Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars

Name: Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 tsp baking powder; ¼ tsp salt; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; ½ cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 large eggs; 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 1 tbsp lemon juice

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Indulge in the delightful layers of Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars, a perfect fusion of creamy cheesecake and fresh strawberries atop a buttery shortcake crust.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-16T17:42:19.239Z

These Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavor of cheesecake with the freshness of strawberries. Perfect for gatherings or a sweet indulgence at home!

        Why You'll Love These Bars
        Creamy cheesecake layer with a hint of vanilla
Fresh strawberries add a burst of flavor
Buttery shortcake crust that pairs perfectly
Easy to make and serve for any occasion

      

The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion

Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars are an ideal treat for various occasions, whether it’s a summer picnic, a birthday celebration, or simply a delightful end to a family dinner. The combination of creamy cheesecake, fresh strawberries, and buttery shortcake makes these bars universally appealing. Their beautiful presentation and luscious layers will impress your guests, making you the star of the gathering.

These bars also offer a convenient serving size, eliminating the need for messy slicing of traditional cakes. Each bar is a perfect portion, making them easy to serve as finger food at parties or gatherings. Plus, you can prepare them ahead of time, giving you more time to enjoy your event.

Fresh Strawberries Make All the Difference

The use of fresh strawberries is what truly elevates these cheesecake bars. Their natural sweetness and vibrant color not only enhance the flavor but also add a beautiful visual appeal. When selecting strawberries, opt for ripe, juicy ones for the best results. This freshness shines through, providing a burst of flavor that complements the creamy cheesecake and buttery crust.

Macerating the strawberries with sugar and lemon juice allows them to release their juices, creating a delicious syrup that seeps into the cheesecake layer. This technique intensifies their flavor and ensures that every bite is as delightful as the last.

Tips for Perfecting Your Cheesecake Bars

To achieve the perfect cheesecake filling, make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing. This step ensures a smooth and creamy texture without lumps. Mixing the ingredients at a medium speed will also help to incorporate air, providing a lighter filling that sets beautifully.

Chilling the assembled bars for at least two hours is crucial. Not only does this help the cheesecake to firm up, but it also allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a richer taste. For best results, cover the bars with plastic wrap while chilling to prevent them from absorbing other odors in the refrigerator.

Ingredients

For the Shortcake Crust

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tsp baking powder
¼ tsp salt

For the Cheesecake Filling

16 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 large eggs

For the Strawberry Topping

2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp lemon juice

Make sure to use fresh strawberries for the best flavor!

Instructions

Prepare the Shortcake Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir in melted butter until well combined.

Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9x9 inch baking pan and bake for 15 minutes.

Make the Cheesecake Filling

In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until combined. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Pour the cheesecake mixture over the baked crust and bake for an additional 20 minutes.

Prepare the Strawberry Topping

In a bowl, mix sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Let sit for 10 minutes to macerate.

Assemble the Bars

Once the cheesecake is cooled, layer the macerated strawberries on top. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before cutting into bars.

Enjoy your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars chilled!

Serving Suggestions

These Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars can be served as is or dressed up with a dollop of whipped cream on top. For an extra touch, consider drizzling some chocolate or caramel sauce over the bars before serving. This small addition can make a big impact, adding richness and decadence to each bite.

Pair these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or serve them alongside a fresh fruit salad for a well-rounded dessert experience. The combination of textures and flavors will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.

Storage Tips

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to four days, making them a great make-ahead dessert option. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

For longer storage, you can freeze these cheesecake bars. Cut them into individual portions and wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them before using.

→ How should I store the cheesecake bars?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars can be made a day in advance, just keep them refrigerated.

→ Is it possible to substitute the cream cheese?

You can use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a lactose-free version.