Introduction
Strawberry shortcake meets creamy cheesecake in this irresistible dessert! Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars combine the sweet, tangy flavor of fresh strawberries, the richness of cheesecake, and the buttery goodness of shortcake crust into a portable and crowd-pleasing treat. Perfect for summer parties, holiday gatherings, or as a mid-week indulgence, these bars offer the best of both worlds in every bite.
In this article, you’ll learn how to make these delectable Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars step by step, along with tips for perfect results every time.
Why You’ll Love Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars
- Multi-Layered Flavor: Combines sweet strawberries, creamy cheesecake, and buttery shortcake for a perfect flavor balance.
- Easy to Make: Requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
- Portable Dessert: Great for sharing at parties, potlucks, or picnics.
- Customizable: Can be adapted with different fruits or toppings.
Ingredients
You’ll need three layers to create these bars: the shortcake crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and the strawberry topping.
For the Shortcake Crust
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup sour cream
For the Strawberry Topping
- 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, diced
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
Optional Garnishes
- Whipped cream
- Crushed shortbread cookies
- Fresh strawberry slices
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shortcake Crust
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- In a bowl, mix the flour, granulated sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract until crumbly.
- Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan to form a firm crust.
- Bake the crust for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream until fully combined.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake Layer
- Bake the cheesecake bars in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set and no longer jiggles.
- Remove from the oven and let the bars cool to room temperature before chilling them in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
Step 4: Prepare the Strawberry Topping
- In a small saucepan, combine the diced strawberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and water.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and resembles a glossy strawberry sauce.
- Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
Step 5: Assemble the Bars
- Spread the cooled strawberry topping evenly over the chilled cheesecake layer.
- Refrigerate for an additional 30 minutes to allow the topping to set.
Step 6: Slice & Serve
- Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the bars out of the pan and place them on a cutting board.
- Slice into squares and garnish with whipped cream, crushed shortbread cookies, or fresh strawberry slices if desired.
Tips for Perfect Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars
- Use Fresh Strawberries: Fresh strawberries provide the best flavor and texture for the topping.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for a smooth filling.
- Chill Completely: Allow enough chilling time for the cheesecake to set properly before slicing.
- Customize Your Crust: Substitute the shortcake crust with graham crackers or digestive biscuits for a different flavor.
- Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Variations to Try
1. Berry Medley Cheesecake Bars
Substitute strawberries with a mix of berries such as blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries for a vibrant and flavorful topping.
2. Chocolate Drizzle Bars
Add a drizzle of melted chocolate over the strawberry topping for a luxurious twist. Use milk, dark, or white chocolate depending on your preference.
3. Coconut Strawberry Bars
Mix shredded coconut into the shortcake crust or sprinkle toasted coconut over the finished bars for a tropical flair.
4. Lemon Zest Infusion
Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the cheesecake filling for a hint of citrus that pairs beautifully with strawberries.
5. Gluten-Free Option
Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these bars suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries?
Yes! Thaw the strawberries and drain any excess liquid before making the topping.
Can I Make This Dessert Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! These bars can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator until serving.
Can I Substitute the Cream Cheese?
You can use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a lactose-free version, though the texture may vary slightly.
Conclusion
Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars are a delightful combination of rich cheesecake, buttery crust, and sweet strawberry topping. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, these bars will quickly become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. With endless customization options and tips for perfect results, this recipe is versatile, delicious, and guaranteed to impress. Try it today and enjoy a sweet, creamy, and fruity indulgence!