Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Bars

Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Bars are a dreamy layered dessert featuring a buttery shortbread crust, rich cheesecake filling, smooth strawberry mousse, and a crispy strawberry crunch topping. Inspired by classic strawberry shortcake ice cream bars, this decadent treat combines creamy, crunchy, and fruity textures into one irresistible bite. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just because, these bars are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔️ Four delicious layers – Crunchy crust, smooth cheesecake, silky mousse, and crispy topping.
✔️ Perfect balance of flavors – Sweet, tangy, and buttery all in one bite.
✔️ Great for entertaining – These bars are easy to slice and serve at parties.
✔️ Customizable – Swap flavors, add chocolate, or adjust the crunch topping to your liking.
✔️ Make-ahead friendly – Chill overnight for the best texture!

Ingredients

Equipment:

• 8” chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons & cups
• Food processor
• 9×13” cake pan
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Spatula
• Stand mixer (with whisk attachment)
• Hand mixer
• Offset spatula
• Small whisk & spoon
• Fork

For the Strawberry Crunch Topping:

• 23 whole vanilla sandwich cookies (Golden Oreos recommended)
• 2 oz freeze-dried strawberries
• ¼ cup salted butter, sliced into thin pats

For the Shortbread Crust:

• 2 (5.3-oz) boxes shortbread cookies (Walker Shortbread recommended)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour (106g)
• 10 tbsp salted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 3 (8-oz) packages cream cheese (680g), room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 tsp vanilla extract

For the Strawberry Mousse:

• 6 oz fresh strawberries, washed and hulled
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp strawberry powder (optional but enhances flavor)
• 2 cups sour cream
• 2 drops red food coloring (optional)

For the Mascarpone Whipped Cream:

• 8 oz mascarpone cheese, softened but cold
• ¼ cup powdered sugar (86g)
• 1 cup heavy cream, cold
• 1 tsp clear vanilla extract (for a bright white finish)

Directions

Step 1: Make the Strawberry Crunch Topping

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
3. In a food processor, pulse the vanilla sandwich cookies and freeze-dried strawberries until crumbly.
4. Spread the mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Scatter thin pats of butter over the crumbs.
6. Bake for 10–12 minutes, checking after 8 minutes to prevent burning.
7. Let cool completely, then break into small crumbs. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare and Bake the Shortbread Crust

1. In a food processor, pulse the shortbread cookies, sugar, and flour until finely ground.
2. Transfer to a bowl and mix in melted butter until fully incorporated.
3. Line a 9×13” baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
4. Press the crust mixture evenly into the pan using the bottom of a measuring cup.
5. Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 20 minutes, or until lightly golden and fragrant.
6. Allow to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a food processor or stand mixer, blend together:
   • Cream cheese
   • Sugar
   • Heavy cream
2. Mix until smooth (about 3 minutes), scraping down the bowl as needed.
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated after each addition (about 20 seconds per egg).
4. Stir in vanilla extract and mix for 10 more seconds.
5. Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled shortbread crust.
6. Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 45 minutes, until edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.

Step 4: Prepare the Strawberry Mousse

1. In a clean food processor, puree:
   • Strawberries
   • Sugar
   • Strawberry powder (if using)
2. Transfer to a bowl and stir in sour cream and food coloring (if using).
3. Pour the mousse evenly over the cheesecake layer.
4. Bake for 15 minutes, until set but slightly jiggly in the center.
5. Let cool at room temperature for 2 hours, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours.

Step 5: Make the Mascarpone Whipped Cream

1. In a stand mixer bowl, beat together:
   • Mascarpone cheese
   • Powdered sugar
2. Once combined, slowly add cold heavy cream and vanilla extract.
3. Whip on low, gradually increasing speed to high until stiff peaks form (6–7 minutes).
4. Be careful not to overwhip!

Step 6: Assemble the Bars

1. Spread the mascarpone whipped cream evenly over the chilled cheesecake using an offset spatula.
2. Lightly press the strawberry crunch topping over the whipped cream.
3. Cover with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for another 2 hours or overnight for best results.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

1. Remove cheesecake from the pan using the parchment overhang.
2. Slice into 12 equal bars using a sharp knife.
3. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Pro Tips and Variations

✔️ Chill overnight – The flavors and textures improve after resting in the fridge.
✔️ Make ahead – Prepare in advance and store for up to 3 days before serving.
✔️ Try a different crunch topping – Use graham crackers or Nilla wafers instead of Oreos.
✔️ Enhance the strawberry flavor – Add extra freeze-dried strawberries to the mousse.
✔️ Use a chocolate crust – Swap shortbread for chocolate cookies for a twist!

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with hot coffee or iced lattes for a delicious contrast.
• Garnish with fresh strawberries or white chocolate shavings for an elegant touch.
• Serve with vanilla or strawberry ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigeration:

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing:

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

FAQs

❓ Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, but thaw and drain them first to remove excess moisture.

❓ Do I have to use mascarpone cheese?
No, you can substitute it with cream cheese for a slightly different texture.

❓ Can I skip the food coloring?
Absolutely! It’s just for appearance and doesn’t affect the taste.

Conclusion

These Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate layered dessert—rich, creamy, fruity, and crunchy! Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just treating yourself, they’re sure to be a hit.

Print