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 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 3 large eggs; 1/4 cup sour cream; 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced; 1/4 cup strawberry preserves

Highlighted under: Sweet Temptations

I absolutely love making Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars because they beautifully combine the classic flavors of strawberry shortcake with the creamy texture of cheesecake. Each bite is a perfect blend of sweetness and tartness, making it an ideal treat for any occasion. I enjoy crafting these bars during summer gatherings, and I especially love how the fresh strawberries add vibrancy to the rich cheesecake layer. These bars are incredibly easy to prepare and always impress my friends and family!

Created by

Chantel Rivers

Last updated on 2026-02-23T21:29:37.020Z

My kitchen transformed into a hub of delicious aromas when I decided to experiment with Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars. I wanted to create a dessert that encapsulates the essence of summer while being easy to share. The use of fresh strawberries makes all the difference, giving an authentic taste that frozen berries just can’t replicate. By layering the crust, cheesecake filling, and strawberries, I found the texture to be both satisfying and delightful.

One key tip I learned is to let the bars chill completely before slicing; it truly allows the flavors to meld together. I also recommend using a sharp knife soaked in hot water for clean cuts—this makes a noticeable difference in presentation. Each bar has a wonderful balance, and I can’t resist taking a second helping!

Why You'll Love These Bars
Layers of creamy cheesecake with fresh strawberries create a stunning visual and taste experience.
The buttery shortcake crust adds a delightful crunch that contrasts perfectly with the smooth cheesecake.
These bars are perfect for picnics, barbecues, or any summer celebration you have in mind!

The Importance of Fresh Strawberries

Using fresh strawberries is crucial for these bars as they not only bring vibrant color but also enhance the overall flavor profile. Fresh strawberries infuse the dessert with a natural sweetness and a slight tartness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheesecake layer. Look for fruit that is firm, plump, and bright red, as this indicates peak ripeness and sweetness. If out of season, consider using frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw and pat them dry to avoid excess liquid.

The freshness of strawberries will also dictate the visual appeal of your dessert. Sliced strawberries should be arranged neatly atop the cheesecake to create an inviting presentation. Opt for berries that are uniform in size for a polished look, and remember that adding the strawberry preserves glaze not only adds gloss but also helps to keep the strawberries hydrated and looking fresh longer.

Crafting the Perfect Crust

The crust of these cheesecake bars is made from graham cracker crumbs, which provide a delightful crunch that complements the creamy filling. It’s important to mix the crumbs with melted butter and sugar thoroughly, ensuring even moisture distribution. Press the mixture firmly into the baking dish so it forms a solid base; this helps prevent it from crumbling when you slice the bars. If you prefer a different flavor, consider substituting with crushed Oreo cookies or Nilla wafers for a unique twist.

For optimal baking, make sure your oven is calibrated correctly. The crust should be baked until just set and lightly golden around the edges. If underbaked, it will be too soft, while overbaking can lead to a hardened crust. I like to keep an eye on the crust during the last few minutes for those golden, toasty edges that signal it’s ready to come out.

Ingredients

Before you start, make sure to gather the following ingredients:

Crust

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling

16 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 large eggs
1/4 cup sour cream

Topping

2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
1/4 cup strawberry preserves

Once you have all the ingredients ready, we can start making these delicious bars!

Instructions

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

Prepare the Crust

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

Make the Cheesecake Filling

In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth. Add in the vanilla extract and mix well. Then, incorporate the eggs one at a time, followed by the sour cream, blending until smooth. Pour this mixture over the cooled crust.

Bake the Cheesecake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and allow it to cool inside for an hour. This prevents cracks on the surface.

Add Strawberries

Once the cheesecake is cool, layer the sliced strawberries on top. Heat the strawberry preserves until liquid and brush it over the strawberries to create a glaze.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the bars for at least 3 hours, or preferably overnight, before slicing. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Now that your bars are ready, prepare for compliments!

Pro Tips

For the best results, use room temperature cream cheese and don’t skip the chilling step—it helps achieve the perfect texture.

Storage Tips

To keep these Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be kept for up to five days while retaining their flavor and texture. I recommend placing parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. If you want to enjoy them later, you can freeze the bars after slicing, wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and then in foil. They will keep well in the freezer for up to three months.

Thaw frozen bars in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture. This gentle thawing helps preserve the creamy filling and prevent excess moisture from forming. Avoid microwaving as it can affect the integrity of the cheesecake, leading to a rubbery texture.

Serving Suggestions

When ready to serve, slice the cheesecake bars using a hot knife (run it under hot water and wipe dry) to achieve clean cuts. For an extra special touch, consider serving them with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. The cool cream or ice cream contrasts deliciously with the cheesecake's richness, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the dessert.

These bars also pair well with a refreshing beverage like iced tea or lemonade, making them a perfect addition to summer gatherings, picnics, or barbecues. For added flavor, think about garnishing with a sprinkle of mint leaves or drizzling some chocolate sauce on top for a gourmet touch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries instead?

While fresh strawberries give the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen ones. Just make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before layering.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Just substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free crumbs and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

→ How can I prevent the cheesecake from cracking?

Let the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven after baking, and avoid overmixing the filling. Also, make sure not to overbake.