These Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are a mouthwatering combination of creamy cheesecake, a buttery graham cracker crust, sweet strawberry filling, and a crunchy oatmeal crumble on top. They’re the perfect treat for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party, serving a dessert at a family dinner, or simply indulging in something sweet. With layers of flavor and texture, these bars are sure to impress everyone!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are a dessert dream come true. The smooth and creamy cheesecake filling pairs beautifully with the sweet, tart strawberry topping, while the oatmeal crumble adds the perfect crunch. The graham cracker crust is buttery and delicious, giving the bars a balanced flavor and texture. Plus, they’re easy to make and can be prepped ahead of time, making them perfect for gatherings, picnics, or just a special treat! Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

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
¾ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the strawberry filling:

3 cups chopped strawberries
2 tablespoons lemon juice
½ cup light brown sugar, packed
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ½ tablespoons cornstarch

For the oatmeal crumble:

1 cup old fashioned oats
1 cup light brown sugar, packed
¼ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and finely diced

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the crust:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper and set aside.
In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Create a well in the center and pour in the melted butter. Mix until everything is evenly combined.
Transfer the crust mixture to the prepared baking pan and press it evenly into the bottom. Bake for 8 minutes. Remove from the oven and set aside.
Make the cheesecake filling:
While the crust is baking, beat together the cheesecake ingredients (cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract) in a medium bowl until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
Prepare the strawberry filling:
In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Cook over medium-high heat for 5 to 7 minutes until the strawberries burst and juice begins to form.
In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar and cornstarch. Stir this mixture into the strawberry mixture and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and resembles pie filling. Remove from heat.
Make the oatmeal crumble:
In a large bowl, combine oats, light brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Add the cold, diced butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until you have a coarse crumble.
Assemble the bars:
Once the crust has cooled slightly, pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust and spread it evenly.
Top with the strawberry filling, spreading it evenly over the cheesecake. Finally, sprinkle the oatmeal crumble topping over the strawberries.
Bake:
Bake for 50 to 70 minutes, or until the crumble topping is golden brown. Keep an eye on the bars as baking times may vary depending on your oven.
Cool and chill:
Once baked, remove from the oven and let the bars cool in the pan on a wire rack for 30 to 60 minutes.
Transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, before slicing into squares.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 60–80 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (including chilling)
Servings: 12 squares

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover Strawberry Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They are best served chilled, and you can enjoy them straight from the fridge or let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving. They do not need reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw and drain them before using them in the filling to prevent excess moisture. Fresh strawberries are recommended for the best flavor and texture, but frozen will work in a pinch.

2. Can I use a different fruit for the topping?

Absolutely! While strawberries are classic, you can swap them out with other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or peaches for a different twist. Just adjust the sugar level in the filling if the fruit is sweeter or tarter.

3. Can I use store-bought graham cracker crust?

You can use a store-bought graham cracker crust to save time, but homemade crusts have a better texture and flavor. If you go the store-bought route, skip the baking step and just add the cheesecake and fruit fillings.

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, this dessert is perfect for making ahead. It needs time to chill and set in the fridge, so making it the day before you plan to serve it is ideal.

5. How do I make this dessert gluten-free?

To make this dessert gluten-free, use a gluten-free graham cracker crumb and check that the oats used in the crumble are certified gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

6. Can I use a different type of sugar for the crust or filling?

You can substitute the granulated sugar with alternatives like coconut sugar or honey, but the texture and flavor might change slightly. Brown sugar is a great option for the crumble as it adds richness and depth.

7. Can I make the crumble ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the oatmeal crumble ahead of time and store it in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Just sprinkle it over the bars before baking.

8. How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The bars are done when the crumble topping is golden brown and the filling is set. You can gently press the center of the bars—if it feels firm, it’s ready.

9. Can I use light cream cheese?

Yes, you can use light cream cheese if you’re looking for a lower-calorie version. The taste and texture will still be delicious, but it may be a bit lighter than using full-fat cream cheese.

10. How can I make the crust more flavorful?

You can add a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the graham cracker crust mixture for an extra flavor boost. A little vanilla extract in the crust can also enhance the flavor.

Conclusion

These Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are the perfect dessert for any occasion. The combination of a crunchy graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, sweet and tangy strawberry topping, and oatmeal crumble makes them irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just indulging in something sweet, these bars will be a hit every time.

Strawberry Cheesecake Bars