Philadelphia Cream Cheese is a staple in many kitchens, and its creamy richness lends itself beautifully to desserts. This recipe takes the classic Philadelphia cheesecake and transforms it into easy-to-make, bite-sized snack bars, bursting with the fresh flavor of strawberries. Perfect for parties, picnics, or a simple afternoon indulgence, these bars are sure to become a favorite.
What Makes These Snack Bars Special?
These aren't your average cheesecake bars. We've focused on creating a recipe that is:
- Easy to Make: No complicated techniques or specialized equipment required. Perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers.
- Deliciously Portable: Individual bars are perfect for grabbing on the go, making them ideal for lunchboxes or road trips.
- Beautifully Adaptable: While we're featuring strawberries, feel free to experiment with other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even a mix!
- Satisfyingly Rich: The creamy Philadelphia Cream Cheese base provides a decadent texture that balances the sweetness of the strawberries.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
This section addresses common questions surrounding Philadelphia Strawberry Cheesecake Snack Bars.
How do I prevent the bars from sticking to the pan?
To prevent sticking, generously grease and flour your baking pan before adding the batter. Parchment paper lining the pan is also a great idea for easy removal.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, you can! However, make sure to thaw them completely and drain off any excess liquid before incorporating them into the batter. This will prevent a soggy bottom.
How long do these bars last?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these bars will typically last for 3-4 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars can be made a day or two in advance. Just store them properly as mentioned above.
What kind of crust can I use?
We recommend a simple graham cracker crust, but you can get creative! Try a digestive biscuit crust, a shortbread crust, or even a brownie base for a richer flavor.
Ingredients for Philadelphia Strawberry Cheesecake Snack Bars
This recipe yields approximately 16 snack bars.
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons (3 ounces) unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 16 ounces (two 8-ounce packages) Philadelphia Cream Cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
Instructions:
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a medium bowl. Press firmly into the bottom of a greased 8x8 inch baking pan.
- Make the Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Gently fold in the sliced strawberries.
- Bake: Pour the filling over the crust. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Cool: Let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting into 16 squares.
Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for smooth and easy mixing.
- Don't Overbake: Overbaking will result in dry bars. Check for doneness around the 25-minute mark.
- Creative Variations: Experiment with different fruits, add a swirl of raspberry jam, or sprinkle chopped nuts on top for added texture.
This recipe provides a delicious and convenient way to enjoy the classic flavors of Philadelphia cheesecake with a fresh strawberry twist. The versatility and ease of preparation make these snack bars a perfect addition to any occasion. Remember to adjust sweetness according to your preferences and enjoy!
