Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
A delightful dessert that combines creamy cheesecake with fresh strawberries, topped with a crunchy oatmeal crumble.
Ingredients
For the crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 4 tablespoons salted butter, melted
For the cheesecake
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the strawberry filling
- 3 cups chopped strawberries
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
For the oatmeal crumble
- 1 cup old fashioned oats
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and finely diced
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Combine graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar in a medium bowl.
- Create a well and pour in the melted butter, mixing until evenly combined.
Cheesecake Layer
- Beat together softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Strawberry Filling
- In a saucepan, combine chopped strawberries, lemon juice, and vanilla. Cook until strawberries burst and release their juice.
- In a separate bowl, mix light brown sugar and cornstarch, then stir into the strawberry mixture.
Oatmeal Crumble
- Combine oats, brown sugar, salt, cinnamon, and cold butter in a bowl. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to create a coarse crumble.
Assembly and Baking
- Press the crust mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan and bake for 8 minutes.
- Spread the cheesecake mixture over the baked crust.
- Top with the strawberry filling followed by the oatmeal crumble.
- Bake the cheesecake bars for 50 to 70 minutes until the crumble topping turns golden brown.
Cooling and Serving
- Allow the bars to cool in the pan on a wire rack for 30 to 60 minutes.
- Transfer to the refrigerator and let them cool for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, before slicing into squares.
- Serve on a pretty platter, dusted with powdered sugar or paired with whipped cream.
Notes
Ensure the cream cheese is softened for a smooth cheesecake. Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor. Let the bars cool thoroughly for the perfect texture. Customize with citrus zest or different berries for variety.