Why Make This Recipe
Philadelphia Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat that combines the creamy goodness of cheesecake with the fresh flavor of strawberries. Good for any occasion, they are easy to make and perfect for sharing with friends and family. These bars offer a delicious balance of sweetness and tartness, making them a great dessert option for everyone to enjoy.
How to Make Philadelphia Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Press this mixture into the bottom of the baking dish to form a crust.
- In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup sugar until smooth.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the mixture and mix well.
- Gently fold in the chopped strawberries.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust in the baking dish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the cheesecake is set.
- Let it cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing into bars.
How to Serve Philadelphia Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Serve these delicious cheesecake bars chilled. They can be cut into small squares and placed on a nice serving plate. For an extra touch, consider adding a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of fresh strawberries on top. They make a cute and tasty dessert for gatherings or a sweet treat to enjoy at home.
How to Store Philadelphia Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
To store the cheesecake bars, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3-5 days. If you want to store them for longer, you can freeze them. Just wrap each bar in plastic wrap and then put them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Tips to Make Philadelphia Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
- Make sure your cream cheese is softened for easy mixing.
- You can crush the graham crackers in a food processor for a finer crumb.
- For a smoother texture, beat the cream cheese mixture well before adding the eggs.
- Don’t skip the chilling time; it helps the bars set properly and makes them easier to slice.
Variation
If you want to switch things up, you can use other fruits like blueberries or raspberries instead of strawberries. For a chocolate twist, add chocolate chips to the cream cheese mixture!
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but fresh strawberries will give a better texture and flavor. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding to the mixture.
2. How do I know when the cheesecake is done?
The cheesecake is done when it is set around the edges but slightly jiggly in the center. It will firm up as it cools.
3. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make these cheesecake bars a day or two in advance. Just be sure to store them properly in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
