Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

Name: Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 16 bars
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs; ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; ½ cup sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; ¾ cup sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; ½ cup heavy cream

Highlighted under: Modern Meals

I’ve always had a passion for combining flavors that seem miles apart, and that’s exactly what I achieve with these Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars. The rich creaminess of the cheesecake, paired with the sweetness of ripe strawberries and a decadent chocolate base, creates a dessert that is not only visually stunning but also absolutely delicious. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, these bars are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.

Created by

Theodora Blythe

Last updated on 2026-01-13T03:33:35.373Z

My journey to perfecting these Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars was a delicious adventure. I experimented with different ratios of cream cheese to sugar, ultimately finding that balancing the tanginess with sweetness really made the cheesecake filling pop. I also like to use fresh strawberries for their vibrant flavor, which elevates the whole dish.

One tip I learned along the way is to chill the bars in the fridge overnight for the best texture. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a dessert that’s creamy, rich, and utterly satisfying. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh strawberries
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

Mastering the Chocolate Crust

The crust of these Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars is what elevates this dessert to a whole new level. Using a combination of graham cracker crumbs and cocoa powder creates a rich, chocolatey base that perfectly contrasts the creamy cheesecake filling. Make sure to press the crust mixture firmly into the baking dish; this ensures a sturdy base that won't crumble when you cut the bars later. A brief ten-minute bake helps set the crust and deepens the flavor, resulting in a decadent layer that harmonizes beautifully with the strawberries.

If you want to experiment, consider substituting some of the graham cracker crumbs with crushed Oreo cookies for an even more chocolatey twist. This will not only amplify the chocolate flavor but also add a touch of sweetness to the overall profile. Just be aware that the texture may change slightly, so adjust the butter accordingly if the mixture feels too dry.

Crafting the Perfect Cheesecake Filling

The cheesecake filling is where the magic happens; it's creamy and rich, providing a delightful contrast to the crispy chocolate crust. Be sure to have your cream cheese at room temperature for the smoothest consistency. If you accidentally overmix the batter, it can introduce excess air, leading to cracks on the surface during baking. Mix until just combined after adding the eggs to avoid this issue; the mixture should be smooth but not overly aerated.

Fresh strawberries are key to a vibrant flavor in these bars. When you chop them, make sure to remove the hull and slice them into small dice to evenly distribute throughout the filling. If strawberries aren't in season or you want to make this recipe in winter, frozen strawberries can be used; just thaw them and pat dry to remove excess liquid before adding them to the mixture.

Finishing Touch with Chocolate Ganache

The chocolate ganache adds the final layer of decadence to these bars. To achieve that glossy finish, it's crucial to heat the cream just enough to simmer but not to boil; you want to see small bubbles forming around the edges. Once you pour the cream over the chocolate chips, let it sit for a minute before stirring. This step is crucial for ensuring that the chocolate melts evenly and creates a smooth ganache that can be spread easily over the cheesecake layer.

If dark chocolate is more your style, feel free to swap in dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor profile. Keep in mind that using dark chocolate will alter the sweetness, so you may want to adjust the sugar in the filling slightly to find your perfect balance. After pouring on the ganache, allow the bars to chill thoroughly; this helps the ganache set properly, making them easier to slice.

Ingredients

For the crust

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
½ cup sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the cheesecake filling

16 oz cream cheese, softened
¾ cup sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup fresh strawberries, diced

For the chocolate ganache

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
½ cup heavy cream

Instructions

Prepare the crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, cocoa powder, sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes.

Make the cheesecake filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add in eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and chopped strawberries. Pour this mixture over the baked crust.

Bake the cheesecake

Bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the cheesecake is just set. Remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature.

Prepare the chocolate ganache

In a saucepan over medium heat, bring the heavy cream to a simmer. Remove from heat and stir in the chocolate chips until melted and smooth. Pour this ganache over the cooled cheesecake.

Chill and serve

Chill the bars in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, before slicing into squares and serving.

Pro Tips

For a professional touch, add some whipped cream and fresh strawberries on top before serving.

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the great benefits of Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars is their make-ahead potential. You can prepare the crust and cheesecake filling a day in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen and develop overnight. After assembling the bars, simply chill them in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve. This not only saves time on the day you're serving but also enhances the texture, giving the bars a firmer, more sliceable consistency.

If you're preparing for a gathering, consider slicing the bars into individual pieces and arranging them on a platter for an eye-catching presentation. They can easily be made a day or two in advance, allowing you to focus on other dishes for your event.

Storage and Freezing

These cheesecake bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days, making them a great option for those who enjoy a sweet treat throughout the week. Use an airtight container to keep them fresh, and layer parchment paper between slices to prevent sticking. If you find yourself with leftovers (although it’s hard to imagine!), they can also be frozen for longer storage. Wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They will last in the freezer for about three months.

To thaw frozen bars, place them in the refrigerator overnight. This slow thaw helps maintain their texture. If you're in a hurry, you can leave them at room temperature for about 30-60 minutes, but avoid using the microwave as it could change their creamy structure.

Serving Suggestions

For a beautiful presentation, consider topping each bar with a fresh strawberry or a drizzle of extra chocolate ganache just before serving. A light dusting of cocoa powder or powdered sugar can also add visual appeal. If desired, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream to introduce a cool contrast against the rich cheesecake. This simple addition can turn a humble bar into a restaurant-quality dessert.

You can also customize these bars by experimenting with different fruit toppings. Sliced bananas or raspberries could offer a refreshing change, while a sprinkle of sea salt over the ganache adds a delightful touch of contrast that complements the sweetness beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs for the crust.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can use a dairy-free cream cheese if you want a non-dairy option.