Strawberry Cheesecake Bars No Bake

Name: Strawberry Cheesecake Bars No Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 4 h
Yield: 16 bars
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/4 cup sugar; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 2 cups fresh strawberries, pureed; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tbsp lemon juice

Highlighted under: Comfort Desserts

I absolutely adore making no-bake desserts, and these Strawberry Cheesecake Bars have become a favorite in my home. The creamy filling beautifully contrasts the crumbly crust, while the fresh strawberry topping adds a refreshing burst of flavor. It’s the perfect indulgence for warm days when you don’t want to heat up the kitchen. Plus, they come together quickly, which is a bonus for anyone with a busy lifestyle. Trust me, once you try these bars, you won't want to go back to traditional baked cheesecake!

Created by

Clara Jennings

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:28:09.393Z

When I first decided to create these no-bake strawberry cheesecake bars, I was inspired by warm summer afternoons spent enjoying desserts that didn't require an oven. The velvety texture of the cheesecake filling combined with the crunchy graham cracker crust is heavenly. I experimented with different methods of incorporating strawberries, and I found that a fresh puree really enhances the flavor.

One tip I learned along the way is to keep the cream cheese at room temperature before mixing. This way, you’ll achieve a perfect, creamy consistency that doesn’t leave lumps, making the cheesecake filling oh-so-smooth. Don’t forget to let them chill properly in the fridge; it really makes a difference in the overall taste!

Why You'll Love These Bars
Creamy no-bake cheesecake that comes together in minutes
Fresh strawberries provide a vibrant burst of flavor
Perfect treat for summer gatherings or as a refreshing dessert

Understanding the Ingredients

Each component of these Strawberry Cheesecake Bars plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The graham cracker crumbs, combined with melted butter and sugar, form a base that contributes both crunch and sweetness. When pressing the crust into your baking pan, be sure to pack it tightly enough to prevent it from crumbling when you slice the bars later on. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness, making it easier to balance the sweetness of the filling and the strawberries.

The cheesecake filling is the heart of this recipe, with cream cheese providing a rich, creamy texture. Soften the cream cheese thoroughly to avoid lumps—a crucial step for achieving that silky smooth filling. Gradually incorporating the powdered sugar helps prevent the mixture from becoming grainy. Whipping the heavy cream to stiff peaks adds volume and lightness, transforming the filling into a luscious experience that complements the fresh strawberry topping beautifully.

Mastering the Assembly

Assembling the bars might seem straightforward, but it’s where attention to detail pays off. After spreading the cheesecake filling over the crust, it's essential to smooth it out evenly using a spatula for uniform texture. If you notice any air pockets, gently tap the pan on the counter—a simple yet effective way to ensure a smooth surface. Chilling the bars for about two hours allows them to firm up, making slicing easier and cleaner later.

When making the strawberry topping, keep an eye on the mixture as it cooks. You'll want to see a slight thickness forming, which indicates it's ready. If it doesn’t thicken as expected after five minutes, try increasing the heat slightly. Allow the topping to cool completely before pouring it over the cheesecake layer; this prevents it from melting the filling and maintains distinct layers. After chilling, the visual contrast of the creamy cheesecake against the vibrant strawberry topping is simply stunning!

Ingredients

For the Crust

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling

16 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup heavy whipping cream

For the Strawberry Topping

2 cups fresh strawberries, pureed
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions

Prepare the Crust

In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a lined 9x9 inch baking pan.

Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks, and fold it into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated.

Assemble the Bars

Spread the cream cheese filling over the prepared crust, smoothing it out evenly. Refrigerate for about 2 hours to set.

Prepare the Strawberry Topping

In a small saucepan, combine the pureed strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens slightly, about 5 minutes. Let it cool completely.

Finish and Serve

Once the cheesecake layer is set, pour the cooled strawberry topping over the cheesecake. Chill in the refrigerator for an additional 2 hours before slicing into bars and serving.

Pro Tips

For best results, let the bars chill overnight. This promotes a firmer texture and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Storing and Making Ahead

These Strawberry Cheesecake Bars store beautifully, making them an ideal choice for meal prep or gatherings. After cutting them into individual bars, place them in an airtight container, where they can remain fresh in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you want to make them even further in advance, consider freezing them. Just be sure to wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to a month in the freezer without sacrificing their delicious texture.

To thaw frozen bars, simply transfer them to the refrigerator for several hours or overnight. They'll regain their delightful texture, and you'll be ready to indulge once again. However, if you plan to serve them at a gathering, consider leaving them out for 10 to 15 minutes at room temperature before slicing. This allows them to soften slightly, enhancing their creaminess.

Creative Variations

While this recipe is a sensational homage to strawberries, feel free to experiment with other fruits! Raspberries, blueberries, or peaches can make for delightful substitutions in the topping, each providing a unique flavor profile. Just ensure that you adjust the sugar content based on the sweetness of the chosen fruit, especially if using tart varieties like raspberries.

For a twist on the classic cheesecake flavor, try adding a hint of lemon zest to the cream cheese filling for an extra layer of freshness. Additionally, a dash of almond extract combined with the vanilla can present another dimension of flavor that complements strawberries beautifully. Each variation opens up a world of possibilities while retaining the essence of this creamy, refreshing dessert.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before pureeing.

→ How long do these bars last in the fridge?

They can last up to 5 days in the fridge if stored in an airtight container.

→ Can I substitute the cream cheese?

You can use mascarpone cheese for a slightly different flavor, but the texture may vary.

→ Is there a vegan version of this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use cashew cream for the filling and coconut cream for the whipped cream.