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Philadelphia Strawberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe: A Slice of Heaven
Philadelphia Strawberry Cheesecake Bars offer a delightful twist on the classic cheesecake. These bars combine the creamy richness of Philadelphia cream cheese with the sweet and tangy flavor of fresh strawberries, creating a dessert that’s both decadent and refreshing. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a luscious cheesecake filling studded with strawberries, these bars are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients and Preparation
Crust Ingredients
The foundation of these delectable bars is a simple yet satisfying graham cracker crust. You’ll need:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
Cheesecake Filling Ingredients
The heart of these bars is the creamy, dreamy cheesecake filling. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 (8 ounce) packages Philadelphia cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
Strawberry Topping (Optional)
For an extra burst of strawberry flavor and visual appeal, consider adding a simple strawberry topping:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Preparation Steps
Making these bars is easier than you might think! Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Prepare the Crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking pan lined with parchment paper.
- Bake the Crust: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden.
- Make the Filling: Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract. Gently fold in diced strawberries.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the filling over the baked crust. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is just set.
- Cool and Chill: Let cool completely in the pan, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before slicing and serving.
- Prepare Topping (Optional): Combine sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries soften and release their juices (about 5-7 minutes). Let cool slightly before spooning over the cheesecake bars.
Tips for Perfect Cheesecake Bars
- Softened Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Parchment Paper: Lining the pan with parchment paper makes it easy to lift the bars out for slicing.
- Don’t Overbake: Overbaking can lead to a cracked cheesecake. The center should still have a slight jiggle.
- Chill Thoroughly: Chilling allows the cheesecake to set properly and enhances the flavor.
Variations and Additions
Feel free to experiment with these variations to personalize your cheesecake bars:
- Different Berries: Substitute or add blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries.
- Chocolate Chips: Add chocolate chips to the filling for a chocolate-strawberry twist.
- Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest to the filling for a brighter flavor.
- Learn more about Cream Cheese here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did my cheesecake crack?
Cheesecake cracking often happens due to overbaking or temperature fluctuations. Avoid overbaking by checking for a slight jiggle in the center. Cool the cheesecake gradually to prevent sudden temperature changes.
Can I freeze these cheesecake bars?
Yes, these bars freeze well. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Can I use a different type of crust?
Absolutely! You can use an Oreo crust, shortbread crust, or even a gluten-free crust.
How long do these bars last in the refrigerator?
These bars will last for up to 5 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.
Can I make these without the strawberries?
Yes, you can omit the strawberries and make plain cheesecake bars. You might want to add a different flavor extract, like almond or lemon, to enhance the filling.
Summary
Philadelphia Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are a delightful dessert that’s sure to impress. With their creamy filling, buttery crust, and sweet strawberry flavor, they’re perfect for any occasion. Follow this recipe and enjoy a slice of heaven!
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