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 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 tablespoon baking powder; ¼ teaspoon salt; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; ½ cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 large egg; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Highlighted under: Dessert Time

I adore making Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars whenever I want to impress my guests with something delectable and refreshing. The combination of rich cheesecake and vibrant strawberries layered onto buttery shortcake creates a symphony of flavors that’s hard to resist. Each bite is a burst of fruity sweetness mixed with creamy delight. Whether for a special occasion or just a sweet treat for myself, these bars never disappoint with their stunning presentation and mouthwatering taste.

Created by

Marina Lowe

Last updated on 2026-02-28T02:09:35.373Z

When I first made these Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars, I aimed for a dessert that highlighted the freshness of strawberries while delivering a satisfying creamy texture. After a few trial runs, I discovered the perfect balance between the shortcake and cheesecake layers, ensuring each bite felt indulgent yet light. The addition of fresh strawberries on top not only elevates the flavor but also gives the bars a beautiful finish.

One tip that helped me perfect these bars was letting them chill in the fridge before cutting them. This not only helps set the layers beautifully but also makes for cleaner cuts. Every time I serve these at gatherings, they become an instant crowd-pleaser!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Light and fluffy cheesecake with a buttery shortcake base
Fresh strawberries add a delightful burst of flavor
Easy to prepare and perfect for sharing at parties

Understanding Your Layers

Each layer of the Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars plays a crucial role in the overall flavor and texture. The shortcake layer, which forms the base, should be slightly crumbly yet firm enough to hold the weight of the cheesecake layer. Be sure to press the dough evenly into the pan to avoid uneven baking. If you notice the edges browning too quickly, you can cover them with foil to ensure the center sets perfectly without over-baking.

The cheesecake layer adds a creamy richness that balances the sweetness of the strawberries. Mixing the cream cheese and sugar until smooth is essential; I recommend using an electric mixer to avoid lumps. Once you add the egg and other ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a cheesecake that cracks during baking, so be gentle in this step.

Strawberry Topping Tips

When preparing the strawberry topping, selecting ripe, sweet strawberries is key to achieving that vibrant flavor. Once hulled and sliced, let them sit with sugar and lemon juice to macerate for about 10-15 minutes. This process draws out the natural sugars and juices, creating a luscious topping that perfectly complements the cheesecake. If you want to amp up the flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt to the strawberry mixture for depth.

For a bit of variation, you can experiment with other berries like raspberries or blueberries, or mix them to create a berry medley. Keep in mind, different fruits may release varying amounts of juice, so adjust the sugar and lemon juice accordingly to maintain the balance of flavor.

Make-Ahead and Storage Suggestions

These cheesecake bars can be made a day in advance, making them an ideal choice for gatherings. After chilling for at least two hours, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Just cover the strawberry topping with plastic wrap to keep it fresh. If you plan on serving them later, I recommend adding the strawberries just before presentation to prevent them from making the cheesecake layer soggy.

For longer storage, consider freezing the un-topped bars. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then add the fresh strawberry topping. This way, you can enjoy the delightful texture and flavor combinations at any time!

Ingredients

Shortcake Layer

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 tablespoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cheesecake Layer

16 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 large egg
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Strawberry Topping

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Make sure to prepare your ingredients ahead of time for a smoother baking experience!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

Make the Shortcake Layer

In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the softened butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until a dough forms. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.

Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add in the egg, vanilla extract, and lemon juice, mixing until creamy. Pour over the shortcake layer.

Bake the Layers

Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until the cheesecake is set and the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool.

Make the Strawberry Topping

In a bowl, mix the strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to release juices.

Assemble and Chill

Once cool, spread the strawberry mixture evenly over the cheesecake. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing into bars.

Enjoy your refreshing dessert, perfect for any celebration!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding a hint of almond extract to the crust or topping with whipped cream before serving. This will enhance the overall taste and presentation.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling these bars up for a larger crowd is easy! If you want to double the recipe, use a 9x13-inch pan. Keep an eye on baking time, as thicker layers may require an additional 5-10 minutes in the oven. Use a toothpick to test for doneness, ensuring it comes out clean from the center of the cheesecake layer.

For smaller gatherings, halving the recipe works well too. You can use a 4x6-inch pan, and the baking time will likely decrease by a few minutes. If you have extra cheesecake filling, you could even bake some mini cheesecake bites in a muffin tin.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your cheesecake layer cracks during baking, it often means it was overmixed or baked at too high a temperature. To rectify this, avoid mixing the filling once you've added the egg, and ensure your oven is properly calibrated; an oven thermometer can help with this.

Another common issue is a greasy or soggy bottom layer. This can occur if the butter is not fully incorporated or if the layer is too thick. Ensure the butter is softened properly, and remember that pressing the mixture firmly into the pan allows for better structural integrity during baking. If you do encounter sogginess, serving the bars chilled helps them firm up.

Serving Suggestions

For a lovely presentation, slice the bars into neat squares and consider garnishing each piece with a sprig of mint or a dusting of powdered sugar. This addition elevates the visual appeal and adds a hint of freshness. Pairing the bars with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can enhance the dessert experience, creating a more indulgent treat.

If you're serving these bars at a party, consider placing them on a dessert platter with other seasonal fruits. A colorful fruit arrangement not only complements the flavors but also creates an inviting spread. The vibrant hues of strawberries and other fruits will draw guests' attention to this delicious offering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen strawberries can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture.

→ How do I store the leftovers?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make these bars a day in advance?

Absolutely! These bars are perfect for making ahead of time; just ensure they are well chilled before serving.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can use mascarpone cheese or ricotta cheese for a different flavor, but it may alter the texture slightly.