Introduction
These Strawberry Cheesecake Bars combine a buttery shortbread crust with a smooth, tangy cheesecake layer and a sweet, fruity swirl of strawberry jam. They’re incredibly easy to make, perfect for sharing, and the festive sprinkles add a fun, colorful finish. You’ll love how the classic flavors of strawberry cheesecake come together in a convenient, handheld bar.
Prep & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 39 minutes
- Total Time: 54 minutes
- Servings: 9 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla powder (use half this amount if you prefer less rich vanilla flavor)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 8 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
- 1 cup strawberry jam (divided)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla powder (use half this amount if you prefer less rich vanilla flavor)
- 1 tablespoon festive sprinkles
- 1/4 cup M&M’s® Strawberry
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, make the crust. Combine the 1 cup room-temperature butter, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and 2 teaspoons vanilla powder (use half this amount if you prefer less rich vanilla flavor). Beat with a mixer on medium speed until creamy and smooth.
- Gradually add the 2 cups of all-purpose flour to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed just until a soft dough forms. Press this dough evenly and firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Prick the dough all over with a fork. Par-bake for 15 minutes.
- While the crust bakes, prepare the cheesecake filling. In a clean bowl, beat the 8 ounces of room-temperature cream cheese until smooth. Add the 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 egg, and 1 teaspoon vanilla powder (use half this amount if you prefer less rich vanilla flavor). Beat again until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy.
- When the crust is done par-baking, remove it from the oven (leave the oven on). Spread 1/2 cup of the strawberry jam in a thin, even layer over the warm crust.
- Pour the prepared cheesecake filling over the jam layer and smooth the top.
- Dollop the remaining 1/2 cup of strawberry jam over the cheesecake layer. Use a knife or toothpick to gently swirl the jam into the filling to create a marbled effect.
- Scatter the 1 tablespoon of festive sprinkles and the 1/4 cup of M&M’s® Strawberry candies evenly over the top.
- Bake for 24-26 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center only has a slight wobble.
- Let the bars cool completely in the pan set on a wire rack. Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the entire slab out of the pan. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before cutting into 9 squares.
Variations
- Fruit Swirl: Use a spoon to create deeper, more dramatic swirls for a beautiful marbled effect.
- Cookie Cutter Shapes: For a party, chill the whole slab thoroughly, then use cookie cutters (like hearts or stars) to cut out fun shapes instead of squares.
- Glazed Finish: After the bars are chilled, drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze over the top for extra sweetness and decoration.
- Individual Servings: Press the shortbread dough and layer the fillings into a lined muffin tin to create individual mini cheesecake bites, adjusting the bake time down slightly.
Tips for Success
- Ensure both the butter and cream cheese are truly at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free dough and filling.
- Use a glass or flat-bottomed measuring cup to press the crust firmly and evenly into the pan; this prevents a crumbly base.
- Don’t over-swirl the jam, or it will blend completely into the cheesecake layer. A few gentle passes with a knife are enough.
- Chilling the bars is non-negotiable—it sets the cheesecake layer for clean, sharp cuts.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They are best served chilled straight from the fridge. For longer storage, you can wrap individual bars tightly and freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
FAQ
Can I use a different flavor of jam?
Absolutely. Raspberry, blueberry, or apricot jam would all work wonderfully as a substitute for strawberry jam.
My crust seems too crumbly when mixing. What did I do wrong?
You may have over-mixed the dough after adding the flour. Mix just until the flour is incorporated and the dough comes together. If it’s still too crumbly, add a teaspoon of cold water to help it bind.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, these are an excellent make-ahead dessert. Prepare, bake, chill, and store them in the refrigerator for up to two days before serving.
Why do I need to par-bake the crust?
Par-baking (or blind baking) ensures the bottom crust sets and becomes firm, preventing it from becoming soggy once the wet cheesecake filling is added.
Can I omit the sprinkles and candies?
Yes, the sprinkles and M&M’s® are for festive decoration and added texture. You can leave them off for a simpler presentation or substitute with sliced almonds or a dusting of powdered sugar.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The edges should look puffed and set, while the center should have a slight jiggle (like Jell-O) when you gently shake the pan. It will firm up completely as it chills.