Chef Mitchell preparing Strawberry Chocolate Cheesecake Bars
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered the perfect blend of strawberries and chocolate while experimenting with cheesecake recipes in my kitchen. After many attempts, I finally created these bars that capture the essence of summer with the sweetness of strawberries and the richness of chocolate. They have become a favorite among my friends and family, and I love sharing them at gatherings. Now, I'm excited to share this recipe with you!"

As a culinary expert with over a decade of experience, I specialize in American cuisine and desserts. My passion for creating delicious sweets has led me to develop hundreds of recipes, all aimed at bringing joy to people's lives through food. I believe that every dessert tells a story, and I love to share those stories with others.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Strawberry Chocolate Cheesecake Bars served on a plate

Why This Strawberry Chocolate Cheesecake Bars Recipe Works

This recipe combines the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake with the fresh, fruity flavor of strawberries and the indulgence of chocolate. The crust adds a crunchy contrast, making each bite a harmonious experience. These bars are not only visually appealing but also incredibly satisfying to eat.

The technique of baking the cheesecake in a water bath ensures even cooking and helps prevent cracks on the surface. The result is a smooth and creamy cheesecake that pairs beautifully with the toppings. Following this method guarantees perfect bars every time.

💡 Professional Tip

To achieve the best texture, make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. This will help create a smooth batter without lumps. Additionally, avoid overmixing the cheesecake batter to keep it light and airy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, these cheesecake bars can be made a day in advance. Just make sure to store them in the refrigerator, covered tightly to maintain freshness. They actually taste better after chilling for a few hours, as the flavors meld together beautifully.

If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute light cream cheese or Neufchâtel cheese for a similar texture. For a dairy-free alternative, consider using cashew cream or silken tofu blended until smooth, though the flavor may vary slightly.

The cheesecake is done when the edges are set, but the center still has a slight jiggle. It will continue to firm up as it cools. Avoid overbaking, as this can lead to a dry texture.

Absolutely! These cheesecake bars freeze well. Just cut them into squares and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.

These bars are delicious on their own, but you can enhance the experience with a dollop of whipped cream, fresh strawberry slices, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. Pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream also makes for a delightful dessert.

Stored properly in an airtight container, these cheesecake bars can last in the fridge for up to 5 days. Be sure to keep them covered to prevent them from drying out or absorbing any odors from the fridge.

Yes, these cheesecake bars are perfect for making in advance. They need time to chill and set in the refrigerator, so making them a day ahead is highly recommended for the best flavor and texture.

If you want to enjoy them warm, place the bars in a preheated oven at a low temperature (about 200°F or 93°C) for about 10 minutes. Be careful not to overheat, as this can affect the texture. They are best served chilled or at room temperature.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: The cheesecake bars are dry and crumbly.

Solution: Ensure not to overbake the cheesecake, as this can lead to dryness. Also, using fresh ingredients and properly measuring them can help maintain moisture.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: The crust lacks a desirable crunch.

Solution: Make sure to bake the crust adequately before adding the cheesecake filling. You may also increase the amount of butter in the crust mixture to enhance its crispiness.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: The cheesecake has cracks and is overcooked.

Prevention: To prevent overcooking, use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven temperature is accurate. Also, consider using a water bath for more even cooking, which helps prevent cracks.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: The center of the cheesecake remains gooey after baking.

Recovery: If the cheesecake is undercooked, return it to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. Check for doneness again, ensuring the edges are set while the center is slightly jiggly.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: The edges of the cheesecake are burnt.

Prevention: Use a water bath to insulate the edges while baking. You can also place a sheet of aluminum foil around the edges of the pan to prevent burning.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the bars are too sweet, add a pinch of salt to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: If the bars are too salty, pairing them with a sweet topping like whipped cream or fruit can help balance the taste.

Bland: If the bars taste bland, consider adding more vanilla extract or a touch of lemon juice to enhance the flavor.

Fresh ingredients for Strawberry Chocolate Cheesecake Bars

Essential Ingredients for Strawberry Chocolate Cheesecake Bars

The key ingredients for this recipe include cream cheese, sugar, and fresh strawberries, all of which contribute to the rich flavor and creamy texture of the bars. The graham cracker crust adds a delightful crunch that complements the smooth filling.

Using high-quality ingredients such as ripe strawberries and fresh cream cheese will greatly enhance the overall taste of the dessert. Fresh strawberries will provide natural sweetness and vibrant color, making your cheesecake bars even more appealing.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Cream Cheese: Choose a full-fat cream cheese for a rich and creamy texture. Allow it to come to room temperature before mixing for the best results.
  • Fresh Strawberries: Opt for ripe, juicy strawberries for the best flavor. Wash them thoroughly and chop them just before adding to preserve their freshness.
  • Chocolate Chips: Use high-quality chocolate chips, preferably semi-sweet or dark chocolate, to balance the sweetness of the cheesecake and enhance its flavor.
Cooking process for Strawberry Chocolate Cheesecake Bars

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Making Strawberry Chocolate Cheesecake Bars involves several key steps that ensure the perfect balance of flavors and textures. From preparing the crust to baking the cheesecake, each step is essential to the overall success of the recipe.

Pay attention to the baking time and temperature to achieve a creamy, smooth consistency. Allowing the bars to cool and set in the refrigerator is crucial for the best flavor and texture.

Key Technique for Perfect Strawberry Chocolate Cheesecake Bars

The most important technique for this recipe is using a water bath during the baking process. This method provides even heat distribution, preventing the cheesecake from cracking and ensuring a smooth texture.

Strawberry Chocolate Cheesecake Bars

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1 cup sugar
    Granulated
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries
    Chopped
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
    Freshly squeezed
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
    For thickening

For the Sauce

  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
    For the crust
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
    Melted
  • 1 cup sugar
    Granulated
  • 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese
    Softened
  • 3 large eggs
    Room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    Pure
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries
    Chopped
  • 1 cup chocolate chips
    Semi-sweet

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust

    In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased baking dish.

  2. Make the Cheesecake Batter

    In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract, cornstarch, and salt.

  3. Add Strawberries and Chocolate

    Fold in the chopped strawberries and melted chocolate chips into the cheesecake batter.

  4. Pour into Crust

    Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust and smooth the top with a spatula.

  5. Bake

    Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and bake for 45 minutes or until set. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.

  6. Chill

    Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to set completely.

  7. Prepare Whipped Cream

    In a mixing bowl, beat heavy cream and powdered sugar until soft peaks form.

  8. Serve

    Cut the cheesecake into bars, top with whipped cream, fresh strawberries, and chocolate shavings before serving.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store your Strawberry Chocolate Cheesecake Bars, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last up to 5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them as described in the FAQs above.

Serving Suggestions

These bars are best served chilled. You can plate them with a dollop of whipped cream, fresh strawberries on the side, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added indulgence.

Recipe Variations

For a twist, try adding different fruits like raspberries or blueberries. You can also experiment with different types of chocolate, such as dark or white chocolate, to give your cheesecake bars a unique flavor profile.