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Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars

Delicious cheesecake bars with a buttery graham cracker crust and topped with a glossy strawberry glaze, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 16 bars
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the crust
  • 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 11-12 full crackers)
  • 0.25 cups granulated sugar
  • 6 tbsp butter (melted)
For the cheesecake filling
  • 2 pkg cream cheese (8 oz each, softened)
  • 0.5 cups granulated sugar
  • 0.25 cups sour cream
  • 0.5 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 pcs eggs (room temperature)
For the strawberry topping
  • 1.5 cups fresh strawberries (chopped)
  • 5 tbsp sugar
  • 3 tbsp water
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 tsp cornstarch
  • 0.5 cups white chocolate chips

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line an 8x8 or 9x9 pan with a parchment sling and spray lightly with baking spray.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup granulated sugar, and melted butter until evenly combined.
  3. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan using a flat measuring cup or tamper.
Cheesecake Filling
  1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, ½ cup granulated sugar, sour cream, and vanilla on medium speed until smooth.
  2. Add the eggs and mix on low speed until just blended. Do not overmix.
  3. Pour the filling over the crust and smooth the top.
  4. Bake for 25-35 minutes until the center is almost set but still jiggles slightly.
  5. Cool to room temperature (1-2 hours), then refrigerate for 3-4 hours to fully set.
Strawberry Topping
  1. In a small saucepan, combine chopped strawberries, 5 tbsp sugar, 3 tbsp water, and 1 tbsp lemon juice. Simmer until strawberries release juices.
  2. Stir 2 tsp cornstarch into 1 tbsp cold water to make a slurry; whisk into the simmering strawberries until thick and glossy.
  3. Let the mixture cool to room temperature.
Assembly
  1. Once the cheesecake is chilled, spoon the strawberry glaze over the top.
  2. Scatter ½ cup white chocolate chips across the glaze.
  3. Refrigerate for 30-60 minutes to set the topping.
  4. Lift the parchment sling to remove the slab and cut into squares.

Notes

For best results, soften cream cheese before mixing, and ensure the crust is packed firmly to prevent crumbling. Allow the bars to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving for a creamier texture.