Strawberry Rhubarb Cheesecake Bars: A Sweet and Tart Delight

Spring’s vibrant flavors come together in these irresistible Strawberry Rhubarb Cheesecake Bars. Imagine a buttery graham cracker crust, topped with a creamy, tangy cheesecake filling bursting with the sweet-tart combination of juicy strawberries and rhubarb. Finished with a glossy strawberry glaze, these bars are the perfect balance of textures and tastes – creamy, crunchy, sweet, and tart all in one delightful bite. They’re elegant enough for a special occasion, yet simple enough for a weeknight dessert. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Prepare to be transported to a sun-drenched spring afternoon with every delicious mouthful of these Strawberry Rhubarb Cheesecake Bars. This recipe is a celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients, making it a truly unforgettable treat.

Strawberry Rhubarb Cheesecake Bars

These delightful bars combine the tangy sweetness of strawberry rhubarb with a creamy cheesecake filling and a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfect for a summer dessert!

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 12 bars

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• 9x13 inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Food processor or ziploc bag
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

  

Crust Ingredients

• 1.5 cups Graham cracker crumbs
• 0.25 cups Granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons Unsalted butter, melted

Filling Ingredients

• 16 ounces Cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup Granulated sugar
• 2 Large eggs
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
• 1 cup Sour cream
• 1 cup Chopped rhubarb
• 1 cup Chopped strawberries

Topping Ingredients

• 0.5 cup Strawberry preserves
• 0.5 cup Chopped strawberries optional

Instructions

 

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to lift the bars out later.
• Make the crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until evenly moistened. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
• Make the filling: In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract and sour cream until well combined.
• Fold in the chopped rhubarb and strawberries.
• Pour the filling over the crust.
• Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set around the edges and the center is just slightly jiggly. Let cool completely before adding the topping.
• Spread strawberry preserves evenly over the cooled cheesecake filling. Sprinkle with optional chopped strawberries.
• Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting and serving.

Notes

For a more intense strawberry flavor, use freeze-dried strawberries. You can also substitute other berries, such as raspberries or blueberries, for part or all of the strawberries.

Keyword bars, cheesecake, easy dessert, no-bake crust, rhubarb, strawberry, summer dessert

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Rhubarb Cheesecake Bar Recipe

These Strawberry Rhubarb Cheesecake Bars offer a unique and delightful twist on classic cheesecake. Forget about individual cheesecakes requiring individual baking – these bars are easier to make and serve, perfect for potlucks, parties, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. The combination of sweet strawberries and tangy rhubarb creates a flavor profile that’s both refreshing and comforting. The creamy cheesecake filling perfectly complements the crunchy graham cracker crust, offering a delightful textural contrast. The vibrant color of the strawberries and rhubarb makes these bars visually appealing, adding an extra layer of enjoyment before you even take a bite. You’ll love how effortlessly these bars come together, requiring no special baking skills. They are also incredibly versatile; you can easily adjust the sweetness and tartness to your liking. Plus, the make-ahead capability is a huge bonus! Prepare them ahead of time and simply chill until ready to serve. These bars are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, earning you rave reviews from family and friends. It’s the perfect dessert for any spring or summer gathering, or a simple treat to brighten your day.

Why You Should Try This Strawberry Rhubarb Cheesecake Bar Recipe

Beyond their deliciousness, these Strawberry Rhubarb Cheesecake Bars offer a number of compelling reasons to give them a try. First, they showcase the best of seasonal produce. Strawberries and rhubarb are at their peak flavor during spring and early summer, making these bars a true taste of the season. Second, they are incredibly versatile. Adjust the sweetness to your liking, add a sprinkle of nuts for extra crunch, or experiment with different types of berries. The recipe is your canvas for culinary creativity. Third, they are incredibly convenient. The bar format makes them perfect for potlucks, parties, and gatherings. No fussing with individual servings – simply cut and serve! They also store well in the refrigerator, making them a great make-ahead dessert. Lastly, these bars offer a beautiful presentation. The vibrant colors of the strawberries and rhubarb make them a visually appealing addition to any dessert spread. You’ll impress your guests with your baking skills, without the stress of a complicated recipe.

Ingredients and Utensils for Perfect Strawberry Rhubarb Cheesecake Bars

Gathering the right ingredients and tools is key to baking success. This section details everything you need for creating these delectable Strawberry Rhubarb Cheesecake Bars.

Ingredients:

• Crust:
• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 full graham crackers)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons (3 ounces) unsalted butter, melted
• Filling:
• 16 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature (very important for smooth texture!)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup chopped rhubarb (about 2 stalks, depending on size)
• 1 cup chopped strawberries (about 1 pint)
• Topping:
• ½ cup strawberry preserves (or your favorite jam)
• ½ cup chopped strawberries (optional, for extra strawberry goodness!)

