Strawberry Cheesecake Bars (Print Version)

Creamy, refreshing treats with buttery graham crust, luscious cheesecake filling, and sweet strawberry topping - no baking required!

# Ingredients:

→ Crust

01 - 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
02 - ⅓ cup granulated sugar
03 - ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

→ Cheesecake filling

04 - 2 cups cream cheese, softened
05 - 1 cup powdered sugar
06 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
07 - 2 cups heavy cream

→ Strawberry topping

08 - 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
09 - ¼ cup granulated sugar
10 - 1 tablespoon lemon juice

# Steps to Follow:

01 - In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar. Stir in melted butter until well combined and the mixture resembles wet sand. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch square baking dish or a 9-inch round pan. Refrigerate the crust while preparing the filling.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until well combined. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold into the cream cheese mixture. Spread evenly over the chilled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
03 - In a small saucepan, combine chopped strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until strawberries release their juices and the mixture is syrupy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature. For a smoother topping, mash lightly with a fork or blend.
04 - Spoon the cooled strawberry topping evenly over the cheesecake layer. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the layers to set.
05 - Cut into squares or bars and serve chilled. Enjoy these creamy and refreshing no-bake cheesecake bars.

# Additional Notes:

01 - Refrigerating the layers overnight produces a firmer and more set texture for cleaner cuts.