No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

introduction

This is a simple, sweet treat you can make without heat. You melt a butter crust, mix a soft cream cheese filling, and top with fresh strawberry sauce. Kids and friends will love it. Try other small treats like strawberry cheesecake cookies for a fun change.

why make this recipe

You make this recipe when you want a quick, cool dessert. You do not need an oven. You can finish it in a few steps and chill. The taste is rich and fresh. You can also try a different no-bake idea like no-bake gingerbread cheesecake cups if you want spice and a holiday twist.

how to make No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

You make these bars in three parts: the crust, the filling, and the topping. Use a pan with sides so the bars set well. If you like a different crumb mix, see a page about crust ideas like caramel apple cheesecake bars for a crust idea.

Ingredients :

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 16 full cracker sheets)
• Pinch of salt
• ¼ cup packed light or dark brown sugar
• ½ cup butter, melted
• 16 ounces full-fat cream cheese
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons water
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 ½ lb strawberries, hulled and chopped small
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

If you need a guide on how crumbs pack, see tips like in this crumb recipe crumb guide.

Directions :

To prepare the crust:

1. Mix the graham cracker crumbs, pinch of salt, and brown sugar in a bowl.
2. Stir in the melted butter until the mix looks like wet sand.
3. Press the mix into the bottom of an 8×8 or 9×9 inch pan. Press tight and even.
4. Chill the crust in the fridge while you make the filling.

To prepare the filling:

1. Beat the cream cheese in a bowl until smooth.
2. Add ½ cup granulated sugar and the vanilla. Beat until creamy.
3. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until it makes soft peaks.
4. Fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mix gently. Do not overmix.
5. Spread the filling over the chilled crust. Smooth the top. Return to the fridge.

To make the topping:

1. Put the chopped strawberries, 1 cup granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons water, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice in a small pan.
2. Stir in 2 tablespoons cornstarch to the mix.
3. Cook on medium heat and stir until the sauce thickens and the berries break down. Let it cool.
4. Pour the cooled strawberry sauce over the chilled filling and spread it evenly.
5. Chill the whole pan for at least 4 hours or until firm. Cut into bars to serve.

how to serve No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

Cut the bars clean with a sharp knife. Wipe the knife between cuts for neat edges. Serve cold. Add a small strawberry or mint leaf on top for a nice look. You can also serve with a spoon of extra sauce on the side.

how to store No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

Cover the pan with plastic wrap or move bars to an airtight box. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can freeze bars for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before you eat.

tips to make No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

• Use full-fat cream cheese for the best taste and texture.
• Chill the crust well so it does not break when you cut bars.
• Cool the strawberry topping before you put it on the filling to keep the filling firm.
• If the sauce seems thin, add 1 more teaspoon cornstarch mixed in cold water and cook a little longer.
• For more ideas on crust and toppings, see this related recipe crust and topping ideas.

variation (if any)

• Use raspberries or blueberries instead of strawberries.
• Make a chocolate crust by adding 2 tablespoons cocoa to the crumbs.
• Swap lemon juice for orange for a sweet twist.
• Add a thin layer of melted chocolate between the crust and filling for a rich change.

FAQs

Q: Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
A: You can, but the bars may not set as firm and the taste will be less rich.

Q: Can I use frozen strawberries?
A: Yes. Thaw and drain them well before cooking so the sauce is not too thin.

Q: How long to chill before cutting?
A: Chill at least 4 hours. For best results, chill overnight.

Q: Can I make this a day ahead?
A: Yes. Make and chill a day before your event. The flavor will be better.

Q: Do I need to bake anything?
A: No. This is a no-bake dessert. You only heat the strawberry topping on the stove.

Conclusion

If you want another full recipe page with pictures and tips, see this detailed version: No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Bars – Completely Delicious.