Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars (Printable version)
Indulgent bars with creamy cheesecake, fresh strawberries, and a chocolate topping—ideal for dessert lovers.
# List of ingredients:
→ Crust
01 - 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
02 - 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
03 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
04 - Pinch of salt
→ Cheesecake Layer
05 - 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
06 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
07 - 2 large eggs
08 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
09 - 1/4 cup sour cream
→ Strawberry Layer
10 - 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
11 - 3 tablespoons strawberry jam
12 - 1 teaspoon lemon juice
→ Chocolate Topping
13 - 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
14 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
→ Garnish
15 - 6 to 8 fresh strawberries, halved
# Directions:
01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
02 - Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and salt in a medium bowl. Press evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool slightly.
03 - Beat cream cheese and sugar in a large bowl until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream.
04 - Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
05 - Mix diced strawberries, strawberry jam, and lemon juice in a small bowl. Dot spoonfuls over the cheesecake layer and gently swirl with a toothpick or knife to create a marbled effect.
06 - Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the center is just set. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours until firm.
07 - Melt chocolate chips and butter together in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second bursts, stirring until smooth. Let cool slightly, then spread over the chilled cheesecake bars.
08 - Once the chocolate is set, lift the bars out using the parchment overhang. Garnish with halved fresh strawberries, slice into 12 bars, and serve.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- You get three desserts in one bite without anyone judging your life choices
- The swirled strawberry layer makes every bar look like you planned it that way on purpose
02 -
- Overbaking creates cracks and a rubbery texture that no amount of chocolate can hide
- The strawberry layer releases juice as it bakes, which is why the gentle swirl matters, too much mixing and you get pink soup
03 -
- Freeze the bars before adding chocolate if your kitchen runs warm, it sets faster and cleaner
- Save a spoonful of strawberry mixture to dot on top of the chocolate before it sets for visual drama