Frozen Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

Cheesecake has long been a beloved dessert, adored for its rich, creamy texture and the endless possibilities of flavor combinations. From classic New York-style cheesecake to fruity variations, this indulgent treat has found its way into the hearts (and stomachs) of dessert lovers everywhere. Among the myriad of cheesecake creations, Frosty Strawberry Bliss Cheesecake Bars stand out as a perfect summer dessert, harmoniously blending the lusciousness of creamy cheesecake with the bright, refreshing notes of fresh strawberries. These bars are not only visually stunning, but they also offer a deliciously cooling experience, making them an ideal choice for gatherings, picnics, or simply as a way to savor the warm weather.

Frozen Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

Dive into summer with Frosty Strawberry Bliss Cheesecake Bars, a delightful twist on a classic dessert. These bars combine creamy cheesecake with the vibrant flavor of fresh strawberries, delivering a refreshing treat perfect for gatherings or a sunny afternoon. Easy to slice and serve, they offer all the indulgence of traditional cheesecake without the fuss. With a deliciously crunchy graham cracker crust and a smooth filling, these bars are sure to impress your family and friends.

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Ingredients

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

½ cup unsalted butter, melted

¼ cup granulated sugar

16 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature

½ cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup sour cream

1 cup pureed fresh or thawed frozen strawberries

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

½ cup strawberry jam (optional, for drizzling)

Fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Prep the Crust:

- In a medium mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Stir until the mixture is evenly moistened.

- Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal. Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the pan to form the crust. Set aside.

Make the Cheesecake Filling:

- In a large bowl, using a hand mixer on medium speed, beat the softened cream cheese until it is creamy and smooth, approximately 2-3 minutes.

- Gradually add the powdered sugar, continuing to beat until fully combined and fluffy.

- Blend in the vanilla extract and sour cream until the mixture is smooth and homogeneous.

Add Strawberry Flavor:

- Carefully fold the pureed strawberries and fresh lemon juice into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula. Take care not to overmix, as you want to maintain visible swirls of strawberry throughout the filling.

Assemble the Bars:

- Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust, using a spatula to spread it into an even layer.

- If desired, drizzle the strawberry jam on top. Use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl the jam into the filling for an attractive marbled effect.

Freeze:

- Cover the baking pan tightly with plastic wrap, and place it in the freezer for at least 4 hours, or until the cheesecake is firm to the touch.

Serve:

- Once fully frozen, lift the cheesecake from the pan using the parchment paper. Transfer to a cutting board and slice into bars using a sharp knife, wiping the knife with a damp cloth between cuts for clean edges.

- Optionally, garnish each bar with fresh sliced strawberries for an appealing presentation.

Enjoy:

- Serve the cheesecake bars immediately or store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to one month. Allow to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to achieve a creamier texture.

Prep Time | Total Time | Servings: 20 minutes | 4 hours 20 minutes | 12 bars