Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

Name: Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 16 bars
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 large eggs; 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped; 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Favorites

When I first combined chocolate and strawberries for these cheesecake bars, I knew we were onto something special. The rich, velvety chocolate pairs beautifully with the fresh sweetness of strawberries, creating a decadent dessert that feels luxurious yet is surprisingly straightforward to make. The layers of creamy cheesecake and crunchy crust make each bite a delightful experience. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, these bars are guaranteed to impress anyone craving a sweet treat. I’m excited to share this recipe with you!

Created by

Lauren Mitchell

Last updated on 2026-01-13T01:55:35.930Z

When I first made these chocolate strawberry cheesecake bars, I didn’t expect them to become a family favorite. The creamy filling, combined with the luscious chocolate and tart strawberries, creates a perfect balance that everyone loves. I experimented with different cheese proportions until I found the consistency that really melts in my mouth.

One fantastic tip I learned was to chill the bars overnight before slicing them. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and helps achieve clean, gorgeous slices, which are always a hit for presentation. I can’t wait for you to try them!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Indulgent layers of rich chocolate and creamy cheesecake
Fresh strawberries add a delightful burst of flavor
Easy to make ahead and perfect for sharing

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in these Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The cream cheese is essential for creating that creamy, smooth filling. Make sure to let it soften to room temperature for easier blending; this will help you avoid lumps in your cheesecake. Using full-fat cream cheese gives the richest flavor and creamy texture, so I recommend steering clear of lower-fat options for this recipe.

The combination of chopped strawberries and chocolate chips in the filling not only enhances the taste but also contributes to the visual appeal of the bars. As the cheesecake bakes, the strawberries will soften, releasing their juices, which adds subtle flavor and moisture. For a twist, you could substitute the fresh strawberries with raspberries or blueberries, adjusting the sugar slightly if the berries are more tart.

Techniques for a Successful Bake

When preparing the crust, pressing the graham cracker mixture firmly is key to creating a solid base. You want it evenly packed, as this helps prevent crumbling when serving. A flat bottomed measuring cup can work wonders here for achieving an even layer. Watch the crust closely while baking; it should be golden and slightly firm to the touch, which usually takes about 10 minutes. Allow it to cool completely before adding the cheesecake filling.

While baking the cheesecake, it is crucial to monitor the center for doneness. It should be set yet still slightly jiggly in the middle when you take it out. This will keep your bars from becoming dry. Letting it cool in the oven with the door ajar allows for a gradual temperature change, which minimizes the risk of cracks. Cracked cheesecakes are often a result of rapid cooling, so keep that in mind!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to start making your chocolate strawberry cheesecake bars.

For the Crust

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling

16 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 large eggs
1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
1/2 cup chocolate chips

Additional Notes

Make sure to let the cheesecake cool completely before slicing.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious chocolate strawberry cheesecake bars.

Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9x9 inch baking pan. Bake for 10 minutes and let it cool.

Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Add vanilla extract and mix well. Then, incorporate eggs one at a time, mixing just until blended. Gently fold in the chopped strawberries and chocolate chips.

Combine and Bake

Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust. Bake for 30 minutes or until the center is set and slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door ajar for 30 minutes.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. When ready, lift out of the pan using the edges of the parchment paper, slice, and enjoy!

Enjoy!

These bars are perfect for dessert parties or a sweet treat at home.

Pro Tips

For an added touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the top before serving or garnish with whole strawberries.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These cheesecake bars can be made ahead of time, which makes them an excellent option for gatherings. Once cut, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you want to make them even earlier, consider freezing the uncut cheesecake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the fridge overnight before slicing.

When it comes to serving, consider topping the bars with extra fresh strawberries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce to enhance the presentation. If you want to add a crunchy element, sprinkle some crushed graham crackers or toasted nuts on top right before serving. This adds a delightful texture contrast which can elevate your dessert experience.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One of the most common issues with cheesecake is the risk of it cracking during baking. If you do notice cracks forming, don’t panic! They can often be masked with a dusting of powdered sugar or a layer of whipped cream on top. If you prefer to prevent them in the first place, ensure that your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing, and avoid overmixing after adding the eggs to maintain a stable filling.

Another potential pitfall is achieving the right balance between the chocolate and strawberries. Depending on the chocolate chips you use, the sweetness may vary. If you are using semi-sweet chocolate and find that the bars are too sweet, you can reduce the sugar in the filling by a couple of tablespoons. This adjustment allows the natural tartness of the strawberries to shine through, creating a more balanced flavor profile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture.

→ How should I store the cheesecake bars?

Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I make these gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.

→ What if I don’t have chocolate chips?

You can substitute cocoa powder for a richer chocolate flavor; just adjust the sugar accordingly.