Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars
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Delight in the delicious layers of Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars, where creamy cheesecake meets luscious strawberries atop a buttery shortcake base.
These Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars are the perfect dessert for any occasion. With a buttery shortcake base, a creamy cheesecake layer, and topped with sweet strawberries, they are sure to impress your family and friends. Perfect for summer gatherings or a cozy night in!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich layers of creamy cheesecake and fresh strawberries
- Buttery shortcake crust that adds a delightful crunch
- Easy to slice and serve for gatherings or parties
The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion
Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate dessert that combines the best of both worlds: cheesecake and strawberry shortcake. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue, celebrating a birthday, or simply indulging yourself, these bars are sure to impress. Their vibrant appearance and delightful flavors will attract everyone’s attention, making them a standout treat at any gathering.
These bars are not just about taste; they also offer a beautiful presentation. The layers of creamy cheesecake, fresh strawberries, and a golden shortcake base create a visually appealing dessert that looks as good as it tastes. Slicing them into bars makes them easy to serve, allowing guests to enjoy a perfect portion without the mess of traditional cakes.
A Flavor Combination to Savor
The combination of rich, creamy cheesecake with the freshness of strawberries is a match made in dessert heaven. The slight tanginess of the cheesecake balances beautifully with the sweet and juicy strawberries, creating a flavor profile that is both refreshing and indulgent. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch from the buttery shortcake crust, making it a multi-textural delight.
Moreover, the addition of lemon juice in the strawberry topping enhances the overall flavor and brightness of the dish. It cuts through the sweetness, providing a perfect contrast that elevates the dessert to new heights. This harmonious blend of flavors ensures that each bite is bursting with deliciousness, leaving everyone coming back for more.
Tips for Perfect Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars
To achieve the best results, make sure your cream cheese is softened at room temperature before mixing. This will help you obtain a smooth and creamy cheesecake layer without lumps. Additionally, avoid overmixing the cheesecake batter after adding the egg, as this can lead to cracks during baking.
When preparing your strawberries, choose ripe, fresh ones for the best flavor. If strawberries are out of season, consider using frozen berries, but be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture. For an extra touch, you can also add a splash of vanilla extract to the strawberries for added flavor.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make these delightful bars:
For the Shortcake Base
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cheesecake Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
For the Strawberry Topping
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Once you have all your ingredients, you're ready to start baking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars:
Prepare the Shortcake Base
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir in melted butter, milk, and vanilla until just combined.
Make the Cheesecake Layer
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar and vanilla until smooth. Add the egg and mix until just combined. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled shortcake base and spread evenly.
Prepare the Strawberry Topping
In a bowl, toss sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Let sit for 10 minutes to macerate.
Assemble the Bars
Once the cheesecake layer is cooled, top with the macerated strawberries. Slice into bars and serve chilled.
Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars!
Pro Tips
- For best results, chill the bars in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving to enhance the flavors.
Storing Your Cheesecake Bars
If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be kept for up to 3-4 days, making them a perfect make-ahead dessert for busy weeks. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
For longer storage, you can freeze the cheesecake bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They will maintain their flavor and texture for up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Serving Suggestions
These cheesecake bars are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them even further with a scoop of whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. Fresh mint leaves can also add a pop of color and freshness when garnishing your dessert.
For a unique twist, consider pairing the bars with a side of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added creaminess. This contrast in temperature and texture creates a delightful experience that your guests will love.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen strawberries can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain them before using.
→ How long can I store these cheesecake bars?
You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
→ Can I add other fruits to the topping?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other berries like blueberries or raspberries.
Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars
Delight in the delicious layers of Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars, where creamy cheesecake meets luscious strawberries atop a buttery shortcake base.
What You'll Need
For the Shortcake Base
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cheesecake Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
For the Strawberry Topping
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir in melted butter, milk, and vanilla until just combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased baking dish. Bake for 15 minutes, then let cool slightly.
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar and vanilla until smooth. Add the egg and mix until just combined. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled shortcake base and spread evenly. Bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheesecake is set. Allow to cool completely.
In a bowl, toss sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Let sit for 10 minutes to macerate.
Once the cheesecake layer is cooled, top with the macerated strawberries. Slice into bars and serve chilled.
Extra Tips
- For best results, chill the bars in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving to enhance the flavors.
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