Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

Name: Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 1 cup graham cracker crumbs; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/3 cup sugar; 1/2 cup melted butter; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 large eggs; 1 cup sour cream; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love desserts that combine rich chocolate with fresh fruit, and these Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are the perfect example. The creamy cheesecake layer is complemented by a chocolate base and topped with luscious strawberries. They are deceptively simple to make, yet visually stunning, making them perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat on a weekend. Once you try them, I guarantee you’ll be coming back for seconds, so prepare to share—if you can resist eating them all yourself!

Created by

Callie Morgan

Last updated on 2026-01-13T04:01:15.781Z

When I first made these Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars, I knew I wanted to create a dessert that showcased both chocolate and fruit elegantly. The key to success is in the balance; the chocolate crust and rich filling harmoniously blend with the fresh strawberries on top. After several attempts, I found that allowing the cheesecake to chill overnight really enhances the flavors.

As I continued to refine the recipe, I learned that using quality chocolate made a noticeable difference in taste. The chocolate’s richness complements the sweet strawberries perfectly, creating a delightful experience in every bite. Don't skip chilling the bars before slicing; it yields cleaner cuts and enhances texture!

        Why You'll Love These Bars
        Decadent chocolate flavor with a refreshing strawberry topping
Creamy cheesecake texture that delights your palate
Perfect for parties, picnics, or a cozy night in

      

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

The rich chocolate base of these Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars comes from both the cocoa powder and the graham cracker crumbs. This combination provides a depth of flavor that perfectly contrasts with the creamy cheesecake layer. Using high-quality cocoa powder is essential as it influences the overall chocolate intensity; I recommend Dutch-processed cocoa for a smoother finish. Additionally, graham cracker crumbs impart a slightly sweet and buttery flavor that rounds out the crust's taste profile.

Cream cheese is the star of the cheesecake filling, delivering that signature creamy texture we love. Make sure to use full-fat cream cheese for ultimate richness; low-fat versions won't provide the same luxurious mouthfeel. When beating the cream cheese, ensure it's at room temperature to avoid lumps. Gradually adding sugar helps create a smooth mixture, while incorporating eggs one at a time prevents overmixing, which can lead to cracks in the cheesecake after baking.

Perfecting the Baking Process

Baking the cheesecake requires close attention to time and temperature. You want to bake it until the center is set but still slightly jiggly, as it will firm up further while cooling. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture, so a good tip is to use the ‘toothpick test’—insert a toothpick near the center; it should come out clean, but not completely dry. After baking, allow the bars to cool fully on the countertop before refrigerating, as this helps prevent condensation and sogginess.

Chilling is critical for achieving the perfect cheesecake bar consistency. Ideally, allow the cheesecake to set in the refrigerator overnight. However, a minimum of four hours will suffice; during this time, the flavors meld beautifully, and the texture transitions to that delightful creamy cheesecake we aim for. To slice perfectly clean bars, run a sharp knife under hot water before cutting; this technique minimizes cheesecake sticking to the blade and creates clean edges.

Serving and Storing Tips

When it comes to serving these Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars, timing is key. Adding the strawberry topping just before serving retains the fresh flavor and vibrant color of the berries, preventing them from becoming soggy. For added flair, consider drizzling some melted chocolate over the topped bars for an indulgent finish or even a dollop of whipped cream for extra decadence.

If you're looking to make these bars in advance, they store beautifully! Once completely cool and set, cut into bars and place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the uncut cheesecake for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, slice, and top with fresh strawberries.

Ingredients

For the crust

1 cup graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/3 cup sugar
1/2 cup melted butter

For the cheesecake filling

16 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
1 cup sour cream

For the strawberry topping

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Mix the graham cracker crumbs, cocoa powder, and sugar together before adding the melted butter.

Instructions

Prepare the crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, cocoa powder, and sugar. Stir in melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.

Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.

Make the cheesecake filling

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar and mix well. Add vanilla extract, then add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed.

Finally, stir in sour cream until fully incorporated.

Assemble and bake

Pour the cheesecake filling over the chocolate crust, spreading evenly. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the center is set. Allow to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

Prepare the strawberry topping

In a bowl, combine sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Let them sit for 15 minutes to macerate.

Serve

Once the cheesecake has chilled, slice into bars. Top each bar with the macerated strawberries just before serving.

For an even richer flavor, try melting dark chocolate and drizzling it over the bars before serving.

Pro Tips

Make sure to let the cheesecake cool completely before slicing for the best texture and presentation.

Ingredient Variations

Feel free to experiment with the crust! Instead of graham cracker crumbs, you can use crushed Oreo cookies for a different flavor profile. This makes the bars even more chocolatey, enhancing the dessert's decadence. Additionally, for a gluten-free version, gluten-free graham crackers or almond flour mixed with cocoa can provide a delightful alternative without sacrificing taste or texture.

For the cheesecake filling, consider adding a touch of melted chocolate or cocoa powder to the mixture for a deeper chocolate flavor. You can also swap some of the sour cream with Greek yogurt if you're looking for a slightly tangy twist that complements the strawberries. This substitution not only adds flexibility but enhances the health aspect without compromising the creamy texture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your cheesecake cracks while baking, it’s often due to overheating or overmixing. Be vigilant with the baking time and temperature, and make sure your oven’s calibration is accurate. Baking in a water bath can also help keep the temperature even, which minimizes the risk of cracks. If cracks do appear, don’t fret—top them with the macerated strawberries for a charming rustic look.

If you find your cheesecake bars are too firm after chilling, it may be a result of overbaking or too much egg. Ensure that your eggs are at room temperature before mixing, as this will help maintain a creamy texture. In the future, consider reducing the baking time slightly or checking for doneness a few minutes earlier to achieve a softer cheesecake.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, they're perfect for making a day in advance. Just keep them refrigerated until you're ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can use mascarpone cheese or a vegan cream cheese alternative for a lighter version.

→ Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

While fresh strawberries are recommended, you can use frozen, just be sure to thaw and drain them first.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.