Best Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Are you ready to indulge in the creamy, irresistible goodness of cheesecake, but with an easy twist? These Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars are the perfect solution for anyone craving a smooth and decadent dessert without the hassle of a traditional cheesecake. With a rich graham cracker crust and a creamy Philadelphia cream cheese filling, these bars are an ideal treat for any occasion.

Whether you’re planning a dinner party, looking for a sweet snack, or simply want to impress your family with a homemade dessert, these cheesecake bars are sure to hit the spot. Plus, with a luscious strawberry compote topping and a delicate white chocolate drizzle, they’re as visually stunning as they are delicious. Best of all, this recipe is simple enough to make without breaking a sweat perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers alike!

Get ready to wow your taste buds with the ultimate copycat Philadelphia strawberry cheesecake experience right in your own kitchen. Ready to get started? Let’s jump right into this simple and enjoyable recipe!

1. Why You’ll Love These Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars

If you’ve ever dreamed of enjoying a slice of creamy, melt-in-your-mouth cheesecake without the fuss, these Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars are exactly what you need! They’re not only incredibly easy to make, but they also capture the rich, tangy flavor of a classic Philadelphia strawberry cheesecake in every bite.

Here’s why you’ll be coming back for more:

• Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: With just a handful of ingredients like Philadelphia cream cheese, graham cracker crumbs, and fresh strawberries, you can whip up these cheesecake bars in no time. No complicated steps, just pure deliciousness!
  
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a party, serving up a family dinner, or treating yourself to a sweet snack, these cheesecake bars are incredibly versatile. They’re great for holidays, potlucks, or even a simple evening treat.
  
• A Dessert Everyone Will Love: The creamy, smooth cheesecake filling combined with the sweet and tangy strawberry topping makes for a flavor combo that pleases every palate. And with a graham cracker crust that’s both crunchy and buttery, each bite is the perfect balance of textures.
  
• Copycat Feel: Love Philadelphia strawberry cheesecake but want to make it at home? This copycat recipe delivers all the flavor without the need for a springform pan. It’s like having the best of both worlds cheesecake bars made from scratch with all the richness you expect!
  
• No-Bake Option: If you’re short on time or prefer not to turn on the oven, don’t worry! These cheesecake bars can be made ahead and chilled, giving you a make-ahead dessert that’s perfect for any busy weeknight or last-minute gathering.
  

2. Ingredients for Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars

Before we get started with making these Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need. Don’t worry these are all simple, easy-to-find items, and they’ll come together to create the perfect cheesecake bars!

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs: This will form the crunchy base of your cheesecake bars, giving them that signature flavor. You can crush whole graham crackers or buy pre-made crumbs to save time.
  
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Butter is key for binding the graham cracker crumbs together and adding richness. Make sure it’s melted, so it mixes evenly with the crumbs.
  

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened: You’ll need Philadelphia cream cheese for that smooth, creamy texture. Make sure it’s softened so it mixes easily without lumps.
  
• 1/2 cup sugar: This adds the perfect amount of sweetness to balance the tanginess of the cream cheese.
  
• 1/4 cup sour cream: A little bit of sour cream enhances the creaminess and adds a slight tang to the cheesecake filling.
  
• 2 tsp vanilla extract: This adds a warm, aromatic flavor that pairs perfectly with the cheesecake filling.
  
• 2 eggs, room temperature: Eggs help to set the filling and give it that creamy texture. Be sure to take them out ahead of time so they mix better with the other ingredients.
  

For the Strawberry Compote:

• 1 3/4 cups fresh strawberries, chopped: Fresh strawberries bring a natural sweetness and vibrant color to the compote, which makes these cheesecake bars extra special.
  
• 5 Tbsp sugar: The sugar helps to sweeten the strawberries and create a syrupy consistency for the compote.
  
• 3 Tbsp water: This will help dissolve the sugar and create a smooth sauce.
  
• 1/2 Tbsp lemon juice: A touch of lemon juice brightens the flavor of the strawberries and enhances their natural sweetness.
  
• 2 tsp cornstarch: This will thicken the compote and give it the perfect consistency to sit on top of the cheesecake bars without running.
  

For the White Chocolate Drizzle:

• 1/4 cup white chocolate: The white chocolate drizzle adds a decadent, sweet finishing touch to the bars. It complements the strawberry cheesecake flavor perfectly.
  