Utensils:

• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Food processor or zip-top bag and rolling pin (for crushing graham crackers)
• Mixing bowls (at least two, preferably three)
• Rubber spatula or wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Parchment paper (for easy removal from the pan)
• Whisk
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Small saucepan (for gently heating the strawberry preserves, optional)

Detailed Recipe Steps for Strawberry Rhubarb Cheesecake Bars

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your perfect Strawberry Rhubarb Cheesecake Bars. Remember, patience and attention to detail are key to baking success!

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
2. In a food processor or using a zip-top bag and rolling pin, crush the graham crackers into fine crumbs. **Aim for a consistent crumb size for a uniform crust.**
3. Add the granulated sugar to the graham cracker crumbs and mix well. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the crumbs are evenly moistened. **Don’t overmix, or the crust will be tough.**
4. Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup or your fingers to create a compact, even layer.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden. **Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.**
6. Remove from the oven and let cool completely before adding the filling.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. **Ensure the cream cheese is truly softened for a smooth, lump-free filling.**
2. Gradually add the granulated sugar, beating until well combined. **Don’t rush this step; ensure the sugar is fully incorporated.**
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. **Beat gently to avoid overmixing, which can lead to cracks in the finished bars.**
4. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until just combined. **Avoid overmixing to prevent a tough texture.**
5. Gently fold in the chopped rhubarb and strawberries. **Gentle folding preserves the fruit pieces and prevents them from breaking down too much.**

Step 3: Bake and Cool

1. Pour the filling over the cooled crust. **Spread evenly to create a uniform layer.**
2. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is set around the edges and just slightly jiggly in the center. **Don’t overbake; the center will continue to set as it cools.**
3. Remove from the oven and let cool completely on a wire rack. **This cooling process is crucial for preventing cracks and ensuring a smooth texture.**
4. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the filling to fully set.

Step 4: Add the Topping

1. Gently heat the strawberry preserves in a small saucepan over low heat until slightly softened. This creates a smoother, more easily spreadable topping.
2. Spread the preserves evenly over the top of the cooled cheesecake filling.
3. If desired, sprinkle with the extra chopped strawberries for added visual appeal and flavor.

Step 5: Cut and Serve

1. Once the topping has set, carefully lift the bars from the pan using the parchment paper (if used). Cut into squares and serve chilled. These bars are best served cold!

Tips and Variations for Strawberry Rhubarb Cheesecake Bars

Elevate your Strawberry Rhubarb Cheesecake Bars with these helpful tips and exciting variations.

• For a richer crust: Use digestive biscuits instead of graham crackers.
• Add some crunch: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the crust for extra texture.
• Spice things up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm, comforting twist.
• Make it vegan: Substitute the cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative and use vegan butter in the crust. Experiment to find a brand you like the texture of.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or make your own crust using almond flour or gluten-free digestive biscuits.
• Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the sugar in both the crust and the filling. Taste as you go!
• Don’t overmix the filling: Overmixing can lead to a tough texture. Mix until just combined.
• Let it cool completely: Allowing the cheesecake to cool completely before adding the topping and refrigerating prevents cracks and ensures a smooth, even surface.
• Make it ahead: These bars can be made a day or two in advance, allowing the flavors to meld and the cheesecake to fully set.

Nutritional Values and Benefits of Strawberry Rhubarb Cheesecake Bars

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients used. Use a nutrition calculator for a precise value based on your ingredients.)

While these bars are a delightful treat, it’s worth noting their nutritional components. They contain calories from fat (primarily from the butter and cream cheese), carbohydrates (from the graham crackers and sugar), and protein (from the cream cheese and eggs). The strawberries and rhubarb provide valuable vitamins and antioxidants. Strawberries are rich in Vitamin C, an important antioxidant, while rhubarb is a good source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion. It’s important to enjoy these bars in moderation as part of a balanced diet. The nutritional value can be slightly altered by choosing different ingredients, such as using less sugar or adding healthier fats like coconut oil. Always consult a nutritionist or dietician for personalized dietary advice.

FAQs

In conclusion, these Strawberry Rhubarb Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat that perfectly blends the sweet and tart flavors of spring. The recipe is straightforward yet yields impressive results, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. Don’t forget to share your baking experience in the comments below! And if you try this recipe, please share a picture on Pinterest and tag us! We’d love to see your creations. For more delicious recipes, check out our other articles on RecipesLora like our amazing chocolate chip cookies and lemon bars recipes. Happy baking!