Strawberry Crumble Cheesecake Bars

These Strawberry Crumble Cheesecake Bars are the perfect combination of creamy cheesecake, fresh strawberries, and a sweet crumble topping. The buttery graham cracker crust complements the smooth cream cheese filling, while the crumble adds a delightful crunch. These bars are perfect for a summer dessert or any time you crave a sweet, fruity treat.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
• 1/4 cup flour
• 1/2 cup oats
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup butter, softened

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup sugar. Press into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to form the crust.
3. In a separate bowl, beat together the cream cheese, 1/2 cup sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour over the crust.
4. In another bowl, combine chopped strawberries, flour, oats, brown sugar, and softened butter. Sprinkle this crumble mixture over the cream cheese layer.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheesecake layer is set and the crumble topping is golden. Let cool before cutting into bars.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

• Berry Mix: You can swap the fresh strawberries for other berries like raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries, or even a mix of all three for a more colorful dessert.
• Nutty Crumble: Add chopped nuts, like almonds or pecans, to the crumble topping for extra crunch and flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers and oats to make these bars gluten-free.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store these bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The crumble topping may soften slightly over time, but the flavors will remain delicious.
• Reheating: These bars are best served chilled, but you can warm them slightly in the microwave for a few seconds if you prefer them a bit warmer.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh? Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them before using to avoid excess liquid in the bars.
2. Can I use a different crust instead of graham crackers? Yes, you can substitute graham crackers with crushed vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits for a different flavor.
3. How do I know when the cheesecake layer is set? The cheesecake layer should be firm to the touch and not jiggle when you gently shake the pan.
4. Can I make these bars ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare these bars a day or two ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge until ready to serve.
5. How can I make the crumble topping extra crispy? For a crispier topping, bake the bars for the full 30 minutes, or until the crumble is golden brown and slightly crunchy.
6. Can I make these without eggs? You can try using a flax egg or other egg substitute, but it may affect the texture of the cheesecake layer.
7. Can I freeze these bars? Yes, you can freeze the bars for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container before freezing. Thaw before serving.
8. What other fruits work well in these bars? Besides strawberries, peaches, raspberries, or even a tropical fruit mix like mango and pineapple would be delicious.
9. Can I use light cream cheese? Yes, you can use light cream cheese, though it may affect the texture and richness slightly.
10. Can I make this dessert without a crust? While the crust adds a great base, you can skip it for a lower-carb version, though it will no longer be “bar” style and will need to be served in individual servings.

Conclusion

These Strawberry Crumble Cheesecake Bars are the perfect treat for those who love a balance of creamy, sweet, and crunchy textures. With a buttery graham cracker crust, rich cheesecake filling, and a sweet fruit crumble on top, they’re a dessert that’s sure to impress at any gathering. Simple to make yet indulgent, they’ll become a family favorite in no time!

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