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Delicious Balsamic Roasted Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

balsamic roasted strawberry cheesecake bars - featured image

These cheesecake bars combine tangy balsamic roasted strawberries with a creamy cheesecake filling and a buttery graham cracker crust for a quick, easy, and sophisticated dessert.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 full sheets)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for crust)
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 2/3 cup granulated sugar (for filling)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for strawberries)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch pan or line with parchment paper with an overhang.
  2. In a medium bowl, toss strawberries with balsamic vinegar, 1/4 cup sugar, and lemon juice. Spread on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes until soft and glossy. Let cool slightly.
  3. In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Press evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes until set and fragrant. Let cool slightly.
  4. Using a mixer, beat cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add 2/3 cup sugar and beat until combined. Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each. Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream until just combined.
  5. Pour half of the cheesecake filling over the crust and smooth the surface. Spoon half of the roasted strawberries evenly over the filling, pressing gently. Pour remaining cheesecake batter on top and spread evenly. Scatter remaining roasted strawberries on top, pressing lightly.
  6. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 40–45 minutes until edges are set but center jiggles slightly. Turn off oven, crack door, and let cool inside for 30 minutes.
  7. Remove from oven and cool completely at room temperature. Refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight.
  8. Use parchment overhang to lift bars from pan. Cut into 12 squares with a sharp knife, wiping blade between cuts. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Soften cream cheese fully before mixing to avoid lumps. Roast strawberries for 20-25 minutes to develop flavor without mushiness. Avoid overmixing cheesecake batter to prevent cracks. Cool bars gradually in oven with door ajar to avoid cracks. Chill bars overnight for best texture and flavor. Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean slices. Drain excess juice from strawberries if too watery to avoid soggy top.

Nutrition

Keywords: balsamic, roasted strawberries, cheesecake bars, easy dessert, homemade, quick dessert, creamy cheesecake, graham cracker crust