Philadelphia Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

🍓 Philadelphia Strawberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Ingredients

For the crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 full crackers)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

For the cheesecake filling:

• 2 packages (8 oz each) Philadelphia Cream Cheese, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the strawberry topping:

• 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)

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🧑‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the crust:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang.
3. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
4. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan to form an even layer.
5. Bake for 8–10 minutes. Let cool slightly.

2. Make the cheesecake layer:

1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
2. Add sugar, and beat until combined.
3. Add eggs, one at a time, beating just until blended.
4. Stir in vanilla.
5. Pour the mixture over the crust and spread evenly.

3. Bake the bars:

1. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 30–35 minutes, or until the center is almost set.
2. Remove from oven and cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours.

4. Make the strawberry topping:

1. In a small saucepan, combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries break down and mixture thickens slightly (about 8–10 minutes).
3. If desired, add the cornstarch mixture and simmer 1–2 more minutes until thickened.
4. Let cool completely.

5. Assemble and serve:

1. Once cheesecake is chilled, spread the strawberry topping over the top.
2. Use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the pan.
3. Slice into squares and serve!