These Strawberry Cheesecake Brownie Bars combine three favorite desserts into one irresistible treat: rich fudgy brownies, creamy cheesecake, and sweet strawberries. They are perfect for parties, holidays, bake sales, or anytime you want a dessert that looks bakery-made but is easy to prepare at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These bars have a perfect balance of rich chocolate, creamy cheesecake, and fruity strawberry flavor. They look impressive, slice beautifully, and taste even better the next day, making them ideal for make-ahead desserts.
Ingredients
For the brownie layer
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
For the cheesecake layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the strawberry swirl
- ¾ cup chopped fresh strawberries
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
For topping (optional)
- Melted chocolate drizzle
- Fresh strawberry halves
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Prepare the strawberry swirl
In a small saucepan, combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for 5–7 minutes, stirring until strawberries soften and release juice. Lightly mash and set aside to cool.
Step 2: Make the brownie batter
In a mixing bowl, whisk melted butter and sugar until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla extract and mix well. Stir in cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder until just combined.
Step 3: Prepare the cheesecake layer
In another bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add egg and vanilla extract and mix until creamy and lump-free.
Step 4: Assemble the layers
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Spread brownie batter evenly in the pan. Gently spread cheesecake mixture over the brownie layer. Spoon strawberry mixture on top and swirl lightly with a knife.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 35–40 minutes until edges are set and center is slightly firm. Avoid overbaking to keep the brownies fudgy.
Step 6: Cool and slice
Allow bars to cool completely in the pan, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour before slicing for clean layers.
Variations
- Use raspberry or cherry instead of strawberry
- Add chocolate chips to the brownie layer
- Swirl in strawberry jam instead of fresh strawberries
- Use a boxed brownie mix for a shortcut
- Add white chocolate drizzle on top
Cooking Notes
- Cream cheese must be fully softened to avoid lumps
- Let the strawberry mixture cool before swirling
- Do not over-swirl or layers will blend too much
- Refrigeration helps bars firm up and slice cleanly
- Use parchment paper for easy removal
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled or slightly room temperature
- Top with whipped cream before serving
- Add extra fresh strawberries on the plate
- Pair with coffee or iced latte
- Perfect for dessert tables and potlucks
Tips
- Use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts
- Store bars covered to prevent drying
- Bars taste richer after resting overnight
- Double recipe for a 9×13-inch pan
- Add cocoa powder dusting for presentation
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Chill Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
Nutritional Information (Approx.)
- Calories: 280 per bar
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 14g
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, thaw and drain them well before cooking.
Do these bars need refrigeration?
Yes, store in the refrigerator due to the cheesecake layer.
Can I freeze strawberry cheesecake brownie bars?
Yes, freeze slices individually for up to 2 months.
Conclusion
Strawberry Cheesecake Brownie Bars are rich, creamy, and full of flavor with beautiful layers that make them stand out on any dessert table. If you love chocolate and cheesecake together, this recipe is a must-try.