Strawberry Crumble Cheesecake Bars: Sweet and Creamy Dessert Bars Recipe

When it comes to indulgent desserts, strawberry crumble cheesecake bars strike the perfect balance between creamy, fruity, and buttery. Imagine layers of rich, smooth cheesecake sitting atop a crisp, buttery crust, topped with fresh strawberries and a crumble topping that adds the perfect amount of sweetness and texture. These cheesecake bars are the perfect combination of flavors, and they’re easy to make!

This dessert is ideal for family gatherings, picnics, or any occasion where you need a treat that looks as beautiful as it tastes. Whether you’re a fan of fruity desserts or creamy cheesecake, these strawberry crumble cheesecake bars deliver both in every bite. Plus, they’re simple to prepare, which means you can focus on enjoying them rather than spending hours in the kitchen.

In this article, we’ll walk you through every detail of the recipe, share some pro tips for perfect results, and answer some frequently asked questions. Get ready to learn how to make the most decadent strawberry cheesecake bars that will wow your friends and family!

Why You’ll Love Strawberry Crumble Cheesecake Bars

There are many reasons why strawberry crumble cheesecake bars should be on your radar for your next dessert. Let’s break down why this dessert is a true crowd-pleaser:

1. The Perfect Combination of Flavors: The creamy cheesecake layer, the sweet strawberries, and the buttery crumble topping work together beautifully to create a dessert that’s both rich and refreshing. The fresh strawberries provide a slight tartness, balancing the sweetness of the crumble and the richness of the cheesecake.
2. Easy to Make: These cheesecake bars require just a few simple ingredients, and the recipe is straightforward. While the layers may seem intricate, they’re all easy to assemble. Plus, they bake in just about 40 minutes, leaving you with more time to relax!
3. Versatile: Although the recipe calls for fresh strawberries, you can easily swap them out for other fruits such as raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries, depending on what’s in season. The crumble and cheesecake layers remain just as delicious regardless of the fruit you choose.
4. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer picnic, a holiday gathering, or a cozy family dinner, strawberry crumble cheesecake bars make an excellent dessert. They’re easy to serve in squares, so they’re perfect for sharing.
5. Make Ahead Option: These bars are even better when made a day or two in advance. The flavors have time to meld together, and the texture becomes even more firm, making them ideal for prepping ahead of time for parties or events.

Ingredients for Strawberry Crumble Cheesecake Bars

Let’s start by gathering all the ingredients you’ll need to make this irresistible dessert. This recipe is divided into three parts: the crust & crumble, the cheesecake layer, and the strawberry layer. Here’s everything you’ll need:

For the Crust & Crumble:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: This provides the base for the crust and crumble.
• ½ cup rolled oats: The oats add texture and a slightly nutty flavor to the crumble topping.
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed: Brown sugar provides a rich, molasses-like sweetness to the crust and crumble.
• ½ tsp cinnamon: A warm spice that enhances the flavor of the crust and crumble.
• ¼ tsp salt: A pinch of salt brings out the sweetness and balances the flavors.
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted: The butter binds the dry ingredients together and helps create that delicious, rich crumble texture.

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened: The base for the creamy cheesecake filling.
• ½ cup granulated sugar: To sweeten the cheesecake filling without overpowering the other flavors.
• 2 large eggs: Eggs help set the cheesecake and create a smooth, creamy texture.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor of the cheesecake filling.

For the Strawberry Layer:

• 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, diced: Fresh strawberries add a vibrant flavor and juicy texture.
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar: Helps macerate the strawberries, drawing out their juices and sweetening them.
• 1 tbsp cornstarch: Helps thicken the strawberry filling and prevents it from becoming too watery.
• 1 tbsp lemon juice: The acidity of lemon juice brightens the strawberries and balances the sweetness.

Instructions for Making Strawberry Crumble Cheesecake Bars

With all your ingredients ready, it’s time to get started! Follow these steps to create the most delicious strawberry crumble cheesecake bars:

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal after baking.

2. Make the Crust and Crumble

• In a medium bowl, combine flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
• Stir in the melted butter until the mixture becomes crumbly.
• Press 2/3 of the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust. This will create the base for your cheesecake bars.
• Reserve the remaining crumble mixture for the topping.
• Bake the crust for about 10 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and set aside.

3. Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

• In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth.
• Add granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until the mixture is creamy and well combined.
• Pour the cheesecake mixture over the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

4. Make the Strawberry Layer

• In a small bowl, toss the diced strawberries with granulated sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. This helps the strawberries release their juices and become a thicker, more flavorful topping.
• Spoon the strawberry mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer, making sure the strawberries are spread out.

5. Add the Crumble Topping

• Sprinkle the reserved crumble mixture over the top of the strawberries. This creates the final crumbly layer that gives the bars their name.

6. Bake

• Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown. The cheesecake should be firm, and the crumble topping should be crispy and browned.

7. Cool and Refrigerate

• Let the bars cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours before slicing. Chilling the bars ensures that they set properly and makes them easier to cut into neat squares.

8. Serve

• Once chilled, remove the bars from the pan using the parchment paper overhang.
• Cut into squares and serve chilled. Optional: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with white chocolate for a finishing touch.

Tips for Perfect Strawberry Crumble Cheesecake Bars

1. Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before using it. This will help you achieve a smooth, lump-free cheesecake layer.
2. Chill Before Cutting: These bars need to be thoroughly chilled before slicing. This step ensures that they hold their shape and are easy to cut into neat, square pieces.
3. Customize the Fruit: While strawberries are the star of this recipe, you can easily swap them out for other berries like raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries depending on what you have available.
4. Add a Drizzle: For an extra touch of sweetness and elegance, drizzle the bars with a little white chocolate or caramel sauce before serving.
5. Serve at Room Temperature: These bars taste best when served slightly chilled, but not ice-cold. Let them sit out for a few minutes before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Strawberry Crumble Cheesecake Bars

1. Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but fresh strawberries work best for this recipe. If you use frozen strawberries, make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid to avoid a soggy layer.

2. How do I store the leftover cheesecake bars?

Store the leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months if you want to save them for later.

3. Can I make this recipe in a larger pan?

Yes, you can double the recipe and bake it in a 9×13-inch baking dish. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly, so keep an eye on it.

4. Can I use gluten-free flour for the crust?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour if you need a gluten-free option.

5. Can I add other toppings to the bars?

Definitely! You can add whipped cream, chopped nuts, or even a few extra fresh berries on top for added texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Strawberry crumble cheesecake bars are the ultimate dessert for any occasion. With their creamy cheesecake layer, juicy strawberries, and buttery crumble topping, they’re sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them. Whether you’re making them for a special event or just as a treat for yourself, these bars offer a delicious combination of textures and flavors that everyone will love.

With the step-by-step guide provided above, you now have everything you need to make these irresistible bars. So, gather your ingredients, follow the instructions, and enjoy the sweet satisfaction of homemade cheesecake bars!

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