Decadent Strawberry Rhubarb Cheesecake Bars You Can’t Resist

Introduction

Hey there! I’m Jenny, your go-to food enthusiast from New Jersey. Today, I’m super excited to share a delightful recipe that will become your new favorite: strawberry rhubarb cheesecake bars. These bars are the perfect blend of fresh strawberries and tangy rhubarb, all wrapped up in a creamy cheesecake layer. Seriously, you can’t resist these!

Cooking is one of my favorite ways to bond with my family, especially when my 6-year-old son joins me in the kitchen. We turn cooking into a fun adventure, and I can’t wait for you to experience the joy of making these cheesecake bars together!

Ingredients

Before we dive into the magic of baking, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 2 cups rhubarb, chopped
• 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
• 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Timing

Let’s talk about timing! This recipe is straightforward and won’t take much of your day. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s get our hands dirty! Follow these steps to create your scrumptious strawberry rhubarb cheesecake bars:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for even baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter. Stir until all the crumbs are well coated. Press this mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish to form a crust.

Step 3: Cook the Fruit

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the sliced strawberries, chopped rhubarb, and ½ cup of sugar. Cook until the fruit softens, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the remaining ½ cup of sugar until smooth. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract and salt until fully combined.

Step 5: Assemble the Bars

Pour half of the cheesecake filling over the crust. Layer the cooked fruit mixture on top, followed by the remaining cheesecake filling. Use a knife to swirl the fruit into the cheesecake for a marbled effect.

Step 6: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Let it cool at room temperature and then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into bars.

Nutritional Information

Curious about the nutrition? Here’s a rough estimate per serving (based on 12 servings):

• Calories: 220
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Protein: 4g
• Sugar: 15g

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking to lighten this recipe up, here are some easy swaps:

• Use whole wheat graham cracker crumbs for the crust.
• Substitute low-fat cream cheese for regular cream cheese.
• Cut down on sugar by using a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit.

Serving Suggestions

These cheesecake bars are delicious on their own, but here are a few serving ideas to elevate your experience:

• Top with fresh whipped cream and a slice of strawberry.
• Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Drizzle with a berry compote for an extra burst of flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best cooks make mistakes! Here are a few tips to ensure your bars come out perfectly:

• Don’t skip the chilling time! It helps set the bars.
• Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth filling.
• Be careful not to overbake; they should be slightly jiggly in the center.

Storage Tips

Want to save some for later? Here’s how to store your strawberry rhubarb cheesecake bars:

• Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• For longer storage, freeze them for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly!

Conclusion

And there you have it! Decadent strawberry rhubarb cheesecake bars that are sure to impress family and friends. The combination of sweet strawberries and tangy rhubarb, paired with creamy cheesecake, is an absolute delight!

Cooking is about creating memories, and I hope you enjoy making these bars as much as I do with my family. Happy baking!

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FAQs

Can I use frozen rhubarb and strawberries?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before using them in the recipe.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

You can substitute the cream cheese with a vegan alternative and use flax eggs instead of regular eggs!

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The edges should be set, and the center will still have a slight jiggle. It will firm up as it cools!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about these strawberry rhubarb cheesecake bars as I am! They’re perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a picnic, or just a sweet treat for yourself. Remember, the best moments in life are often found in the kitchen. So, roll up your sleeves and get baking!