Strawberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Ingredients:

• Crust:
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 6 tablespoons butter, melted
• Cheesecake Filling:
  • 2 cups cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Strawberry Topping:
  • 1 cup strawberry preserves or fresh strawberry sauce
  • Fresh strawberries, sliced (optional)
• Crumble Topping:
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup cold butter, cubed

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
2. Make the Crust:
   • Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl.
   • Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
   • Bake in preheated oven for 8-10 minutes until set. Remove and let cool slightly.
3. Prepare Cheesecake Filling:
   • In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
   • Add eggs, one at a time, beating just until combined after each addition.
   • Stir in vanilla extract.
   • Pour the filling over the crust, spreading evenly.
4. Add Strawberry Topping:
   • Spoon the strawberry preserves or sauce over the cheesecake layer.
   • If using, arrange sliced fresh strawberries on top for added freshness.
5. Make Crumble Topping:
   • In a small bowl, mix flour and brown sugar.
   • Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the strawberry layer.
6. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is set and the topping is lightly browned.
7. Cool and Chill:
   • Allow the bars to cool at room temperature on a wire rack.
   • Once cooled, chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours before slicing into bars.
8. Serve:
   • Lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang.
   • Cut into squares and serve chilled.

These Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are perfect for any occasion, providing a beautiful and tasty dessert option. Enjoy your baking! If you need any variations or have dietary restrictions, feel free to ask for adjustments.