Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

why make this recipe

Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and creamy cheesecake with the freshness of strawberries. They are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, birthday party, or just a fun dessert night at home. These bars are easy to make and even easier to enjoy, making them a great choice for both novice and experienced bakers.

how to make Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

Ingredients:

• 2 cups Oreo cookie crumbs (about 24 cookies, crushed)
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for lighter version)
• 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Fresh strawberries and blackberries for garnish
• Shaved dark chocolate (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Mix the Oreo crumbs with melted butter until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into a parchment-lined 9×9-inch baking pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let it cool.
3. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Mix in vanilla and sour cream until creamy. Pour this mixture over the cooled crust and spread it evenly.
4. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 30–35 minutes until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly. Let it cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
5. Once chilled, arrange the sliced strawberries evenly on top of the cheesecake layer.
6. Heat the cream in a saucepan until just simmering. Pour it over the chocolate chips in a bowl and let it sit for 2 minutes. Stir until smooth and glossy.
7. Pour the ganache over the strawberries, letting it drip down the sides. Refrigerate for 30 minutes until the ganache sets.
8. Top with fresh strawberries, blackberries, and chocolate shavings. Slice into bars and serve chilled.

how to serve Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

Serve these delicious cheesecake bars chilled as a sweet dessert. You can place them on a nice dessert platter for gatherings or cut them into squares and serve on individual plates. Add a few fresh strawberries or blackberries on the side for a pop of color and extra flavor.

how to store Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 4-5 days. If you want to keep them for longer, consider freezing the bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw them in the fridge before serving.

tips to make Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

• Make sure the cream cheese is well softened for a smooth batter.
• You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar to the cream cheese mixture.
• For a slightly different flavor, try adding a splash of almond extract in place of vanilla.

variation

You can switch things up by using a different cookie for the crust, such as vanilla wafers or graham crackers. Additionally, you can substitute other fruits like raspberries or blueberries for a berry mix topping.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free Oreo cookies to make the crust gluten-free.

How long do these bars need to chill in the fridge?
It’s best to refrigerate them for at least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal for better flavor and texture.