Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars combine the flavors of classic shortcake and creamy cheesecake into one irresistible treat. With a cookie crust and a luscious strawberry cheesecake filling, these bars are perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into how to make them step-by-step, ensuring each bite is as delightful as the next.
Ingredients:
Cookie Crust:
- 20 Strawberry Shortcake Oreo Cookies
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Strawberry Cheesecake Filling:
- 12 large strawberries
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 12 Strawberry Shortcake Oreo Cookies, divided
Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. Prepare the Cookie Crust:
- In a food processor, pulse the 20 Strawberry Shortcake Oreo cookies until finely crushed. Transfer the crumbs to a bowl and mix in the melted butter until well combined.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the crust.
3. Prepare the Strawberry Cheesecake Filling:
- Rinse and hull the strawberries. Pat them dry with a paper towel and slice them into thin slices.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
- Add the granulated sugar, flour, salt, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese. Mix until well combined and smooth.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until fully incorporated.
4. Assemble the Bars:
- Spread half of the cheesecake batter over the prepared cookie crust.
- Layer half of the sliced strawberries evenly over the cheesecake layer.
- Place the 12 Strawberry Shortcake Oreo cookies evenly over the strawberries, pressing them slightly into the batter.
- Pour the remaining cheesecake batter over the cookies and spread it evenly.
- Top with the remaining sliced strawberries.
5. Bake and Cool:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set and the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
6. Chill and Serve:
- Once cooled to room temperature, chill the cheesecake bars in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight until firm.
- Lift the chilled cheesecake bars from the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares or bars.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars chilled. Optionally, garnish with whipped cream, additional sliced strawberries, or a dusting of powdered sugar before serving.
Tips for Perfect Cheesecake Bars:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the cream cheese is softened at room temperature to prevent lumps in the cheesecake batter.
- Even Layering: Distribute the strawberries and cookies evenly across each layer for a balanced taste and texture.
- Chilling Time: Refrigerate the bars for the recommended time to allow them to set properly, ensuring clean slices.
Variations:
- Crust Variation: Substitute regular Oreo cookies or graham crackers for the Strawberry Shortcake Oreo cookies for a different flavor profile.
- Topping Options: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top or add a dollop of strawberry jam for an extra burst of flavor.
Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars offer a delightful fusion of flavors that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether served at a party, as a dessert after dinner, or just as a special treat, these bars are sure to impress. Embrace the rich flavors and textures of these cheesecake bars and enjoy the perfect blend of strawberries, cookies, and creamy cheesecake in every bite.
Indulge in the decadence of Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars and share this delightful dessert with friends and family. Enjoy the simplicity of making these bars and savor the luxurious taste they bring to any occasion.