Strawberry cheesecake bars

Ingredients

Crust:

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 14 graham crackers)
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

Cheesecake Layer:

• 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup sour cream

Strawberry Topping:

• 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen strawberries
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined.
3. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
4. Bake for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden. Let it cool.

2. Make the Cheesecake Layer:

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing after each addition.
3. Mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream until just combined.
4. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust and spread evenly.

3. Prepare the Strawberry Topping:

1. In a small saucepan, combine the strawberries and sugar over medium heat.
2. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries break down and release their juices (about 5–7 minutes).
3. If using cornstarch, stir it in to thicken the sauce. Let the topping cool slightly.

4. Assemble and Bake:

1. Drop spoonfuls of the strawberry mixture over the cheesecake layer.
2. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the strawberry topping into the cheesecake.
3. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.

5. Cool and Chill:

1. Allow the bars to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight) to set.
2. Once chilled, use the parchment paper to lift the bars out of the pan and cut into squares.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve chilled, topped with whipped cream or additional fresh strawberries for extra flair.