Strawberry Cheesecake Bars No Bake

Name: Strawberry Cheesecake Bars No Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 2 h
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/4 cup sugar; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup heavy whipped cream; 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, pureed; 1 tablespoon gelatin powder; 2 tablespoons water; 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced; Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Sweet Creations Co.

I absolutely love making no-bake desserts, and these Strawberry Cheesecake Bars have become my go-to recipe for warm summer days. The combination of creamy cheesecake and fresh strawberries is not only delicious but incredibly refreshing. Plus, they come together in a snap, allowing me to spend more time enjoying the sunshine. Whether it’s for a family gathering or a simple weekend treat, these bars are always a crowd-pleaser and leave everyone asking for seconds. Give them a try, and indulge in this delightful dessert!

Created by

Imogen Walker

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:31:17.420Z

When I first discovered no-bake cheesecake recipes, I was amazed at how simple they were to make. These Strawberry Cheesecake Bars have since become a favorite in my home. The gelatin in the filling helps set the cheesecake perfectly without the need for baking, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. I learned that gently folding the whipped cream into the mixture keeps that dreamy, airy texture intact.

One tip I always share is to use fresh strawberries for topping, as they add a vibrant color and juicy sweetness that elevates the whole dessert. The contrast between the tart strawberries and the creamy base truly makes each bite special!

Why You'll Love These Bars
Rich, creamy texture that satisfies your sweet tooth
No baking required, perfect for hot days
The fresh strawberries bring a burst of flavor

Texture and Consistency

One of the highlights of these Strawberry Cheesecake Bars is their rich and creamy texture. The combination of softened cream cheese and heavy whipped cream creates a smooth filling that is not overly dense. To achieve the perfect consistency, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing; this prevents lumps and ensures a silky finish. Whipping the cream until soft peaks form adds a lightness that balances the cream cheese's richness, resulting in a dessert that melts in your mouth.

When incorporating the strawberry puree, be mindful not to overmix the filling. Gently folding in the puree allows for a marbled effect that enhances both the flavor and appearance of the bars. If you desire a stronger strawberry taste, feel free to adjust the quantity of puree, but remember that too much liquid can interfere with the setting process. Aim for a smooth, glossy filling as you mix, indicating readiness for chilling.

Ingredient Insights

The choice of strawberries plays a crucial role in the overall flavor of your cheesecake bars. Using fresh, ripe strawberries ensures a naturally sweet and vibrant taste. If fresh strawberries aren’t available, you can use frozen strawberries; just be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before pureeing. This step is essential for maintaining the texture of the filling, preventing it from becoming watery.

The gelatin is also key to ensuring your bars hold their shape when cut. While it might seem complex, dissolving gelatin in water ensures it evenly distributes in the mixture. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, consider using agar-agar as a substitute, keeping in mind you might need to adjust the amount based on the packaging instructions, as it's more potent than gelatin.

Serving and Storage Tips

These bars are best served chilled, making them perfect for hot summer gatherings. To enhance their presentation, try adding a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce when serving. The contrasting textures and colors will elevate your dessert to a new level, impressing your guests. For a fun twist, personalize each bar with unique toppings like crushed nuts or a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs.

If you have leftovers, these bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To extend their shelf life, you might also freeze them; simply cut the bars into squares, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months. Just remember to let them thaw in the fridge before enjoying them again!

Ingredients

For the Crust

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup sugar

For the Filling

16 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup heavy whipped cream
1/2 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
1 tablespoon gelatin powder
2 tablespoons water

For the Topping

1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9x9 inch baking pan. Chill in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.

Make the Filling

In a small bowl, dissolve the gelatin in water and let it sit for about 5 minutes. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped cream and strawberry puree. Finally, add the dissolved gelatin and mix well.

Assemble the Bars

Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust and spread it evenly. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until set.

Add the Topping

Once the cheesecake is set, top with sliced fresh strawberries. Garnish with mint leaves if desired.

Serve

Cut the cheesecake into squares and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For best results, use room temperature ingredients and serve cool to enhance the flavors. You can also swap strawberries with other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for variety!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your cheesecake bars are not setting properly, it often boils down to insufficient gelatin or improper mixing. Make sure the gelatin is fully dissolved before adding it to your filling. If you find your mixture is too soft after chilling, you can try adding a little more gelatin or simply leave it to chill longer. Keep an eye on the consistency; it should be firm yet creamy when ready to serve.

Another common issue is the crust's texture. If it crumbles too easily, it may be because the butter was not adequately combined with the crumbs. Be sure to press the mixture firmly into the pan, creating a solid foundation for your cheesecake filling. This ensures the crust holds together when cut into bars.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with the flavors of your cheesecake bars! Try substituting the strawberries with other berries like raspberries or blueberries for a different fruit experience. Each berry will impart its unique flavor profile while still maintaining the delightful creaminess of the cheesecake. You can even mix them for a colorful and tasty variation.

For a richer flavor, consider adding a couple of tablespoons of lemon juice or zest to the filling. The citrus adds a refreshing kick that complements the sweetness of the strawberries beautifully. Additionally, for a chocolate twist, you can swirl in some melted chocolate into the filling or top the bars with a chocolate ganache for a decadent finish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain them before using to prevent excess moisture.

→ How long will these bars last?

They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

→ Can I make this dairy-free?

You can substitute cream cheese and heavy cream with dairy-free alternatives for a delicious dairy-free version.

→ Is it necessary to use gelatin?

Gelatin helps set the cheesecake, but if you're looking for a vegetarian option, you might consider using agar-agar instead.