Description
A refreshing and creamy dessert perfect for any occasion, these no-bake strawberry cheesecake bars combine a buttery graham cracker crust with a rich cheesecake filling and a sweet strawberry topping.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 graham crackers)
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar. Stir in the melted butter until everything is well combined and the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch square baking dish or a 9-inch round pan. Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to pack it tightly. Refrigerate the crust while you prepare the filling.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until well combined. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated and smooth. Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the chilled crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top.
- Make the Strawberry Topping: In a small saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries release their juices and the mixture becomes syrupy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let the strawberry topping cool to room temperature. If you’d prefer a smoother topping, you can mash the strawberries lightly with a fork or blend them for a smoother consistency.
- Assemble the Bars: Once the strawberry topping has cooled, spoon it evenly over the cheesecake layer. Refrigerate the bars for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the layers to set.
- Serve: When ready to serve, cut into squares or bars. Enjoy the creamy, refreshing flavor of these no-bake cheesecake bars!
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free graham crackers.
- These bars can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
- Feel free to substitute other fruits for the topping.
- For best results, let the bars chill overnight for a firmer texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg