Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars

If you are looking for a dessert that blends the sweetness of strawberries with the creamy richness of cheesecake, then Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars are the perfect treat for you! These delicious bars not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also offer a refreshing berry flavor that’s perfect for any season. They are easy to make and can be served for a gathering, holiday, or just a simple family dessert night.

Imagine sinking your teeth into layers of creamy cheesecake filling, complemented by a sweet strawberry compote and a crunchy biscuit crust. This recipe combines the best elements of classic strawberry shortcake with the delightful creaminess of cheesecake, creating a dessert that is sure to impress.

In this article, we will go through every aspect of making these delightful Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars—from the ingredients needed to the step-by-step cooking process, serving suggestions, storage tips, and much more. Let’s dive into the world of strawberry bliss!

Ingredients about Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars

List of ingredients with measurements

To make these creamy Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars, gather the following ingredients:

• For the Strawberry Compote:
• 1 ½ cups fresh hulled quartered strawberries
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons corn starch
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice
• For the Crust:
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon packed light brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons melted salted butter
• 1 ½ cups Digestive biscuits cracker crumbs
• 2 tablespoons packed dark brown sugar
• 4 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
• For the Cheesecake Filling:
• 1 block cream cheese (softened)
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 large egg (at room temperature)
• 2 ounces pure white chocolate (melted and cooled)
• ⅔ cup chilled strawberry compote
• 2 teaspoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon freeze-dried strawberry powder

Optional ingredient substitutions

• If you don’t have Digestive biscuits, you can use graham crackers or any other sweet biscuit for the crust.
• For a gluten-free option, replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and ensure that the biscuits are gluten-free as well.
• If you prefer a lower sugar option, consider using a sugar substitute. Just ensure it can withstand baking temperatures.
• For a vegan version, use vegan cream cheese, a flax egg as a substitute for the egg, and coconut cream instead of white chocolate.

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars

Creating the perfect Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars involves several steps, but don’t worry; they are straightforward and enjoyable! Let’s break it down step by step.

Step 1: Make the strawberry compote

Start by preparing your strawberry compote. In a small saucepot, combine the fresh hulled quartered strawberries and the granulated sugar. Cook over medium heat for about 3 minutes, allowing the strawberries to soften.

Now, mix the corn starch with lemon juice in a separate bowl. After the strawberries have softened, add this mixture into the pot with the strawberries. Stir it well, then cook until the mixture starts to boil and thicken. Once done, remove it from heat and transfer it to a bowl. Let it cool completely while you move on to the next steps.

Step 2: Prepare the baking pan and preheat the oven

Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make it easier to remove the bars later. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C), so it’s ready when you begin assembling the layers.

Step 3: Make the crumb topping

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar. Pour in the melted salted butter and stir everything until it forms clumps. Once mixed, let it sit for about 10 minutes to firm up.

While the mixture is resting, spread the crumb mixture over a baking sheet and bake it in the oven for about 15 minutes or until it turns lightly golden. After baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool completely before tossing it with the freeze-dried strawberry powder.

Step 4: Create the crust

Next, it’s time to make the crust! In a food processor, add the Digestive biscuits and dark brown sugar. Pulse until you achieve fine crumbs. Pour in the melted unsalted butter and pulse again until fully combined.

Now press this crumb mixture into the bottom and sides of your lined baking pan to form a solid crust. Bake this crust in the oven for about 10 to 12 minutes, just until lightly golden. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and lower the temperature to 325 degrees F (160 degrees C).

Step 5: Prepare the cheesecake filling

Moving on to the cheesecake filling, add the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and pure vanilla extract to the food processor. Pulse everything until it’s completely smooth. Next, add the egg and pulse again until fully combined.

Pour in the melted white chocolate and pulse until smooth. After that, take the chilled strawberry compote you made earlier and add it to the mixture, along with the freeze-dried strawberry powder and 2 teaspoons of all-purpose flour. Process everything until fully blended.

Step 6: Assemble and bake the cheesecake bars

Pour the cheesecake filling over the baked crust, smoothing out the top with a spatula for an even layer. Bake this in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the filling is set but still has a slight jiggle in the center.

Once done, transfer the pan to a wire rack. Immediately sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the cheesecake filling and press it down gently. Place it back in the oven for an additional 3 minutes. Finally, allow it to cool completely before refrigerating for at least 2 hours before slicing into bars.

How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars

Best ways to serve Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars

Once your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars are chilled and set, it’s time to serve them! Cut them into squares and place them on a decorative plate. For an extra touch, you can drizzle some strawberry compote over each square or serve it alongside a small cup for dipping.

Serving suggestions or pairings

These cheesecake bars pair wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, making for a luxurious dessert experience. As an added bonus, fresh mint leaves can make for a lovely garnish that enhances both the flavor and presentation. Enjoy these bars with a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon treat or serve them at parties as a delightful dessert option.

How to Store Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars

Proper storage methods

To keep your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help maintain their creamy texture and flavor. If using parchment paper, you can also layer the bars between sheets of parchment to prevent them from sticking together.

Tips for reheating or freezing

If you wish to freeze the bars, make sure they are cooled completely. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating is generally not recommended, but if you prefer them warm, you can do so in the microwave for a few seconds. Just be careful not to overheat them, as this can affect the creamy texture.

Tips to Make Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars

Common mistakes to avoid

When making these bars, avoid overmixing the cheesecake filling after you add the egg. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, causing the cheesecake to crack during baking. Additionally, be sure not to skip chilling the filling before serving; this is crucial for the best texture!

Helpful tips for better results

To make sure your cheesecake filling is creamy and smooth, ensure that your cream cheese is fully softened before starting. This will help in blending it seamlessly. Moreover, allowing the cheesecake to chill in the fridge for at least two hours before serving enhances its flavor and makes it easier to cut into uniform slices.

Variation of Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars

Suggested variations or twists on the recipe

Feel free to get creative with your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars! You can substitute the strawberries with other berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a mixed berry cheesecake.

Moreover, consider adding a layer of lemon curd on top of the cheesecake filling before sprinkling with crumbs for a delightful lemon twist.

Adjustments for dietary preferences

For a healthier option, you can use a low-fat cream cheese and substitute some of the sugar with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.

Make sure to check ingredient labels if you’re looking for vegan options or alternatives for specific dietary needs.

FAQs

What can I do if the dish isn’t turning out right?

If your cheesecake isn’t setting properly, it likely needs more time in the oven. A slight jiggle in the center is normal, but if it is still overly liquid, give it additional baking time and keep an eye on it to prevent overbaking.

If the bars crack, don’t stress—the taste will still be delicious! You can always cover cracks with the crumb topping or serve them with compote on the side to make them look appealing.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars are perfect for making ahead of time. In fact, they taste even better after chilling in the fridge for a few hours or overnight, allowing the flavors to meld together.

You can make them a day or two in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve them.

What can I substitute for ingredients?

If you don’t have a particular ingredient on hand, many substitutes work well. For instance, if you’re out of white chocolate, consider using yogurt or sour cream for a slight tang and creaminess.

You can also swap the granulated sugar for brown sugar or use a sugar substitute based on your preference. Just ensure whatever substitute you choose can handle the baking process without affecting the overall flavor.

Your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars are now complete! Whether for a special occasion or a sweet treat at home, these bars are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors, and happy baking!

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