Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

Name: Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 1 cup graham cracker crumbs; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/4 cup sugar; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped; 1/2 cup melted chocolate; Fresh strawberries for garnish; Chocolate shavings

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars because they combine the richness of chocolate with the freshness of strawberries. Every bite is a delightful balance of creamy cheesecake and chocolatey goodness, which is perfect for impressing guests or for a sweet treat after dinner. Making these bars is surprisingly simple, and I love how they can be prepared ahead of time, making them a convenient dessert for any occasion. Trust me, these bars will not only satisfy your cravings but also leave a lasting impression.

Created by

Arielle Baxter

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:16:10.700Z

Creating these Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars was a fun experiment. I recently tried incorporating fresh strawberries into a classic cheesecake mix, and the result was the perfect blend of flavors. The strawberries bring a refreshing contrast to rich chocolate, which was a delightful surprise for my taste buds.

During the process, I discovered that using a double boiler for melting chocolate ensures a smooth texture without burning. It’s a small step that makes a big difference, and I recommend it for achieving that luxurious mouthfeel in every bite!

        Why You'll Love These Bars
        Decadent chocolate flavor balanced with fresh strawberry notes
Creamy cheesecake texture that’s rich yet light
Great for sharing at parties or enjoying on a cozy night in

      

Creating the Perfect Crust

The chocolate graham cracker crust is essential for balancing the flavors of the cheesecake and strawberries. To achieve the ideal texture, ensure that the melted butter is evenly mixed with the crumbs and cocoa powder. Press the mixture firmly into the pan, using the bottom of a measuring cup or glass to create a smooth, even surface. If you prefer a thicker crust, you can increase the graham cracker crumbs to 1 1/4 cups but be cautious about the ratio of butter to maintain the proper consistency.

Baking the crust enhances its flavor and texture, creating a crispy base that holds up well against the creamy cheesecake filling. Be sure to watch it closely during the 10-minute bake time; it should look slightly darkened and firm to the touch. Allowing it to cool completely before pouring the cheesecake mixture on top is crucial; otherwise, the filling could further melt the crust and lead to a soggy bottom.

Mastering the Cheesecake Filling

The cream cheese filling is the heart of these bars, and proper mixing is key. Beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until glossy and smooth, taking care not to overmix. Incorporating the eggs one at a time helps to maintain a light texture while ensuring there are no lumps in the filling. Overmixing after the eggs are added can introduce air pockets, which may lead to cracks as the cheesecake bakes. Aim for a silky consistency before adding the melted chocolate and strawberries.

When adding strawberries, make sure they are fresh and chopped into small pieces. This will not only ensure even distribution throughout the filling but also prevent excess moisture, which could lead to a watery dessert. Depending on the ripeness, you might want to adjust the sugar slightly; if the strawberries are particularly sweet, cut back by a tablespoon or so to ensure the cheesecake doesn’t become overly sweet.

Ingredients

Crust

1 cup graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup sugar

Cheesecake Filling

16 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
1/2 cup melted chocolate

For Topping

Fresh strawberries for garnish
Chocolate shavings

Instructions

Directions

Prepare the Crust

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, cocoa powder, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9x9 inch pan and bake for 10 minutes. Let it cool.

Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and melted chocolate.

Finally, gently fold in the chopped strawberries.

Bake the Cheesecake

Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust and spread evenly. Bake for 30 minutes or until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly. Allow to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for 2 hours.

Serve

Once chilled, remove from the pan and cut into bars. Garnish with fresh strawberries and chocolate shavings if desired.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, you can drizzle some caramel sauce over the top before serving. Also, don’t skip the chilling time
it helps to set the cheesecake properly and enhances the overall flavor.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars can be made a day in advance, making them perfect for gatherings. Once they are thoroughly chilled, cover the pan with plastic wrap or transfer them to an airtight container to maintain freshness. They will last in the refrigerator for up to a week, but I recommend enjoying them within three days to experience the best texture and flavor.

If you wish to store them for longer, consider freezing the bars. After cutting them into portions, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. To enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These cheesecake bars taste delightful as they are, but you can elevate them further by pairing them with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a dollop of whipped cream on each serving. For added texture, consider topping them with crushed nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt to contrast the sweetness. Fresh mint leaves can also add a lovely touch, enhancing the presentation and flavor profile.

You can experiment with different berries aside from strawberries. Raspberries and blueberries also pair beautifully with chocolate, providing a different flavor experience. If you want to make a chocolate version without strawberries, simply omit the fruit and add an extra half cup of melted chocolate for a rich, desolate treat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can, but be sure to thaw and drain them first to prevent excess moisture in the cheesecake.

→ How should I store these cheesecake bars?

Keep them covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days for the best taste and texture.

→ Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! They are perfect for making ahead. Just refrigerate them and serve when ready.

→ What can I substitute for graham crackers?

You can use crushed cookies like Oreo or digestive biscuits for a different flavor profile.