Strawberry Cream Cheese Crumb Bars

There’s something irresistibly delightful about the combination of sweet, fresh strawberries with smooth, luscious cream cheese, all nestled in a buttery crumb crust. These Strawberry Cream Cheese Crumb Bars capture that perfect harmony in every bite. Whether you’re looking for an easy dessert for a family gathering, a sweet treat for afternoon tea, or a show-stopping addition to your brunch table, these bars deliver on flavor and texture. The crumbly oat topping adds a wonderful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling and juicy strawberry layers. Plus, they’re simple to make with straightforward ingredients you likely already have on hand.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Strawberry Cream Cheese Crumb Bars are a celebration of fresh flavors and comforting textures. The crust is a buttery blend of oats and flour, providing a rustic, wholesome base. The cream cheese layer is rich and tangy, perfectly balancing the natural sweetness of the strawberries. Using fresh strawberries enhances the overall brightness and freshness, making this dessert feel light yet indulgent. Another bonus? They’re easy to slice and serve, making them ideal for potlucks, picnics, or just a cozy night in.

The recipe is approachable for bakers of all skill levels and doesn’t require any fancy techniques or equipment. And if you love desserts like these, you might also enjoy trying the Butterfinger Cheesecake Bars for a different but equally decadent twist.

What You’ll Gather

• 1 cup all-purpose flour – forms the base of the crumb crust
• 1 cup rolled oats – adds texture and heartiness to the crumb topping
• 1/2 cup brown sugar – for natural sweetness and depth
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder – helps the crumb layer rise slightly
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted – binds and enriches the crumb mixture
• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened – creates the creamy filling
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar – sweetens the cream cheese layer
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – adds aromatic warmth
• 1 large egg – helps set the cream cheese layer
• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced – the star fruit, fresh and juicy
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch – thickens the strawberry filling
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice – brightens the strawberry flavor

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Baking pan (8×8 inches recommended) – perfect size for bars
• Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients
• Electric mixer or hand mixer – to beat the cream cheese layer smooth
• Measuring cups and spoons – for accuracy
• Spatula or wooden spoon – for mixing
• Knife and cutting board – to hull and slice strawberries
• Cooling rack – to cool bars evenly

Strawberry Cream Cheese Crumb Bars Made Stepwise

Step 1: Prepare the Crumb Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture is crumbly but holds together when pressed. Press about two-thirds of this mixture firmly into the bottom of your greased 8×8-inch baking pan to form the base crust. Bake for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden and set. Remove from oven and set aside.

Step 2: Mix the Cream Cheese Layer

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the granulated sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Add the egg and continue beating until fully incorporated. Spread this mixture evenly over the partially baked crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Step 3: Prepare the Strawberry Filling

In a separate bowl, toss the sliced strawberries with cornstarch and lemon juice. The cornstarch will help thicken the juices released during baking, and the lemon juice brightens the flavor. Spread the strawberries evenly over the cream cheese layer.

Step 4: Add the Crumb Topping

Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture evenly over the strawberry layer. Press lightly to help it adhere but don’t compact it too much.

Step 5: Bake and Cool

Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 30-35 minutes, or until the crumb topping is golden brown and the cream cheese layer is set. Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely on a cooling rack. For best results, refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing into bars. This helps the layers firm up and makes cutting easier.

Holiday-Friendly Variations

• Add a handful of chopped pistachios or almonds to the crumb topping for a festive crunch.
• Swap fresh strawberries with raspberries or mixed berries during winter months.
• Drizzle melted white chocolate over the cooled bars for extra indulgence.
• Incorporate a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or cardamom into the crumb mixture for a warm spice note.

Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them

• Watery filling: Toss strawberries in cornstarch and lemon juice before baking to prevent sogginess.
• Crumb topping falling off: Press the crumb topping lightly onto the strawberry layer before baking to help it stick.
• Crust too soft: Partially bake the crust before adding layers to ensure a sturdy base.
• Difficulty slicing bars: Chill the bars well after baking to firm up the layers and make cutting clean slices easier.

Prep Ahead & Store

You can prepare the crumb crust and cream cheese layers a day in advance and refrigerate before adding the strawberry topping and crumb layer. After assembling and baking, store these Strawberry Cream Cheese Crumb Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Common Questions

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Using frozen strawberries is possible but may release more water, making the bars soggy. If you do use frozen, thaw and drain excess liquid before mixing with cornstarch and lemon juice.

Is it necessary to bake the crust before adding the cream cheese layer?

Yes, prebaking the crust ensures it firms up and doesn’t become mushy once the wet layers are added. It helps maintain the structure of the bars.

Can I make these bars vegan or dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese alternative and use a vegan butter substitute. Keep in mind this may slightly alter the texture and taste.

How should I serve these bars for the best flavor?

Serve chilled or at room temperature. Pairing them with a dollop of whipped cream or alongside a Homemade Strawberry Shortcake can make for a beautifully complementary dessert spread.

Similar Recipes

• Butterfinger Cheesecake Bars – for those who love a nutty, chocolatey twist
• Apple Crumble Cheesecake Bars – a cozy option with fall flavors
• Homemade Strawberry Shortcake – a classic strawberry dessert to enjoy alongside

Bring It to the Table

These Strawberry Cream Cheese Crumb Bars are perfect for sharing. Their vibrant color and inviting aroma will catch everyone’s attention the moment you bring them out. Whether it’s a casual weekend treat or part of a festive dessert table, they pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. Cut into generous squares and watch as friends and family reach for seconds. The balance of creamy, sweet, and crumbly textures makes these bars a crowd-pleaser every time.

If you’re looking to add a little something special to your next gathering or simply want to indulge in a delightful homemade dessert, these bars are a fantastic choice. Their simplicity and fresh flavors make them a staple you’ll want to return to season after season. Happy baking!

Share on Pinterest