These ingredients come together to create the ultimate Philadelphia cheesecake bar experience. Don’t feel intimidated by the list most of the items are pantry staples, and with just a few simple steps, you’ll have a dessert everyone will adore. Ready to start? Let’s move on to the next step!

3. Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cheesecake Bars

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s walk through the process of making these irresistible Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars! Don’t worry if it feels like a lot of steps each one is easy and will lead you to a perfect batch of creamy cheesecake goodness. Let’s dive right in!

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

• Combine graham cracker crumbs and butter: In a medium-sized bowl, stir together the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until everything is well coated. The mixture should resemble wet sand.
  
• Press into the pan: Transfer the crumb mixture into a 9×9 baking pan lined with parchment paper for easy removal later. Use a measuring cup or the back of a spoon to press the crumbs firmly and evenly into the bottom. This will create the crunchy base for your cheesecake bars.
  

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

• Beat the cream cheese: In a stand mixer or using an electric mixer, beat the Philadelphia cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. This will ensure there are no lumps in your filling, giving you that smooth, velvety texture we love.
  
• Add the sugar, sour cream, and vanilla: Next, add the sugar, sour cream, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese. Mix everything until it’s completely smooth and well combined.
  
• Incorporate the eggs: Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well between each addition. This step ensures the eggs are fully incorporated into the mixture, creating a rich and creamy cheesecake filling.
  

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake Bars

• Pour the filling into the pan: Once your cheesecake filling is smooth and creamy, pour it over the prepared graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
  
• Bake: Place the pan in a preheated 350°F oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is slightly jiggly. The cheesecake will firm up as it cools, so don’t worry if it’s not completely set right away.
  
• Cool completely: Let the cheesecake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to the fridge. Allow it to chill for at least 3 hours, or overnight if you can. This is crucial for getting the right texture and flavor.
  

Step 4: Make the Strawberry Compote

• Cook the strawberries:In a small saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries, sugar, water, and lemon juice. Simmer the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries soften and the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. This should take about 10 minutes.
  
• Thicken with cornstarch: To achieve the perfect compote consistency, whisk the cornstarch into a little cold water and add it to the strawberry mixture. Continue to cook for another minute, then remove from heat. Let the compote cool completely before adding it to the bars.
  

Step 5: Assemble the Cheesecake Bars

• Slice the cheesecake: Once your cheesecake has cooled and set, remove it from the pan. If the edges are a little brown, feel free to trim them for a cleaner look.
  
• Carve out a strip for the compote: Using a spoon, carve a shallow strip along the center of each cheesecake bar, making room for the strawberry compote to sit on top. Be careful not to carve too deep just enough to create a little well for the filling.
  
• Spoon the compote: Spoon a generous amount of the strawberry compote into the center of each bar, letting it settle nicely in the carved space.
  

Step 6: Add the White Chocolate Drizzle

• Melt the white chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring between each round, until completely smooth.
  
• Drizzle the white chocolate: Once melted, drizzle the white chocolate over each cheesecake bar using a spoon or a piping bag for a more precise drizzle. The creamy white chocolate will add a sweet finish to these already delicious bars.
  

And there you have it! These Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars are now ready to be enjoyed. The strawberry topping, creamy cheesecake filling, and white chocolate drizzle all come together for the perfect combination of flavors and textures. Keep these chilled until you’re ready to serve trust me, they’ll be the star of the show!

4. Pro Tips and Variations for Perfect Cheesecake Bars

Ready to make these Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars your own? Whether you’re looking to customize the recipe or simply make the process even easier, I’ve got some pro tips and fun variations to elevate your dessert game. Let’s dive in!

Pro Tips for Perfect Cheesecake Bars

• Use room temperature ingredients: For the smoothest, creamiest filling, make sure your Philadelphia cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before you begin. Cold ingredients can create lumps in your cheesecake filling, which is something we definitely want to avoid!
  
• Don’t overmix the eggs: When adding the eggs to the filling, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to cracks in the cheesecake after baking. A smooth, gentle mix is all you need for that perfect texture.
  
• Bake at the right temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated to 350°F. A sudden temperature change can affect the texture, so avoid opening the oven door too early in the baking process. The cheesecake should have a slight jiggle in the center when done it will continue to set as it cools.
  
• Cool and chill properly: Patience is key! After baking, let the cheesecake bars cool to room temperature before transferring them to the fridge. Chilling them for at least 3 hours (overnight if possible) helps the flavors develop and allows the bars to set perfectly.
  

