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Easy No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Flag Bars

no bake strawberry cheesecake bars - featured image

A quick and easy no-bake dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake layer, and fresh strawberry topping, perfect for summer parties and patriotic celebrations.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 1012 full sheets, finely crushed)
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 16 ounces (450g) cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Crush the graham crackers finely using a food processor or by placing them in a zip-top bag and rolling with a rolling pin.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 2 tablespoons granulated sugar. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
  3. Transfer the crust mixture into a 9×13 inch pan. Press firmly and evenly into the bottom of the pan using the bottom of a measuring cup or your fingers. Refrigerate to chill while preparing the filling.
  4. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
  5. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the cream cheese and beat until fully combined.
  6. In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, about 3-5 minutes on medium speed.
  7. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using slow, sweeping motions to keep it light and airy.
  8. Spread the cheesecake layer evenly over the chilled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
  9. In a small bowl, toss the sliced strawberries with 2 tablespoons granulated sugar and fresh lemon juice. Let sit for about 10 minutes to macerate.
  10. Spoon the strawberry mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer, spreading gently to cover the surface.
  11. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until firm.
  12. Slice into 12-16 squares and serve chilled. For clean cuts, wipe your knife with a warm, damp cloth between slices.

Notes

Use room temperature cream cheese for smooth texture. Chill mixing bowl and beaters for faster whipping of cream. Macerate strawberries to enhance flavor and reduce excess liquid. Press crust firmly to prevent crumbling. Use a sharp knife wiped between cuts for clean slices. Overnight chilling is best for firm bars. Frozen strawberries can be used if thawed and drained well.

Nutrition

Keywords: no-bake, strawberry cheesecake, flag bars, summer dessert, easy dessert, patriotic dessert, no oven dessert, cheesecake bars