Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars
Highlighted under: Dessert Lover’s Collection
Indulge in the delightful combination of creamy cheesecake and fresh strawberries with these Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars. Perfect for any occasion!
These Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars combine the best of both worlds: the lightness of shortcake and the richness of cheesecake, all enhanced by the vibrant flavor of fresh strawberries. Perfect for gatherings, they are sure to impress your guests!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich strawberry flavor with a creamy cheesecake layer
- Buttery shortcake crust that melts in your mouth
- Perfect for summer picnics or as a delightful dessert
A Perfect Summer Dessert
Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars are the quintessential summer dessert that brings the taste of fresh fruit and creamy cheesecake together in a delightful way. With their vibrant strawberry topping and buttery shortcake crust, these bars are not only visually appealing but also incredibly delicious. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these bars are sure to impress your family and friends.
The combination of flavors in these cheesecake bars captures the essence of summer. The sweet, juicy strawberries paired with the rich cheesecake create a harmony that dances on your palate. Each bite offers a refreshing contrast, making them an ideal treat for warm weather. Plus, they are easy to prepare, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the company of your loved ones.
Easy to Make Ahead
One of the best aspects of Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars is that they can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for meal prep or special occasions. You can prepare the crust and filling a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully overnight. This not only saves time on the day of your event but also enhances the overall taste and texture of the bars.
Simply store the assembled cheesecake bars in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve them. When you're ready to impress your guests, just add the fresh strawberry topping and slice them into bars. This makes them an excellent option for potlucks, picnics, and gatherings where you want to provide a delicious dessert without the last-minute rush.
Customizable for Your Taste
Another great benefit of this recipe is its versatility. While the classic combination of strawberries and cheesecake is hard to beat, you can easily customize these bars to suit your taste preferences. Swap out strawberries for your favorite berries, such as blueberries or raspberries, to create a different flavor profile. You can also add a hint of lemon or orange zest to the cheesecake filling for a refreshing citrus twist.
Feel free to experiment with the crust as well. If you prefer a graham cracker crust or a nut-based crust, simply substitute the ingredients accordingly. The options are endless, allowing you to make these cheesecake bars uniquely yours while still retaining their delicious charm.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
For the Topping
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Make sure to use fresh strawberries for the best flavor!
Instructions
Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine flour, softened butter, sugar, salt, and vanilla. Mix until crumbly. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9x9 inch baking dish.
Bake the Crust
Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Combine and Bake
Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust. Bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly jiggles in the center. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, combine sliced strawberries with granulated sugar. Let them sit for 10 minutes to release their juices.
Serve
Once the cheesecake has cooled, top it with the sugared strawberries. Cut into bars and serve chilled.
Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars!
Storing Your Cheesecake Bars
To ensure the freshness of your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to five days, making them a perfect treat for the week. If you find yourself with leftovers, you can also freeze them for longer storage. Cut the bars into individual portions, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months.
When you're ready to enjoy your frozen bars, simply transfer them to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. This way, you can savor the delicious flavors of summer even in the cooler months.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars, presentation is key. Consider garnishing each bar with a dollop of whipped cream and a fresh strawberry on top for an elegant touch. You could also drizzle a little chocolate or caramel sauce over the bars for added sweetness and visual appeal.
Pair these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of yogurt to create a more decadent dessert experience. The creamy ice cream complements the rich cheesecake while the coolness enhances the refreshing fruit topping.
Nutrition Insights
While these bars are undoubtedly a treat, it's good to keep in mind their nutritional aspects. The use of fresh strawberries not only adds natural sweetness but also provides essential vitamins and antioxidants, making this dessert a slightly healthier option compared to many others. Cream cheese, while rich, also contains calcium and protein, contributing to a balanced indulgence.
As with any dessert, moderation is key. Enjoy these Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars as a part of a balanced diet, and don’t hesitate to share them with friends and family to spread the joy of this delicious treat!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, you can substitute fresh strawberries with frozen ones, just ensure they are thawed and drained well.
→ How do I store leftover bars?
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I use a different fruit?
Absolutely! You can replace strawberries with other berries like blueberries or raspberries.
→ Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Yes, just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars
Indulge in the delightful combination of creamy cheesecake and fresh strawberries with these Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars. Perfect for any occasion!
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Dessert Lover’s Collection
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 bars
What You'll Need
For the Crust
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
For the Topping
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine flour, softened butter, sugar, salt, and vanilla. Mix until crumbly. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9x9 inch baking dish.
Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Finally, stir in the pureed strawberries.
Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust. Bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly jiggles in the center. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
In a small bowl, combine sliced strawberries with granulated sugar. Let them sit for 10 minutes to release their juices.
Once the cheesecake has cooled, top it with the sugared strawberries. Cut into bars and serve chilled.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g