Golden Oreo Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are a delightful dessert featuring a buttery Golden Oreo crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and a luscious homemade strawberry sauce. Perfect for spring and summer gatherings, these bars combine the crunch of cookies with the freshness of strawberries, making them a crowd-pleaser.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 18 Golden Oreos
For the Strawberry Sauce:
- 1½ cups strawberries, diced
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon water
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon cornstarch
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ⅓ cup sour cream
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
For the Topping:
- 8 Golden Oreos, crushed
Directions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a food processor, pulse 18 Golden Oreos into fine crumbs.
- Add melted butter and pulse until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the crumb mixture firmly into an 8-inch baking pan lined with greased foil or parchment paper.
- Bake for 5 minutes, then remove and let cool on a wire rack.
- Prepare the Strawberry Sauce:
- In a saucepan, combine diced strawberries, 1 tablespoon sugar, and 1 tablespoon water.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 5-10 minutes until strawberries are soft, stirring occasionally.
- In a small bowl, mix lemon juice and cornstarch until smooth; add to the strawberry mixture.
- Continue to simmer until the sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat and blend until smooth; set aside to cool.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a food processor, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, ⅓ cup sugar, vanilla extract, egg, and flour.
- Pulse until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Assemble the Bars:
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading evenly.
- Gently pour the cooled strawberry sauce over the cheesecake layer.
- Bake:
- Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (163°C).
- Bake for 36 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set with a slight jiggle in the center.
- Add Topping and Chill:
- Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes.
- Sprinkle crushed Golden Oreos over the top, pressing gently into the cheesecake.
- Allow to cool completely at room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours before slicing into bars.
Nutrients (Per Serving)
- Calories: 354
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 216mg
- Potassium: 85mg
- Sugar: 23g
- Vitamin A: 540 IU
- Vitamin C: 0.4mg
- Calcium: 47mg
- Iron: 1mg
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
What Makes These Bars Unique?
Golden Oreo Strawberry Cheesecake Bars stand out for several reasons:
- Innovative Crust: Using Golden Oreos instead of a traditional graham cracker base adds an indulgent twist. The vanilla-flavored cookies create a rich foundation that complements the creamy filling.
- Homemade Strawberry Sauce: Unlike store-bought options, the homemade strawberry sauce is vibrant and bursting with authentic fruit flavor. The addition of lemon juice enhances the freshness, creating a well-balanced sweetness.
- Versatile Dessert: These bars are portable and easy to serve, making them perfect for parties, picnics, or potlucks. They’re also an excellent make-ahead option, as they taste even better after chilling.
Seasonal Appeal
Strawberries are synonymous with spring and summer, making this dessert a timely treat during those warmer months. Their bright red hue and juicy texture add a touch of elegance to the cheesecake bars, while their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the creamy filling. This recipe is a great way to showcase fresh, seasonal strawberries, though frozen ones can work in a pinch when fresh fruit isn’t available.
The Role of Golden Oreos
Golden Oreos are a surprising yet fitting choice for the crust and topping. Their delicate vanilla flavor enhances the richness of the cheesecake without overwhelming it. Crushing the cookies into fine crumbs ensures a uniform crust that holds up well under the creamy layers, while the additional crushed Oreos on top add a delightful crunch.
Layering for Perfection
The magic of these bars lies in their perfectly balanced layers:
- Golden Oreo Crust: The buttery, crumbly base provides a sturdy and flavorful foundation.
- Cheesecake Filling: Creamy and slightly tangy, the filling is smooth and indulgent without being overly sweet.
- Strawberry Sauce: This layer is a burst of fruity brightness, offering a stunning contrast in both flavor and color.
- Crushed Oreos: A final touch of texture and sweetness, these crumbs tie the dessert together beautifully.
Customization Ideas
Golden Oreo Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are versatile and can be adapted to suit different preferences:
- Fruit Variations: Swap strawberries for raspberries, blueberries, or mixed berries to create a different flavor profile.
- Chocolate Twist: Add a drizzle of white or dark chocolate over the top for an extra layer of decadence.
- Dietary Modifications: Use low-fat cream cheese and sour cream for a lighter version, or gluten-free cookies to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- No-Bake Version: Adapt the recipe by using a no-bake cheesecake filling for an even simpler preparation.
Serving Suggestions
Golden Oreo Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are best served chilled, making them a refreshing treat for warm-weather events. Slice them into neat squares for a polished presentation, or serve them with a dollop of whipped cream and a fresh strawberry garnish. Pair with iced tea, lemonade, or sparkling wine for a complete dessert experience.
Tips for Success
To ensure your Golden Oreo Strawberry Cheesecake Bars turn out perfectly, consider these helpful tips:
- Press the Crust Firmly: A tightly packed crust prevents crumbling and ensures a stable base for the layers.
- Allow Proper Cooling: Let the cheesecake bars cool to room temperature before refrigerating. This prevents condensation and ensures a smooth texture.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh, ripe strawberries for the sauce to achieve the best flavor.
- Cut with Precision: Use a sharp knife to slice the bars cleanly, wiping the blade between cuts for neat edges.
Why You’ll Love These Bars
Golden Oreo Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are a crowd-pleaser for several reasons:
- Ease of Preparation: Despite their impressive appearance, these bars are straightforward to make.
- Crowd Appeal: The combination of cookies, cheesecake, and strawberries caters to a wide range of tastes.
- Portion Control: Pre-cut bars make serving a breeze and allow for controlled portion sizes.
- Shelf Life: These bars can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator, making them a convenient dessert option.
Nutritional Highlights
While undeniably indulgent, these cheesecake bars also incorporate fresh fruit, offering a small boost of vitamins and antioxidants. Moderation is key, and the dessert can be enjoyed guilt-free as part of a balanced diet. For those looking to lighten the recipe, reducing sugar or using lower-fat dairy are excellent options without sacrificing flavor.
Conclusion: A Sweet Celebration of Flavor
Golden Oreo Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are more than just a dessert; they’re a testament to the joy of baking and the art of flavor pairing. With their buttery crust, creamy filling, and vibrant strawberry topping, these bars strike the perfect balance between indulgence and freshness. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Easy to make, visually stunning, and endlessly customizable, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
