Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars

Name: Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour; ½ cup of granulated sugar; ½ cup of unsalted butter, melted; 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract; ¼ teaspoon of salt; 16 oz of cream cheese, softened; ½ cup of granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract; 2 large eggs; 1 cup of whipped cream; 2 cups of fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon of lemon juice

Highlighted under: Modern Baking Favorites

I absolutely love making these Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars whenever I want to impress friends and family. Combining the luscious flavors of strawberry shortcake with the rich creaminess of cheesecake results in a delightful treat that is perfect for any occasion. The buttery shortbread crust adds a wonderful crunch, while the fresh strawberry topping makes it feel like a slice of summer on your plate. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll be coming back for seconds!

Created by

Esme Caldwell

Last updated on 2026-02-23T20:49:36.464Z

Whenever I serve these Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars, I get rave reviews from everyone. The combination of textures is simply irresistible, and I love how the fresh strawberries elevate the flavor profile. I discovered that using a mix of cream cheese and whipped cream gives the filling that perfect balance of firmness and creaminess, making each bite a joy.

While developing this recipe, I experimented with various crusts. I found that a shortbread base provides the perfect buttery contrast to the soft cheesecake layer. I also recommend making the bars a day ahead; they taste even better the next day after they’ve had time to chill and set in the fridge!

Why You Will Love These Bars
The perfect balance of creamy cheesecake and buttery shortcake.
Fresh strawberries on top add a burst of flavor and color.
Ideal for gatherings, picnics, or just a sweet indulgence at home.

Understanding the Components

The crust is a fundamental part of these Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars, as it provides a sturdy base and contrasts the creamy filling. Using unsalted butter is essential; it allows you to control the salt content, which can enhance the overall flavor without overpowering the sweetness of the dessert. Make sure to press the crust firmly into the pan to avoid crumbly bars. A light browning will indicate that it's ready, typically achieved between 12-15 minutes in the oven at 350°F.

The cheesecake filling brings richness to each bite, and ensuring your cream cheese is softened is key to achieving a smooth texture. If it's too firm, your filling can end up lumpy. For a quick softening method, cut the cream cheese into cubes and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes or microwave it for 10-second bursts until softened but not melted. Fold in the whipped cream gently to maintain its airy texture, which is crucial for lightness in your bars.

Final Touch and Storage Tips

The strawberry topping not only adds freshness but also a visual appeal to your cheesecake bars. Using ripe, but not overripe, strawberries will provide the best flavor and color. After mixing with sugar and lemon juice, allow the mixture to sit for approximately 10 minutes. This helps the strawberries release their juices, creating a natural syrup that enhances the topping's taste and makes it deliciously moist when served on the cheesecake. Don’t skip this step!

To ensure your bars stay fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to make them in advance, you can prepare all the components a day ahead and assemble them right before serving. These bars also freeze well; wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Ingredients

Crust

1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour
½ cup of granulated sugar
½ cup of unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon of salt

Cheesecake Filling

16 oz of cream cheese, softened
½ cup of granulated sugar
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
2 large eggs
1 cup of whipped cream

Strawberry Topping

2 cups of fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 tablespoons of granulated sugar
1 tablespoon of lemon juice

Instructions

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until it resembles wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9x9 inch baking pan and bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.

Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Add vanilla extract and mix well. Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Finally, fold in the whipped cream until just combined.

Assemble the Bars

Pour the cheesecake filling over the baked crust and spread evenly. Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly. Allow to cool at room temperature and then refrigerate for at least 4 hours.

Prepare the Strawberry Topping

In a bowl, combine sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Toss gently and let sit for about 10 minutes for the juices to develop.

Serve

Once the cheesecake has set, slice into bars and top with the macerated strawberries before serving.

Tips & Notes

Pro Tips

For a gluten-free version, use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour in the crust. Make sure to adjust the baking time as needed.

Variations to Try

While strawberries are the star of this dessert, feel free to experiment with other fruits. Raspberries or blueberries can be substituted for strawberries for a different flavor profile. If using other fruits, consider their sweetness and adjust sugar in the topping accordingly. You could also try adding a layer of fruit puree in between the crust and cheesecake filling for an added dimension of flavor that pairs well with the creamy filling.

For a richer taste, consider adding zest from a lemon or orange to the cheesecake filling. The citrus will brighten the flavors and complement the strawberries beautifully. You can also mix in some crushed graham crackers into the crust for a different texture and slight flavor variation. Remember, adjusting the type of crust or fruits can lead to a delightful twist on the classic recipe.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

A common issue with cheesecake bars is cracking on the surface as they cool. To minimize this, ensure that you don't overmix your batter once the eggs are added, as too much air can lead to cracking. Additionally, bake the cheesecake in a water bath, which can help regulate the temperature and add moisture, further preventing any potential cracks.

If your cheesecake bars are too soft or jiggly after the baking time, they may require more time in the oven, but keep a close eye to avoid overbaking. The ideal texture is set edges with a slightly jiggly center that firms up as it cools. If they don't seem to set after chilling, consider placing them in the freezer for 30 minutes to an hour before serving to help firm them up.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

While fresh strawberries are recommended, you can use frozen ones. Just ensure they are thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture.

→ How long do these bars last in the fridge?

These cheesecake bars can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator if stored properly in an airtight container.

→ Can I make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! These bars are perfect for making a day ahead. They actually taste better after sitting in the fridge.

→ Is there a dairy-free option?

You can use coconut cream as a substitute for the cream cheese and whipped cream, though the texture will be different.