Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars

Name: Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Highlighted under: Basic Kitchen

I absolutely love making Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars during summer gatherings. The combination of creamy cheesecake and fresh strawberries atop a buttery shortcake crust is simply irresistible. Every bite offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors that feels refreshing yet indulgent. Whether you're serving them at a barbecue or enjoying them with friends on the patio, these bars are sure to impress. Plus, they're surprisingly easy to prepare, making them my go-to dessert for any occasion.

Created by

Gemma Hollis

Last updated on 2026-02-24T06:21:36.099Z

When I first experimented with combining strawberry shortcake and cheesecake, I had no idea how delightful the outcome would be. The layers of creamy cheesecake, sweet strawberries, and crumbly shortcake define summer desserts for me. I remember the first time I served these bars at a picnic; they disappeared in mere minutes!

During the process, I learned that chilling the bars for a few hours after baking really allows the flavors to meld beautifully. I recommend using fresh strawberries for the best taste, and a sprinkle of lemon zest adds a bright twist that enhances the whole dessert.

Why You'll Love These Bars
Creamy cheesecake meets classic shortcake for a heavenly experience
Loaded with fresh strawberries for a burst of flavor
Easy to make ahead and perfect for sharing

Understanding the Crust

The crust of these Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars provides a rich, buttery foundation that perfectly balances the creamy cheesecake and fresh strawberries. Using unsalted butter not only contributes to the flavor but also allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dessert. Ensure you mix the crust ingredients just until crumbly; over-mixing can lead to a tough texture. When pressing the mixture into the baking pan, use the back of a measuring cup for an even layer and to avoid any air pockets.

Baking the crust until it's lightly golden is essential for achieving a crispy bottom that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling. Keep a close eye on it toward the end of the baking time, as the crust can quickly go from golden to burnt. If you’d like a slightly nuttier flavor, consider substituting part of the all-purpose flour with finely ground almond flour; just be mindful that it may alter the texture slightly.

Crafting the Cheesecake Filling

Achieving a smooth cheesecake filling relies on the cream cheese being fully softened. Plan to take the cream cheese out of the fridge at least an hour before you begin. Using an electric mixer speeds up the process; beat until glossy and fully incorporated. If your mixture looks lumpy, it may need longer mixing time, as this ensures even consistency and prevents any lumps in the final product.

It's vital to add the eggs one at a time, allowing each to blend in completely before incorporating the next. This not only ensures a smoother filling but also prevents the addition of too much air, which can cause the cheesecake to crack during baking. Baking at the recommended temperature allows the filling to set gently; if you find it wobbly in the center after the suggested time, give it an additional 5 minutes but keep an eye out for overbaking, which can lead to a dry texture.

Perfecting the Strawberry Topping

For the best results, select ripe, fresh strawberries that are glossy and fragrant. The strawberry topping balances the richness of the cheesecake and adds a natural sweetness. Tossing the strawberries with sugar not only extracts their juices but also enhances their flavor. If your strawberries are particularly tart, feel free to increase the sugar by a tablespoon for a sweeter topping.

A sprinkle of fresh mint or a dash of balsamic vinegar can elevate your strawberry topping, adding a subtle complexity. Also, consider letting the strawberry mixture sit longer than 10 minutes; allowing the natural juices to meld can deepen the flavor. If you're looking to prepare these bars ahead of time, you can make the crust and cheesecake filling one day earlier and then add the strawberries just before serving to keep them fresh.

Ingredients

Crust

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

Cheesecake Filling

2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Strawberry Topping

2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/4 cup sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

Directions

Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, melted butter, baking powder, and salt. Mix until crumbly, then press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9x9-inch baking pan. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.

Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract. Pour the filling over the baked crust and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes or until set.

Prepare the Strawberry Topping

In a separate bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to allow the juices to release.

Assemble the Bars

Once the cheesecake layer is cooled, spread the strawberries evenly over the top. Refrigerate the entire pan for at least 2 hours before cutting into bars.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, you can add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each bar before serving. Feel free to play around with other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for variations.

Storage Recommendations

These Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They’re best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to prepare in advance, this is a great option. For longer storage, consider freezing the bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil; they can last up to three months in the freezer.

To thaw, simply place them in the refrigerator overnight. Avoid microwaving, as this can lead to a change in texture. If you prefer to freeze them with the strawberry topping, add the strawberries after thawing to maintain their freshness and prevent them from becoming mushy.

Serving Suggestions

When serving, I love to garnish these bars with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent touch. A sprinkle of crushed graham crackers can also enhance the presentation and add a crunchy element that mirrors a traditional cheesecake crust.

For a twist, you can customize the flavors by substituting strawberries with other seasonal fruits such as peaches or blueberries. If you're feeling adventurous, incorporating a layer of lemon curd beneath the cheesecake filling can add an irresistible tang that complements the sweet berries beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before using to prevent excess moisture.

→ How long can I store these bars?

They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just make sure to cover them well.

→ Can I make them gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ What can I use instead of cream cheese?

You can substitute with mascarpone cheese for a different flavor, but the texture will vary slightly.