Description
These No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are smooth, creamy, and packed with real strawberry flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10–12 crackers)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 cup whipped topping (Cool Whip or homemade whipped cream)
For the Strawberry Topping:
- 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, chopped
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest (optional, but adds freshness!)
Optional Garnishes:
- Extra whipped cream
- Sliced strawberries
- Crushed graham crackers
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Crust
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined.
- Press firmly into the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking dish lined with parchment paper.
- Refrigerate for 10-15 minutes while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy.
- Gently fold in whipped topping until fully combined.
- Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the chilled crust.
Step 3: Make the Strawberry Topping
- In a small saucepan, combine chopped strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, and water.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring, until the mixture thickens (about 5 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in lemon zest. Let cool completely.
Step 4: Assemble & Chill
- Spread the cooled strawberry topping over the cheesecake layer.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight for best results!).
Step 5: Slice & Serve!
- Slice into bars and top with extra whipped cream and sliced strawberries.
- Serve chilled and enjoy every creamy, fruity bite!