Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

Name: Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups chocolate graham cracker crumbs; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/4 cup sugar; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 large eggs; 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 3 tbsp strawberry jam

Highlighted under: Baking Moments

I absolutely love creating desserts that blend flavors beautifully, and these Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are a perfect example. The rich chocolate base combined with the creamy cheesecake and fresh strawberries makes every bite a delightful experience. I enjoy making these for gatherings, as they always impress and disappear quickly! The contrast of textures and flavors is not only delicious but also visually stunning, making them a showstopper for any occasion.

Created by

Adeline Morris

Last updated on 2026-01-12T03:34:08.433Z

When I first concocted this recipe, I wanted a dessert that would capture the essence of summer. The strawberries add a refreshing note, while the chocolate provides a satisfying depth. I remember the first time I served these at a picnic; people couldn't believe how tasty and beautiful they were!

After several trials, I discovered that letting the cheesecake layer cool slightly before layering the strawberries on top prevents them from sinking. This small tip made all the difference in achieving the perfect bar that looks as good as it tastes!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Lush chocolate flavor balanced perfectly with fresh strawberries
Creamy texture that satisfies the sweet tooth
Great for celebrations or anytime you crave something special

Understanding the Balance of Flavors

The combination of chocolate and strawberries is a classic favorite, and in these Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars, it shines through beautifully. The chocolate graham cracker crust provides a deep, rich foundation that pairs wonderfully with the tartness of fresh strawberries. This balance of flavors is crucial; using ripe strawberries ensures that their natural sweetness complements the creamy cheesecake filling. I recommend choosing strawberries that are firm yet slightly soft to the touch for optimal flavor.

Another key flavor component is the cream cheese filling. It’s essential to use softened cream cheese to achieve that smooth, velvety texture. If your cream cheese is too cold, it may not blend well, leading to a lumpy filling. A simple fix for this is to cut the cream cheese into cubes and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing. This small step enhances the overall creaminess of the bars.

Texture Perfection

Each layer of these bars contributes to an overall delightful texture. The crust should be firm enough to hold its shape but still have a soft crunch when bitten into. Ensure that you press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the pan before baking; this helps to avoid a crumbly crust later. Bake until the edges start to darken, which should take about 10 minutes, and let it cool completely before adding the filling to secure that structure.

The cheesecake layer, meanwhile, should be creamy with a slight jiggle in the center when you take it out of the oven. This means it’s perfectly baked—the residual heat will continue to set it as it cools. If baked too long, the bars might develop cracks on the top, which can detract from their appearance. If this happens, know that a good spread of strawberry jam and a topping of fresh berries can help mask any imperfections.

Serving and Storage Tips

These Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are not only visually appealing but also incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. For a standout presentation, try cutting them into triangles instead of squares for a more elegant look. You could also drizzle some melted chocolate over the top for added flair, or even serve them with a side of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To maintain freshness, you can also freeze the bars. Just ensure they are well-wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the fridge overnight for the best texture.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars!

Crust

1 1/2 cups chocolate graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup sugar

Cheesecake Filling

16 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 large eggs

Toppings

1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
3 tbsp strawberry jam

Once you have everything ready, let’s dive into creating these lovely bars!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars.

Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the chocolate graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture into a greased 9x9 inch baking pan evenly and bake for 10 minutes. Let it cool.

Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and eggs, mixing until just combined. Pour the mixture over the cooled crust.

Bake the Bars

Bake the cheesecake layer for 20 minutes or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. Let it cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

Add the Toppings

Once cooled, spread the strawberry jam over the cheesecake layer and arrange the sliced strawberries on top. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before cutting into bars.

Enjoy these decadent bars chilled or at room temperature!

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, use ripe strawberries and serve the bars chilled. You can also drizzle melted chocolate over the top for an extra special touch!

Common Substitutions

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, consider using gluten-free chocolate cookies instead of chocolate graham crackers for the crust. The flavor will still meld beautifully with the cream cheese filling, ensuring a satisfying experience. For a lighter version, you could use Greek yogurt as a substitute for part of the cream cheese, though note that this will alter the flavor slightly, making it tangier.

When it comes to the strawberries, frozen strawberries can be used in place of fresh ones. Just be sure to thaw them and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture. This swap works well, especially if you're making these bars out of strawberry season. Alternatively, feel free to experiment with other fruits like raspberries or blueberries for a different flavor profile.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find that your cheesecake bars are too dense, it may be due to overmixing. When incorporating the eggs into the cream cheese mixture, mix until just combined. Overmixing can cause the final texture to become too heavy. Additionally, be cautious about overbaking; the cheesecake should still jiggle slightly in the center when you take it out of the oven.

Another common issue is difficulty cutting the bars neatly. To help with this, I recommend using a sharp knife that’s warmed under hot water and dried off before slicing. This technique helps to create clean cuts without tearing the layers apart. For best results, cut the bars after chilling in the fridge for a couple of hours, as this allows them to firm up nicely.

Make-Ahead Strategy

For those busy days when you want dessert ready to go, these bars are an excellent make-ahead option. You can prepare the crust and filling a day in advance—just store them separately in the refrigerator until you're ready to assemble. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld since resting can enhance the overall taste of the cheesecake.

Once assembled, the bars benefit from chilling, as this helps them set properly and enhances the flavors. Make them a day before your event for the best results. They’ll hold up well overnight in the fridge, allowing the strawberry jam to create a luscious glaze on top while the creaminess of the cheesecake becomes even more pronounced.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture.

→ How long can I store these bars?

They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can I use a different type of crust?

Absolutely! A traditional graham cracker crust or an Oreo crust would work well.

→ Is there a way to make these bars healthier?

You can use low-fat cream cheese and reduce the sugar for a lighter option.