No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Bars (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Crust

01 - 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (approximately 12 graham crackers)
02 - ⅓ cup granulated sugar
03 - ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

→ Cheesecake Filling

04 - 2 cups cream cheese, softened
05 - 1 cup powdered sugar
06 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
07 - 2 cups heavy cream

→ Strawberry Topping

08 - 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
09 - ¼ cup granulated sugar
10 - 1 tablespoon lemon juice

# Instructions:

01 - Combine the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar in a medium bowl. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch square baking dish or 9-inch round pan, ensuring it's tightly packed. Refrigerate the crust while preparing the filling.
02 - Beat the softened cream cheese in a large mixing bowl with an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until well combined. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Carefully fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until smooth and fully incorporated. Spread the filling evenly over the chilled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
03 - In a small saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries release their juices and the mixture becomes syrupy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and cool to room temperature. Optionally, mash the mixture lightly with a fork or blend for a smoother consistency.
04 - Spread the cooled strawberry topping evenly over the cheesecake layer. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow the layers to set.
05 - Cut the bars into squares or rectangles before serving. Enjoy the creamy and refreshing flavor of the no-bake cheesecake bars.