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Strawberry Cheesecake Brownie Bars Recipe

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4.9 from 119 reviews

These Strawberry Cheesecake Bars with a fudgy brownie crust combine the rich, chocolatey base of a classic brownie with a creamy, tangy cheesecake layer swirled with fresh strawberry puree. Topped with melted chocolate and fresh strawberry halves, these bars offer a perfect balance of decadent flavors and beautiful presentation, ideal for dessert lovers seeking an indulgent treat with a fruity twist.

Ingredients

Brownie crust:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/3 cup unsweetened dark cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp baking powder

Cheesecake layer:

  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/3 cup sour cream
  • 1/3 cup diced fresh strawberries

Strawberry swirl:

  • 1/3 cup reserved cheesecake batter
  • 2 tbsp strawberry puree or jam

Topping:

  • 1/3 cup melted chocolate
  • 6–8 fresh strawberry halves

Instructions

  1. Prepare the pan and preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal of the bars later.
  2. Make the brownie crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and granulated sugar. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until fully incorporated.
  3. Bake the crust: Spread the brownie batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 12 minutes to set the crust partially.
  4. Prepare the cheesecake layer: Beat the softened cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth and creamy. Add the granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and sour cream, continuing to beat until well combined and silky. Fold in the diced fresh strawberries gently to incorporate.
  5. Reserve batter and layer: Scoop out 1/3 cup of the cheesecake batter and set aside for the strawberry swirl. Pour the remaining batter evenly over the partially baked brownie crust.
  6. Create the strawberry swirl: Mix the reserved 1/3 cup cheesecake batter with the strawberry puree or jam until blended. Dollop spoonfuls of this mixture over the cheesecake layer, then use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl the strawberry mixture through the cheesecake layer for a marbled effect.
  7. Bake the assembled bars: Return the pan to the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the cheesecake is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
  8. Cool and chill: Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature. Then place them in the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours to fully set and enhance flavors.
  9. Add topping and serve: Before serving, drizzle the top with melted chocolate and garnish with fresh strawberry halves. Slice into 12 to 16 bars and enjoy.

Notes

  • You can substitute fresh strawberries with frozen, just thaw and drain excess moisture before folding into cheesecake batter.
  • Use parchment paper with overhang for easier removal of bars from pan.
  • Let the bars chill thoroughly to ensure clean slicing and optimal texture.
  • For a more intense chocolate flavor, use Dutch-process cocoa powder in the crust.
  • Leftover bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.