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Creamy Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake Bars – Best Golden Graham Crust Recipe

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These creamy cheesecake bars feature a tangy strawberry swirl atop a buttery Golden Graham crust. Easy to make, visually stunning, and perfect for any occasion, they’re a nostalgic comfort dessert with a modern twist.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups Golden Grahams cereal, crushed
  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped (or frozen, thawed)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for strawberry swirl)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 teaspoon water
  • 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2/3 cup granulated sugar (for filling)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt (for filling)

Instructions

  1. Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
  2. Crush Golden Grahams cereal in a food processor or zip-top bag with a rolling pin until fine. Mix with melted butter, sugar, and a pinch of salt until the texture resembles wet sand.
  3. Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.
  4. In a small saucepan, combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring often, until berries break down and sauce thickens (about 8 minutes). If runny, add cornstarch slurry and cook 1 more minute. Cool completely.
  5. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sour cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Beat until creamy and fully combined.
  6. Pour cheesecake filling over cooled crust and spread evenly. Spoon dollops of cooled strawberry sauce on top. Swirl gently with a toothpick or knife.
  7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly. Tent with foil if browning too quickly.
  8. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate at least 3 hours (overnight preferred) to set.
  9. Lift bars out using parchment overhang. Slice into 16 squares with a sharp knife, wiping blade between cuts.

Notes

Use room temperature dairy for a smooth filling. Don’t overmix after adding eggs to prevent cracks. For gluten-free, use gluten-free cereal or graham crackers. Bars slice best after chilling overnight. Strawberry swirl can be made ahead. Wipe knife between slices for clean edges.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesecake bars, strawberry swirl, Golden Graham crust, easy dessert, spring baking, creamy cheesecake, potluck recipe, make ahead, kid friendly, party dessert

Find it online: https://jodierecipes.com/creamy-strawberry-swirl-cheesecake-bars-best-golden-graham-crust-recipe/