Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars

Name: Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; ¼ cup sugar; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 large eggs; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; ¼ cup sugar; 1 tbsp lemon juice

Highlighted under: Sweet Oven Magic

I’m absolutely thrilled to share my recipe for Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars! This treat beautifully combines the lightness of shortcake with the creamy decadence of cheesecake, all while being adorned with fresh strawberries. I love how easy they are to make yet impressive enough for special occasions. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a cheesecake filling, and a strawberry topping, every bite is a delightful experience. These bars are perfect for warm weather gatherings or when you simply crave something sweet and refreshing.

Created by

Lila Morgan

Last updated on 2026-02-23T20:26:36.878Z

When I first made these Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars, I was hosting a summer gathering, and they were an instant hit! The combination of flavors is perfect, and the fresh strawberries provide a burst of sweetness that balances the creamy cheesecake. I found that chilling the bars for a bit longer enhances their texture, making them easier to slice and enjoy.

One secret I discovered along the way is to use a mix of both fresh and frozen strawberries for the topping; it gives the bars a wonderful depth of flavor and color. The result is a dessert that not only looks stunning but tastes divine!

Why You'll Love These Bars
Luscious strawberry flavor that’s pure summer bliss
Creamy cheesecake texture combined with a crunchy crust
Perfect for serving at parties or enjoying on a cozy afternoon

The Importance of the Crust

The crust serves as the foundation for your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars, which is why choosing the right ingredients is crucial. I recommend using freshly crushed graham cracker crumbs, as they provide a more robust flavor compared to store-bought crumbs. The melting process of the butter helps bind the crumbs together, ensuring a optimal texture that holds up well under the cheesecake layer. Press the mixture firmly into the baking dish using the bottom of a measuring cup for an even layer.

Baking the crust is essential for achieving that delightful crunch. Bake it at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, until it turns lightly golden. This not only enhances the flavor but also creates a barrier that prevents the cheesecake filling from soaking into the crust during baking.

Mastering the Cheesecake Filling

The cheesecake filling is the star of this recipe, and achieving that creamy consistency is key. Make sure to completely soften the cream cheese before mixing; I usually leave it out for at least an hour. Use a hand mixer to blend the cream cheese and sugar until it’s smooth and fluffy, which helps incorporate air and results in a lighter filling. Scraping down the sides of the bowl is important to ensure that there's an even mix.

Adding the eggs one at a time is also crucial. This gradual incorporation allows for a stable structure without overmixing, which can lead to cracks in your cheesecake layer. Bake the cheesecake until it’s set in the center but still has a slight jiggle, as it will continue to firm up while cooling.

Fun with the Strawberry Topping

The strawberry topping is not just for decoration; it adds a juicy burst of freshness that complements the richness of the cheesecake. When tossing the sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice, be sure to give them enough time to macerate, about 15-20 minutes. This process enhances their sweetness and creates a syrupy mixture that seeps into the cheesecake without making it soggy.

If you want to switch up the fruit, consider using raspberries or blueberries for a different flavor profile. Both berries will also macerate nicely, although you may need to adjust sugar levels based on the natural sweetness of the berries.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars:

For the Crust

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
¼ cup sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling

16 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 large eggs

For the Strawberry Topping

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
¼ cup sugar
1 tbsp lemon juice

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars:

Make the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Stir until well blended. Press this mixture into the bottom of a greased 9x9-inch baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes then let cool.

Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and mix in the eggs one at a time until just combined. Pour this mixture over the cooled crust. Bake for 30 minutes or until set in the middle. Let it cool completely.

Create the Strawberry Topping

In a small bowl, toss the sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Let them sit for about 15-20 minutes until they release their juices.

Assemble and Chill

Spread the strawberry mixture over the cooled cheesecake layer. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing into bars. Enjoy!

Slice your bars evenly and serve cold for the best experience.

Pro Tips

For an added layer of flavor, consider drizzling a bit of chocolate on top before serving.

Serving Suggestions

These Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars are stunning served chilled, making them the perfect dessert for warm-weather gatherings. You can cut them into squares and place them on a decorative platter. To elevate presentation, consider garnishing with extra fresh strawberries or a dollop of whipped cream on top of each bar. This creates a visual contrast and adds a delightful creaminess with each bite.

For a more interactive dessert experience, consider serving these bars alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold ice cream paired with the rich cheesecake offers a fantastic contrast, and it’s especially refreshing during warmer months.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These cheesecake bars can easily be made a day in advance, and in fact, they taste even better after chilling overnight. Store them covered in the refrigerator to keep the strawberry topping fresh. If you’re making them for a special occasion, prepare the crust and cheesecake filling ahead of time, then top with fresh strawberries right before serving to maintain their vibrant appearance.

If you have leftovers, you can freeze the bars for up to two months. Cut them into squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in an airtight container. To enjoy later, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your cheesecake filling cracks during baking, this usually indicates that it has been overbaked. To prevent cracks, bake until it's just set and has a slight jiggle. Using a water bath while baking can also help to regulate temperature and moisture, leading to a smoother surface.

Another common issue is soggy crust. To avoid this, make sure your crust is fully baked and dry before adding the filling. For added assurance, consider briefly chilling the crust before pouring in the cheesecake mix; this will help keep it crisp.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries instead?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before using.

→ How long can these bars be stored?

They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container.

→ Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs for the crust.

→ What can I use instead of cream cheese?

You can try using mascarpone cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative if desired.