Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

Name: Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced; 2 tablespoons chocolate shavings

Highlighted under: Oven Ideas

When I first combined rich chocolate with the fresh, juicy flavor of strawberries, I knew I was onto something special. These Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars have quickly become a favorite in our household. The creamy cheesecake filling pairs perfectly with the chocolate crust and fresh strawberries on top, making each bite an indulgent delight. Whether it's for dessert after dinner or a sweet treat during the day, these bars never fail to impress. Plus, they’re simple enough to whip up for any occasion!

Created by

Verity Langdon

Last updated on 2026-01-13T01:57:35.048Z

Creating the perfect cheesecake bars can seem daunting, but I found that using a no-bake method really simplifies the process. I experimented with different ratios of cream cheese to chocolate, and what worked best is the balance that leaves every bite feeling rich but not overly heavy. This method not only saves time but allows the flavors to shine through beautifully.

One pro tip I've discovered is to let the cheesecake chill for at least four hours after you’ve assembled it. This waiting period helps the flavors meld together and ensures that the bars slice neatly, giving you those perfect layers of chocolate and strawberries. Trust me; the wait is worth it!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh strawberry sweetness
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

The Importance of a Stable Cheesecake

Creating a stable cheesecake filling requires proper incorporation of ingredients. When beating the cream cheese, aim for a smooth consistency before adding the powdered sugar. This will help to avoid lumps and achieve a velvety texture. A common mistake is over-mixing once you add the whipping cream; do so just until you see no streaks, which keeps the filling light and airy while also ensuring it robustly holds its shape.

Chilling the cheesecake is crucial for achieving the perfect setting. Ensure your bars are chilled for at least four hours, but overnight is even better. If your cheesecake wobbles in the center when you gently shake the dish, it needs more time. You can also place a toothpick in the center to check if it comes out clean, indicating that it has set properly.

Making the Most of Your Ingredients

Quality chocolate cookies are key to a flavorful crust. Look for varieties that are rich in cocoa and have minimal additives; this way, your crust will be both flavorful and sturdy, ensuring it holds the cheesecake filling without crumbling. If you can't find chocolate cookies, crushed graham crackers or vanilla wafer cookies can serve as a substitute, but the flavor profile will be different—less chocolatey and richer in buttery notes.

Using heavy whipping cream is essential for a light cheesecake filling. Unlike lighter creams, heavy cream provides the fat needed to create stiff peaks when whipped. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, consider using mascarpone cheese blended with lower fat cream; however, this may alter the traditional flavor, so proceed with caution. Also, make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier blending.

Ingredients

For the crust

1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the cheesecake filling

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

For the topping

1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
2 tablespoons chocolate shavings

Instructions

Prepare the crust

In a bowl, combine chocolate cookie crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until fully mixed. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9x9 inch baking dish. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, then let cool.

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 until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated.

Assemble the bars

Spread the cheesecake filling over the cooled chocolate crust. Smooth out the top with a spatula. Chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours or until set.

Add the topping

Once set, top the cheesecake with sliced strawberries and sprinkle chocolate shavings on top. Slice into bars and serve chilled.

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, use fresh strawberries and high-quality chocolate. This recipe can also be adapted with other fruits like raspberries or blueberries for a different twist!

Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are a crowd-pleaser, and you can elevate the presentation by serving them with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a dollop of whipped cream alongside fresh strawberries. For a fun twist, consider adding a layer of fruit puree in between the crust and cheesecake filling. A strawberry coulis or raspberry sauce can add an additional burst of flavor and color, making your dessert irresistible.

If you're planning to serve these bars for a gathering, slice them into smaller squares to create bite-sized indulgences—perfect for allowing guests to try more than one dessert. You can also pair these with a selection of cheeses and nuts for a delightful dessert platter.

Storage Tips

To keep your cheesecake bars fresh, cover them tightly with plastic wrap or transfer them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can store them in the freezer. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn, and they will keep for up to three months.

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen bars, simply move them to the refrigerator and let them thaw overnight. For a quicker option, you can leave them at room temperature for about an hour before serving. Avoid using a microwave to thaw, as this can result in uneven textures and melting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these bars in advance?

Yes! These cheesecake bars can be made up to two days in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?

If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can use a non-dairy cream cheese substitute made from cashews or tofu.

→ How do I store leftover cheesecake bars?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can I freeze these cheesecake bars?

Yes! You can freeze the cheesecake bars for up to 2 months. Make sure to wrap them tightly before placing them in the freezer.