamy cheesecake beautifully.
Side Dishes
Philadelphia Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are a star on their own, but pairing them with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or lightly whipped cream can elevate the experience even more. Fresh fruit salad makes a lovely companion, especially during warmer months, balancing sweetness with natural freshness. A hot cup of coffee or a crisp herbal tea also complements the rich and tangy flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress guests? Serve these bars on a rustic wooden board lined with parchment paper. Use a decorative spatula to serve each bar for a polished look. You can also layer slices in clear dessert jars with whipped cream and extra jam for a pretty, portable treat. For parties, consider doubling the recipe and making a cheesecake bar platter decorated with whole strawberries and edible flowers for a stunning presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These bars keep beautifully in the refrigerator, tightly covered with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. They will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 4 days, making them ideal for planning ahead or enjoying over several days without losing that luscious texture and taste.
Freezing
If you want to make these bars a real crowd-pleaser, they freeze wonderfully. Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months and thawed overnight in the fridge. Freezing preserves the creamy, dreamy texture, so you can enjoy them anytime your craving strikes.
Reheating
Cheesecake bars are best served cold or at room temperature, but if you prefer a slightly softer texture, allow them to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, which can change the texture unfavorably. Instead, patience rewards you with the perfect bite every time.
FAQs
Can I use other fruit preserves besides strawberry?
Absolutely! Raspberry or cherry preserves would work wonderfully and offer a new twist while maintaining that beautiful swirl effect in the cheesecake filling. Feel free to experiment with your favorite berry flavors.
Is it necessary to use Philadelphia cream cheese?
While Philadelphia cream cheese is known for its smoothness and consistency, any good-quality cream cheese will do. Just be sure it’s softened before mixing to avoid lumps and ensure the creamiest texture.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes! Replace the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free graham or cookie crumbs, and make sure your preserves are gluten-free as well. The rest of the recipe is naturally gluten-free.
How do I prevent cracks in the cheesecake bars?
Mix the batter only until combined and avoid overbeating. Also, bake at a low temperature (325°F/160°C) and allow the bars to cool gradually. This gentle process helps avoid cracking and keeps your bars perfectly smooth.
Do I have to refrigerate the bars before serving?
Yes, chilling the bars for at least 3 hours is crucial. It allows the cheesecake to set firmly, making the bars easier to cut and enhancing the flavors. Cutting them too soon might result in a messy, under-set filling.
Final Thoughts
There is just something incredibly satisfying about the Philadelphia Strawberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe—its balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors, along with the delightful texture contrasts, makes it a perennial favorite. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing friends, these bars are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and enjoy every luscious bite that feels like a little moment of happiness on your plate.
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Philadelphia Strawberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these luscious Philadelphia Strawberry Cheesecake Bars featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling swirled with sweet strawberry preserves, and optional fresh strawberry topping. Perfectly baked to achieve a smooth and set center, these bars are a crowd-pleasing American dessert that’s both simple to prepare and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz Philadelphia cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Topping
- 1 cup strawberry preserves or jam
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and pan: Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the bars after baking.
- Make the crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and melted unsalted butter. Mix thoroughly until the mixture resembles wet sand, then press it firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to create the crust layer.
- Mix the cheesecake filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened Philadelphia cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add 1/2 cup sugar and continue mixing until the mixture is fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring full incorporation after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until the filling is smooth and well combined.
- Assemble batter and swirl: Pour the cheesecake batter over the prepared crust, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even layer. Spoon dollops of strawberry preserves over the batter and gently swirl with a knife or skewer to create a marbled effect without fully blending the preserves into the filling.
- Bake the bars: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the center is just set and slightly jiggly but not liquid. Avoid overbaking to keep the filling creamy.
- Cool and chill: Allow the bars to cool to room temperature completely. Cover the pan and refrigerate for at least 3 hours to set the cheesecake firmly before slicing.
- Add fresh strawberries and serve: Before serving, optionally top the bars with fresh sliced strawberries for an extra burst of freshness and appealing presentation. Cut into 12 bars and enjoy.
Notes
- For a firmer and more stable crust, pre-bake the graham cracker crust for 8 minutes before adding the cheesecake filling.
- Use seedless strawberry jam for a smoother, more even swirl effect in the cheesecake filling.
- The bars can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Allow bars to return to room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving for the best flavor and texture.
