Strawberry Cheesecake Bars (Print Version)

Velvety cream cheese filling on a buttery graham cracker base, topped with sweet strawberry glaze for the perfect dessert.

# Ingredients:

→ Crust

01 - 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
02 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
03 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar

→ Cheesecake Filling

04 - 16 oz cream cheese, softened
05 - 1/2 cup sour cream
06 - 3/4 cup granulated sugar
07 - 2 large eggs
08 - 1 tsp vanilla extract

→ Strawberry Glaze

09 - 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
10 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
11 - 1 tbsp cornstarch
12 - 1/4 cup water

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a 9x9 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
02 - In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup sugar until combined. Press firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
03 - In a large bowl, beat cream cheese, sour cream, and 3/4 cup sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
04 - Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust and smooth the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set. Let cool completely.
05 - In a small saucepan, combine strawberries, 1/4 cup sugar, cornstarch, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened. Remove from heat and let cool.
06 - Spread the strawberry glaze over the cooled cheesecake. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into bars.

# Additional Notes:

01 - For a smoother glaze, blend the cooked strawberry mixture before spreading.
02 - Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
03 - You can use frozen strawberries if fresh are not available.