Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars

Name: Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup granulated sugar; ½ tsp baking powder; ¼ tsp salt; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 large egg; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; ½ cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 large eggs; 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced

Highlighted under: Golden Crust & Sweet Cravings

A delightful twist on the classic dessert, these Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars combine the creamy richness of cheesecake with the light, airy texture of shortcake, topped with fresh strawberries.

Created by

Sandra

Last updated on 2025-12-16T17:52:18.961Z

These Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars are perfect for summer gatherings and celebrations. The combination of creamy cheesecake filling and fresh strawberries atop a crumbly shortcake crust makes for a delicious dessert that everyone will love.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich strawberry flavor paired with creamy cheesecake
Light and fluffy shortcake texture
Perfect for summer picnics and gatherings

      

A Perfect Summer Treat

Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate summer dessert, combining the fresh taste of ripe strawberries with the creamy indulgence of cheesecake. As the weather warms up, these bars become a delightful addition to any gathering, be it a picnic, barbecue, or family reunion. Their bright flavor and appealing presentation will surely impress your guests and keep them coming back for more.

The layers of shortcake and cheesecake create a harmonious balance of textures. The shortcake crust is light and airy, providing a beautiful base for the rich cheesecake filling. Topped with fresh strawberries, these bars are not only delicious but also visually stunning, making them a perfect centerpiece for your dessert table.

Easy to Make Ahead

One of the best features of these Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars is how easy they are to prepare in advance. You can whip them up a day or two before your event, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully in the refrigerator. This makes them an excellent choice for busy summer days when you want to enjoy time with friends and family without spending all day in the kitchen.

Simply store the bars in an airtight container in the fridge after they’ve cooled. When you're ready to serve, just slice them into bars and garnish with additional fresh strawberries or whipped cream for an extra touch. Your guests will be amazed at how delicious and fresh they taste, even after being made ahead of time.

Versatile and Customizable

These Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars are incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize them to suit your taste preferences. While strawberries are the star of this recipe, feel free to experiment with other fruits such as blueberries, raspberries, or peaches. Each fruit brings its own unique flavor and can create a different but equally delightful dessert.

You can also modify the cheesecake filling by adding citrus zest, chocolate chips, or even a swirl of fruit puree for added flavor. This adaptability makes this recipe not just a seasonal treat but one that can be enjoyed year-round with your favorite fruits.

Ingredients

For the Shortcake Crust

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup granulated sugar
½ tsp baking powder
¼ tsp salt
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg

For the Cheesecake Filling

16 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 large eggs
2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced

Mix the ingredients thoroughly and layer them as directed in the recipe!

Instructions

Prepare the Shortcake Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the melted butter and egg until well combined.

Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9x9-inch baking pan.

Make the Cheesecake Filling

In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the sugar and vanilla, mixing well. Add the eggs one at a time, being careful not to overmix.

Combine and Bake

Pour the cheesecake filling over the shortcake crust. Top with sliced strawberries. Bake for 30 minutes or until the center is set. Let cool completely before slicing into bars.

Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving for best results!

Storage Tips

To keep your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to five days, making them a great option for meal prep or to enjoy throughout the week. If you want to store them for longer, consider freezing the bars. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy a frozen bar, simply transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. This makes it easy to have a delicious, homemade dessert on hand whenever the craving strikes!

Serving Suggestions

These cheesecake bars are delicious on their own, but there are plenty of ways to elevate the presentation and flavor. Serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. A drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce can also add a delightful contrast to the fruity topping.

For a more festive touch, consider garnishing with mint leaves or a dusting of powdered sugar. These simple additions can transform your dessert into a stunning display that’s perfect for special occasions.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, but fresh strawberries will provide the best flavor and texture.

→ How can I store these bars?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ Is it possible to make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to serve.