Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

Name: Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups chocolate wafer cookies, crushed; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; ½ cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ cup sour cream; 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Highlighted under: Oven Food

I absolutely love making Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars because they combine two of my favorite flavors: rich chocolate and fresh strawberries. Each time I make these bars, I appreciate how the creamy cheesecake layer complements the sweetness of the strawberries. This recipe is perfect for gatherings, as everyone seems to enjoy the delightful balance between the chocolate crust and the fruity topping. Plus, they’re easy to cut into squares for serving, making them a fantastic treat for any occasion.

Created by

Ivy Sanderson

Last updated on 2026-01-13T01:11:36.617Z

When I first attempted to make Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars, I was overwhelmed by the idea of balancing flavors and textures. I quickly discovered that using quality dark chocolate enhances the richness, while the fresh strawberries bring a refreshing acidity that cuts through the sweetness. To make the bars set perfectly, I always let them chill in the refrigerator overnight, which helps the flavors meld beautifully.

The key to achieving a smooth cheesecake filling is to incorporate the cream cheese at room temperature, which ensures it mixes evenly and creates that luscious texture we all crave. Throughout the process, I found myself experimenting with the crust, and I now recommend a combination of chocolate wafer cookies and melted butter for an irresistible crunch.

        Why You'll Love These Bars
        Decadent combination of chocolate and strawberry flavors
Creamy cheesecake texture with a delightful crunch
Ideal for dessert tables and special occasions

      

Understanding the Components

The combination of chocolate and strawberries in these bars creates a delightful juxtaposition of flavors. The chocolate wafer cookie crust is not just a base; it provides a deeply satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheesecake layer. The crushed cookies should be fine enough to hold together but not turn to dust; this ensures a sturdy crust that can support the topping. When mixed with butter and sugar, it should have a moist sand-like texture that presses down easily into the baking dish.

The cheesecake filling offers a rich and creamy texture, owed largely to the cream cheese and sour cream. These ingredients must be at room temperature for optimal blending, allowing you to achieve a smooth mixture without lumps. When adding the eggs, remember to incorporate them one at a time, mixing until fully combined. This step is crucial as it prevents overmixing, which can introduce excess air and lead to cracks in your cheesecake once baked.

Strawberry Topping Tips

The strawberry topping adds a fresh and fruity brightness that balances the richness of the cheesecake. To ensure the strawberries release enough juice, allow them to sit with the sugar and lemon juice for about 10 minutes. This creates a syrupy consistency that will enhance the overall texture and flavor of the bars. If strawberries are out of season, consider substituting with fresh raspberries or even a mixed berry medley for a different yet equally delicious profile.

When layering the strawberries on top, aim for an even distribution across the surface. This not only improves the presentation but also ensures that every bite contains a pleasant combination of cheesecake and fruit. For an extra touch, you can drizzle a bit of melted chocolate over the strawberries before serving, creating a luxurious finish that elevates the dessert without much effort.

Ingredients

For the Crust

1 ½ cups chocolate wafer cookies, crushed
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
¼ cup granulated sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling

16 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup sour cream

For the Strawberry Topping

2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine crushed chocolate wafer cookies, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9x9-inch baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and set aside to cool.

Make the cheesecake filling

In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream until fully combined. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust.

Bake the cheesecake bars

Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until the center is set. Allow the bars to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best texture.

Prepare the strawberry topping

Mix the sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice in a bowl. Let sit for 10 minutes to release juices.

Assemble and serve

Once the cheesecake has chilled, layer the strawberry mixture on top. Cut into squares and enjoy your delicious Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars!

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For a touch of elegance, consider drizzling melted chocolate over the bars before serving. Using fresh, in-season strawberries will enhance the flavor significantly.

Storage and Make-Ahead

These Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are ideal for making ahead of time. Once they've set in the refrigerator for at least four hours, they can be stored in an airtight container for up to five days. To maintain their freshness, avoid cutting the bars until you're ready to serve. If you need to make them further in advance, they can be frozen for up to three months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

When reheating any leftover bars, do so gently; the microwave on a low setting is ideal. Heat for just 10-15 seconds to avoid melting the structure of the cheesecake. Keep in mind that the topping will lose its freshness if reheated, so consider adding a fresh layer of strawberries if serving leftovers the next day.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're looking to make a larger batch for a gathering, this recipe is easily scalable. Double the ingredients and use a 13x9-inch baking dish. Adjust the baking time slightly, checking for doneness a few minutes earlier, as a larger surface area may bake faster. Keep an eye on the edges; they should be set while the center may still have a slight jiggle, which is okay as it will firm up as it cools.

For a smaller batch, you can halve the ingredients and use a 8x8-inch dish. This portion is perfect for a small family or intimate gatherings. Make sure to adjust the baking time accordingly, usually around 5-10 minutes less, and maintain the same vigilance for visual cues to ensure a perfectly baked cheesecake.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes! These bars are best prepared a day in advance to allow them to set properly and for flavors to develop.

→ What if I don't have chocolate wafer cookies?

You can substitute them with graham cracker crumbs or even crushed Oreos for a different flavor.

→ How should I store leftover bars?

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

→ Can I freeze the cheesecake bars?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.