Oh, let me tell you about these Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars! Seriously, if there’s a dessert that brings back sweet memories of summer picnics and family gatherings, this is it. I first stumbled upon this delightful creation at a friend’s backyard barbecue, and I was instantly transfixed by the layers of buttery shortcake, rich cheesecake, and luscious strawberries. I mean, who wouldn’t want to dive into a slice of that goodness?
What I love most about these bars is that they combine the best of two worlds: the classic strawberry shortcake and a creamy cheesecake. They are perfect for any occasion, whether you need a refreshing dessert for a summer party or something special for a holiday gathering. Plus, they’re super easy to make! So grab your mixer, and let me take you through this delicious journey.
What’s in Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars?
Let’s chat about the star ingredients that make these bars truly scrumptious:
Graham Crackers: These little gems form a crumbly, sweet base that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheesecake. I usually grab the Honey Maid brand for that extra hint of sweetness.
Butter: Melted butter adds richness and binds the crust together. Just make sure it’s unsalted; trust me, you want to control that salt level yourself!
Sugar: We need this to sweeten both the crust and the cheesecake filling. If you like things extra sweet, feel free to adjust this according to your taste buds!
Cream Cheese: This is the foundation of our cheesecake layer, bringing that luscious creaminess and tanginess that makes cheesecake oh-so-delicious. I recommend using full-fat cream cheese for the best flavor and texture.
Sour Cream: This helps to give the cheesecake a light tang, making it taste even more exquisite. Full-fat sour cream works wonderfully here.
Vanilla Extract: The secret ingredient that elevates the flavor of the cheesecake! Always go for pure vanilla extract whenever you can; it makes a world of difference.
Fresh Strawberries: Can’t have strawberry shortcake without strawberries! Fresh, juicy strawberries are a must. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even experiment with other berries.
Is Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars Good for You?
Let’s keep it real; while these bars are wonderfully indulgent, they are also quite rich!
Fresh Strawberries: The bright berries are not just delicious; they’re also packed with Vitamin C and antioxidants. Plus, they give a lovely freshness to the rich cheesecake.
Cream Cheese: While it’s creamy and delicious, keep in mind it is high in calories and fat, so moderation is key.
Sugar: I won’t lie; these bars do have their fair share of sugar. It’s best to enjoy them as an occasional treat rather than a daily dessert.
So, as long as you enjoy these bars in moderation, you can revel in their delightful flavors without too much guilt!
Ingredients List
– 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
– ¼ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
– 2 (8 oz) packages of cream cheese, softened
– ½ cup sour cream
– 1 cup granulated sugar (for the cheesecake layer)
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
This recipe serves about 12 bars, depending on how generous you are with your slices!
How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and ¼ cup sugar until well mixed. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a crust.
3. In another mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add in the sour cream, 1 cup sugar, and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
4. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust, and smooth it out evenly with a spatula.
5. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the edges are slightly puffed, and the center is set but still a little jiggly.
6. Remove from the oven and allow to cool. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or until fully chilled.
7. When you’re ready to serve, top with the sliced strawberries and cut into bars.
8. Enjoy your delicious creation and see everyone’s faces light up with joy!
Delightful Variations and Tips
– If you want to simplify things even further, you can use a store-bought cheesecake filling instead of making your own. Just make sure it’s a good quality brand.
– Feeling a bit adventurous? You can mix in other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.
– These bars can also be frozen! Individually wrap them in plastic wrap and keep in an airtight container for up to 2 months. They’re perfect for a quick dessert fix anytime!
I can’t wait for you to try these Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars. They’re sure to become a favorite in your household, just like they are in mine! Be sure to let me know how they turn out; I love hearing from my fellow bakers. Enjoy and happy baking! 🍓