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Perfect Red White and Blue Cheesecake Bars

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These cheesecake bars combine a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and fresh strawberries and blueberries for a festive and crowd-pleasing patriotic dessert.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 full sheets)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (room temperature)
  • 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
  • ⅔ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1 cup fresh blueberries
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×9-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang to lift the bars out later.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and cinnamon. Pour in melted butter and stir until the mixture looks like wet sand.
  3. Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan using the bottom of a glass or measuring cup to firmly pack it down. Bake for 10 minutes to set. Let it cool slightly.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Scrape the sides to avoid lumps.
  5. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract and sour cream until just combined. Do not overmix.
  6. Pour the cheesecake batter over the warm crust, spreading gently with a spatula. Tap the pan lightly on the counter to release any air bubbles.
  7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly when you shake the pan.
  8. Cool to room temperature on a wire rack. Then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
  9. Toss sliced strawberries and blueberries with lemon juice in a bowl. Just before serving, spoon the berries evenly over the chilled cheesecake.
  10. Optional: Dust with powdered sugar for a festive finish.

Notes

Softening cream cheese properly is key to avoid lumps. Do not overmix after adding eggs to prevent cracks. Use parchment paper for easy removal. Chill bars thoroughly for firm slices. Toss berries with lemon juice just before serving to keep them fresh. Use a sharp knife warmed with hot water for clean cuts.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesecake bars, patriotic dessert, red white and blue dessert, Fourth of July dessert, easy cheesecake bars, berry cheesecake

Find it online: https://shimmersnack.com/perfect-red-white-and-blue-cheesecake-bars-recipe-for-easy-patriotic-desserts/