Strawberry Cheesecake Bars Easy (Print Version)

Creamy, chilled bars combine fresh strawberry flavor and smooth cheesecake on a sweet graham crust.

# Ingredients:

→ Graham Cracker Crust

01 - 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
02 - 2 tablespoons brown sugar or granulated sugar
03 - 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
04 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Cheesecake Filling

05 - 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
06 - ½ cup granulated sugar
07 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
08 - 1 teaspoon lemon juice
09 - 1 cup heavy whipping cream

# Steps:

01 - In a small bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8- or 9-inch square pan or a glass pie plate to form an even layer. Refrigerate to set while preparing the filling.
02 - In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar with a hand or stand mixer until smooth and creamy with no lumps, scraping the sides as needed. Add the vanilla extract and lemon juice, and mix until just combined. Gradually pour in the heavy whipping cream in 3-4 increments, whipping it into the cream cheese mixture after each addition until fully incorporated and light and fluffy.
03 - Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust, spreading it evenly. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8-12 hours, or until the cheesecake is fully set and chilled.
04 - Before serving, loosen the edges of the cheesecake with a knife. Slice cleanly, wiping the knife after each cut, and top with strawberry jam as desired.