Fun Variations to Try

• Swap the strawberry topping: While these bars are delicious with a strawberry compote, feel free to get creative with your favorite fruits. Blueberries, raspberries, or even a mix of berries can add a fresh twist to this recipe and if you’re curious about the many health perks they offer, check out these reasons to eat berries. For a tropical flair, try using mango or pineapple!
  
• Make them chocolatey: If you love chocolate, try adding a chocolate crust instead of the graham cracker base. Simply substitute the graham crackers with crushed chocolate cookies. You could also swirl some melted chocolate into the cheesecake filling for a marbled effect.
  
• Try a no-bake version: If you’re short on time or want a simpler method, you can turn this into a no-bake dessert! After preparing the crust, simply refrigerate the cheesecake filling (without baking) and let it set in the fridge for a few hours. The texture will be a bit lighter but still just as creamy and delicious.
  
• Go gluten-free: For a gluten-free version, swap the graham cracker crumbs for gluten-free crumbs or even crushed almonds for the crust. Just make sure to check the labels of all your ingredients to ensure they’re certified gluten-free.
  
• Add a crunch: For a bit of texture, try adding crushed nuts like walnuts, pecans, or almonds on top of the compote or mixed into the crust.

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

• Prep ahead: You can make the cheesecake bars up to 2 days in advance. Once they’re fully chilled, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. This helps the flavors combine and intensify even more!
  
• Freeze for longer storage: If you want to make a big batch and store some for later, these cheesecake bars freeze beautifully! Just slice them into individual bars, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, and freeze for about 2 hours. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container and store for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight.

These tips and variations are designed to give you the flexibility to customize the recipe based on your preferences or dietary needs. Whether you stick with the classic strawberry cheesecake bars or try a fun twist, you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create a dessert that’s both delicious and visually impressive. Happy baking!

5. Serving Ideas for Your Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars

Now that your Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars are ready, it’s time to think about how to serve them! This is where the fun really begins because there are so many ways to elevate these bars and make them even more irresistible. Whether you’re preparing for a dinner party, a casual family gathering, or simply indulging in a treat, here are some serving suggestions that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Serve with a Dollop of Whipped Cream

A simple, yet elegant topping for these cheesecake bars is a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The lightness of the whipped cream balances the richness of the Philadelphia cheesecake, creating the perfect bite. For extra flair, you can add a light dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.

Pair with Fresh Berries

Fresh, juicy strawberries are the natural choice, especially when combined with the strawberry compote in the recipe. If you love strawberry desserts, you’ll also enjoy my Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Recipe, which takes the flavor to the next level with a crunchy topping. But don’t stop there! Try pairing your cheesecake bars with other berries like blueberries, raspberries, or even blackberries for a vibrant, refreshing contrast to the creamy filling.

Top with Chocolate Ganache or Drizzle

If you’re a chocolate lover, drizzle a bit of melted white chocolate or chocolate ganache over the top of each bar for a sweet, decadent finish. The combination of white chocolate drizzle and the creamy Philadelphia cheesecake is a match made in dessert heaven.

Chill for an Extra Refreshing Treat

For the ultimate cool treat, try chilling these bars even longer overnight, if possible. The longer they sit in the fridge, the more the flavors meld together, making each bite more indulgent. Chilled cheesecake bars are a perfect summer dessert, but they’re delicious all year round!

Pair with a Cup of Coffee or Tea

These cheesecake bars aren’t just for dessert they make an excellent pairing with a hot drink. Serve them alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or your favorite tea. The rich flavors of the Philadelphia cheesecake will balance beautifully with the warmth of your drink, making for a cozy, comforting experience.

Cut into Bite-Sized Pieces for Easy Snacking

For a more casual setting or when you want to serve them at a party, consider cutting the bars into smaller, bite-sized pieces. These mini squares are perfect for sharing and make a delightful cheesecake snack bar for guests to grab and go. They’re easy to store and even easier to enjoy!

Serve with a Side of Ice Cream

For the ultimate indulgence, pair your cheesecake bars with a scoop of your favorite ice cream. Vanilla, strawberry, or even a rich chocolate flavor would complement the Philadelphia cheesecake perfectly. It’s the ultimate comfort dessert, and the combination of cold ice cream with a creamy, chilled bar is pure bliss.

