Strawberry Cheesecake Crumb Bars

Strawberry Cheesecake Crumb Bars are a delightful dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet brightness of strawberries, all layered between buttery, golden crumbs. These bars are easy to make, beautifully layered, and perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as an indulgent treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The perfect blend of creamy, fruity, and crumbly textures

• Easy to make in one pan, great for slicing and serving

• Ideal for parties, picnics, or simple at-home desserts

• Made with fresh strawberries for natural flavor

• Can be customized with other fruits or toppings

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• For the crumb crust and topping

  • All-purpose flour

  • Brown sugar

  • Baking powder

  • Salted butter, melted

  • Large egg

  • Vanilla extract

• For the cheesecake layer

  • Cream cheese, softened

  • Vanilla extract

  • Powdered sugar

  • Large egg

• For the strawberry layer

  • Fresh strawberries, chopped

  • Granulated sugar

  • Lemon juice

  • Lemon zest

  • Cornstarch

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

2. In a bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and baking powder. Mix in melted butter, egg, and vanilla until crumbly.

3. Press half of the crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.

4. In another bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and egg. Mix until creamy.

5. In a third bowl, combine chopped strawberries with lemon juice, zest, sugar, and cornstarch. Stir gently.

6. Spread the cheesecake mixture over the crust. Layer the strawberry mixture on top.

7. Crumble the remaining dough over the strawberries.

8. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and set.

9. Cool completely in the pan, then chill in the refrigerator before slicing.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 9 bars

• Prep Time: 30 minutes

• Bake Time: 45 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Use raspberries, blueberries, or a mixed berry blend instead of strawberries.

• Add a handful of chopped nuts to the crumb mixture for extra crunch.

• Swap the cheesecake layer with a layer of vanilla pudding for a no-bake twist.

• Add a thin layer of strawberry jam between the cheesecake and fruit for a stronger strawberry flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• These bars are best served chilled, but you can let them sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving.

• To freeze, wrap bars individually and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, just thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the filling.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make these bars a day ahead and store them in the fridge until ready to serve.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Adjust the baking time as needed.

What kind of cream cheese should I use?

Use full-fat block cream cheese for the best texture and flavor.

How do I prevent a soggy crust?

Make sure to drain the strawberries well and bake the bars until the top is golden and set.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour as a substitute for the all-purpose flour.

How do I know the bars are done baking?

The top should be lightly golden and the center should no longer jiggle. Let them cool completely before slicing.

Can I use lemon extract instead of lemon zest?

You can, but lemon zest offers a fresher, more natural citrus flavor.

Do I need to chill them before slicing?

Yes, chilling helps the bars firm up and hold their shape better when sliced.

Can I use a food processor for the crumb mixture?

Yes, a food processor makes quick work of combining the crumb ingredients, but you can also do it by hand.

Conclusion

Strawberry Cheesecake Crumb Bars are a simple yet elegant dessert that highlights the natural sweetness of strawberries and the creaminess of cheesecake in every bite. With a buttery crumb crust and a vibrant fruit layer, these bars are sure to be a favorite at any gathering or as a sweet reward for yourself.