Strawberry Cheesecake Bars No Bake

Name: Strawberry Cheesecake Bars No Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs; ⅓ cup sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; ½ cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, pureed (plus additional for topping); 1 cup whipped cream

Highlighted under: Dessert & Baking Essentials

I adore making these no-bake strawberry cheesecake bars, especially when I'm craving a dessert that’s both refreshing and indulgent. The creamy filling, combined with the tartness of fresh strawberries, creates a perfect balance that I can't resist. Plus, the no-bake aspect means I can whip them up quickly and avoid heating up the kitchen. Whether it's a summer gathering or a simple weeknight treat, these bars never disappoint and always get rave reviews!

Created by

Ariana Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:10:14.405Z

When I first attempted these no-bake strawberry cheesecake bars, I quickly realized how simple yet gratifying the process could be. The key is using fresh strawberries to enhance the natural sweetness of the cream cheese, and I learned that allowing the bars to chill for at least an hour makes a significant difference in achieving the perfect texture. They come out creamy and smooth, making every bite a delight.

I experimented with various crusts and settled on a graham cracker base, which complements the light, creamy filling beautifully. Additionally, I found that blending some whole strawberries into the filling not only adds flavor but also gives those lovely pink swirls that make each bar visually stunning. These details elevate an already easy recipe to a new level of deliciousness!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy texture that's completely satisfying without being overly heavy
Fresh strawberry flavor that shines with every bite
Quick and easy preparation with no baking required for hassle-free enjoyment

The Importance of the Crust

The crust serves as the foundation of your strawberry cheesecake bars, providing a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling. Using graham cracker crumbs is traditional, as they add a sweet, slightly caramelized flavor. It's crucial to mix the crumbs with melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand, allowing it to hold together effectively. Be sure to press it firmly into the pan; if it's too loose, it may crumble when you cut the bars.

For a gluten-free option, you can substitute with almond flour or gluten-free cookies. Just ensure that you adjust the sugar content accordingly, as some gluten-free options can vary in sweetness. Once the crust is packed firmly, bake it in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes if you prefer a toasted flavor, but for a no-bake version, chilling it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes will suffice to set it up.

Crafting the Perfect Filling

The filling is where your no-bake strawberry cheesecake bars truly shine. It's important to soften the cream cheese at room temperature for about 30 minutes to make mixing easier and achieve that smooth, creamy texture. This prevents lumps in your filling, which can be unappetizing. When adding the pureed strawberries, make sure they are well-blended to ensure the flavor is consistently distributed throughout the filling.

Using fresh strawberries not only enhances the taste but also gives you a vibrant color that brightens up the dessert. If you're short on time, you could use store-bought strawberry puree or frozen strawberries (thoroughly thawed and drained) as an alternative. Be aware that frozen strawberries may make your filling slightly more watery, so drain them well before blending. This filling can also serve as a base for other flavors; consider adding a teaspoon of lemon juice for a zesty twist!

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create the ultimate strawberry cheesecake bars.

For the crust

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
⅓ cup sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the filling

8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, pureed (plus additional for topping)
1 cup whipped cream

Once you have all these ingredients, you're ready to start making your dessert!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your no-bake strawberry cheesecake bars.

Prepare the crust

In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9x9-inch baking dish.

Make the filling

In another bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually mix in the pureed strawberries until well incorporated. Gently fold in the whipped cream until the filling is light and fluffy.

Assemble the bars

Spread the cheesecake filling over the crust evenly. Top with additional sliced strawberries for decoration. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.

Serve

Cut into bars and serve chilled for a refreshing dessert experience!

Enjoy your delicious no-bake strawberry cheesecake bars!

Pro Tips

Using a hand mixer makes it easier to achieve a smooth filling. Additionally, try to use fresh strawberries for the best flavor and color in your bars.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These strawberry cheesecake bars are perfect for making ahead of time. After assembling, you can cover them tightly with plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall taste. However, I recommend adding fresh strawberries on top just before serving to ensure they remain vibrant and fresh.

If you want to freeze the bars, cut them into individual portions and wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. Keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different after freezing but still delicious!

Serving Suggestions

These cheesecake bars are delightful on their own, but you can elevate them further with some creative serving suggestions. Drizzle a homemade strawberry sauce over each piece for an extra burst of flavor. This can be easily made by cooking down some strawberries with a little sugar until saucy. Alternatively, serve them alongside a small scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures.

Garnishing with mint leaves not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the presentation and offers a fresh note that pairs nicely with the strawberries. For those who enjoy a bolder flavor, consider a light dusting of crushed graham crackers or chopped nuts on top to give an added crunch with each bite.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but fresh strawberries yield the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, ensure they are thawed and well-drained.

→ How long do these bars last in the fridge?

They can last up to 4 days in the refrigerator if stored in an airtight container.

→ Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars are perfect for making ahead of gatherings. Just allow them to set overnight for the best texture.

→ Is there a substitute for cream cheese?

You can use mascarpone or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative if you prefer a different option.