Philadelphia Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat the softened Philadelphia cream cheese until smooth (about 1 minute).
Add the sugar and beat again until fully incorporated and creamy.
Mix in the eggs, one at a time, beating after each addition.
Add vanilla extract and sour cream, and mix until just combined (do not overbeat).
Pour the filling over the pre-baked crust and smooth the top.

Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake Bars

Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 35–40 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle.
Let cool at room temperature for 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight) until completely set.

Step 5: Make the Strawberry Topping

While the bars chill, make the topping:

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice.
Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries break down slightly.
Stir in the cornstarch-water mixture and cook for another 1–2 minutes until thickened.
Remove from heat and let it cool completely before using.

🍓 Tip: You can mash the strawberries slightly for a more spreadable topping or leave them chunky for texture.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

Once the cheesecake is fully chilled and firm, lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper.
Spread the cooled strawberry topping evenly over the cheesecake surface.
Slice into bars (clean the knife between cuts for sharp edges).

Storage Tips

Refrigerator: Store covered bars in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Freeze individual bars (without topping) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and top with strawberries before serving.

Variations to Try

Swirl it: Add dollops of strawberry puree to the cheesecake before baking and swirl with a knife for a marbled look.
Berry Mix: Use blueberries, raspberries, or a combination for the topping.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the strawberry layer for a gourmet twist.

Final Thoughts

Philadelphia Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are the perfect blend of simplicity and indulgence. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving something sweet and refreshing, these bars offer everything you want in a dessert: creamy texture, fruity freshness, and a crunchy base.

With this easy step-by-step method, you’ll be making bakery-quality cheesecake bars in your own kitchen. So grab that cream cheese, and let your next baking session be one to remember!