Now that you have plenty of ideas to enhance your dessert, it’s time to enjoy your creation and share it with others!

6. Conclusion: Why These Cheesecake Bars Are a Must-Try

Congratulations! You’ve now mastered the art of making Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars a dessert that’s as delicious as it is easy to make. Whether you’ve followed the recipe exactly or added your own creative twists, these bars are sure to be a crowd-pleaser every time. The smooth, creamy Philadelphia cheesecake filling, paired with a buttery graham cracker crust and topped with a sweet strawberry compote, offers the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Why You’ll Make These Again and Again

These cheesecake bars are perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to fancy dinner parties. Not only are they easy to make, but the recipe is also highly versatile, so you can switch up the toppings or even try different fruit compotes. Plus, they’re ideal for make-ahead baking, giving you more time to enjoy the event rather than spending all your time in the kitchen.

A Sweet, Satisfying Treat

What makes these copycat Philadelphia strawberry cheesecake bars stand out is how satisfying they are. Each bite is a creamy, dreamy delight that will have everyone asking for the recipe. Whether you serve them chilled for a refreshing summer treat or alongside a cup of coffee in the winter, they’re a perfect way to indulge without the hassle of a traditional cheesecake.

Your New Go-To Dessert Recipe

So next time you’re craving something sweet or need a showstopper dessert, reach for this easy cheesecake bars recipe. Whether you stick with the classic strawberry topping or mix it up with a different fruit or chocolate drizzle, you can’t go wrong. Get ready to become the go-to dessert maker at every family gathering or event these cheesecake bars are sure to be a hit!

Now, go ahead and take a bite of your cheesecake snack bars and enjoy the sweet success of making a truly irresistible dessert. Happy baking!

Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars with Strawberry Compote

Cherish

 These Philadelphia cheesecake bars feature a creamy, rich filling with a buttery graham cracker crust, topped with a tangy strawberry compote and finished with a white chocolate drizzle. Perfect for any occasion, these easy-to-make cheesecake bars are a crowd-pleasing dessert everyone will love.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Resting Time 2 hours hrs

Total Time 3 hours hrs

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 10 servings

Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz cream cheese softened (Philadelphia cream cheese recommended)
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 eggs room temperature

For the Strawberry Compote:

• 1 3/4 cups fresh strawberries chopped
• 5 Tbsp sugar
• 3 Tbsp water
• 1/2 Tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tsp cornstarch

For the White Chocolate Drizzle:

• 1/4 cup white chocolate

Instructions

 

Prepare the Crust:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Line a 9×9-inch pan with parchment paper and lightly grease with non-stick spray.
• In a medium-sized bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Stir until fully mixed and the crumbs are coated.
• Press the mixture firmly into the prepared pan using the back of a spoon or measuring cup to form an even crust. Set aside.

Make the Cheesecake Filling:

• In a stand mixer or with an electric mixer, beat the cream cheese on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
• Add the sugar, sour cream, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
• Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing after each addition until just combined.
• Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust and use a spatula to smooth the top evenly.

Bake:

• Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center has a slight wobble.
• Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely at room temperature. Then transfer to the fridge and chill for at least 3 hours (overnight if possible).

Make the Strawberry Compote:

• In a small saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries, sugar, water, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes, until the strawberries break down and the mixture thickens.
• Whisk in the cornstarch mixed with a little water, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the compote thickens further. Remove from heat and let cool.

Assemble the Bars:

• Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, remove it from the pan and slice it into even bars. If the edges are a bit too brown, feel free to trim them off.
• Carve out a shallow strip in the center of each bar to make space for the strawberry compote.
• Spoon a generous amount of the strawberry compote into the center of each bar.

Drizzle with White Chocolate:

• Melt the white chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 30-second intervals and stirring in between until smooth.
• Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the top of each cheesecake bar for a sweet, finishing touch.

Serve:

• Allow the bars to set in the fridge for another hour before serving, ensuring the topping firms up.
• Serve chilled and enjoy!

Notes

Nutrition Information (per serving):

• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 80mg
• Sodium: 200mg
• Carbs: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 20g

Keyword Cheesecake Bars, philadelphia cheesecake bars, Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

7. Frequently Asked Questions About Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars

You’ve made your Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars, and everything is looking and tasting amazing, but you may have a few lingering questions. Don’t worry I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common questions about this recipe, along with tips and tricks to make sure everything turns out just right.