There’s something irresistible about the combination of rich, velvety cheesecake and the bright, juicy sweetness of strawberries. When presented in square form, this classic dessert becomes incredibly versatile—easy to serve, easy to transport, and perfect for sharing. Strawberry Cheesecake Squares bring together a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy cheesecake center, and a luscious strawberry topping in every bite. Whether you’re preparing for a summer picnic, a holiday party, or just a midweek treat, this dessert is a guaranteed hit.
Why You’ll Love Strawberry Cheesecake Squares
Traditional cheesecakes are luxurious but often time-consuming and difficult to slice neatly for large gatherings. These squares offer the same indulgence in a more practical and approachable format. They’re:
- Easy to Make: No water bath needed—just bake, chill, and slice.
- Perfectly Portable: Cut into tidy squares for serving at potlucks, picnics, or parties.
- Visually Stunning: The vibrant red of the strawberries against the pale cheesecake makes for an eye-catching dessert tray.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons sugar
For the cheesecake filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
For the strawberry topping:
- 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, diced
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- ½ teaspoon lemon juice
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep time: 25 minutes
- Bake time: 30 minutes
- Cooling + chilling time: 4 hours minimum (best overnight)
- Total time: About 5 hours (including chilling)
- Yield: 16 squares
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the crust
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
2. Make the cheesecake filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract and sour cream until fully incorporated.
Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust and smooth the top.
3. Bake the cheesecake
Bake for 30 minutes or until the center is set and the edges are slightly puffed. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake rest inside for 5–10 minutes. Then remove and cool completely at room temperature. Once cool, refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight).
4. Prepare the strawberry topping
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine diced strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, water, and lemon juice. Stir frequently until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy (about 5–7 minutes). Let cool completely before spreading over the chilled cheesecake.
5. Assemble and serve
Once the cheesecake is chilled, spread the cooled strawberry topping evenly over the top. Cut into 16 squares using a sharp knife wiped clean between each slice for neat edges.
Calorie Information (Per Square)
Each serving (1 square, assuming 16 per batch) contains approximately:
- Calories: 260
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Sugar: 18g
- Protein: 4g
Using low-fat cream cheese, sugar substitutes, or light sour cream can reduce calorie content while maintaining flavor.
Presentation Tips
Strawberry Cheesecake Squares are already gorgeous, but these tips can help elevate their appeal:
- Garnish with Style: Add a small dollop of whipped cream and a halved strawberry on each square before serving.
- Use a Serrated Knife: For cleaner edges, warm the knife under hot water, dry it, and slice with steady pressure.
- Serve on a Platter: Arrange on a white or glass platter to make the vibrant red topping pop.
These squares look elegant enough for a baby shower or brunch table and casual enough for an after-dinner treat.
Variations to Try
- Mixed Berry Version: Replace strawberries with a mix of blueberries and raspberries for a more colorful topping.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Add a drizzle of melted dark chocolate over the top for a gourmet touch.
- No-Bake Alternative: Use a no-bake cheesecake filling with gelatin for a summer-friendly, oven-free version.
When to Enjoy
These cheesecake squares are a favorite year-round but especially shine during spring and summer when strawberries are at their peak. They make the perfect ending to a grilled dinner, a sweet birthday treat, or a make-ahead dessert for entertaining guests.
A Sweet, Sliceable Classic
Strawberry Cheesecake Squares deliver all the creamy richness of a full cheesecake with half the effort—and all the charm. They’re the kind of dessert people remember: sweet but balanced, simple but beautiful, and indulgent without being over the top.
With fresh fruit, smooth cheesecake, and a buttery crust in every bite, they’re sure to become a new favorite in your dessert rotation. So roll up your sleeves, gather a few ingredients, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a tray of strawberry bliss.