There’s something about baking with strawberries that always brings me joy. Maybe it’s the way their sweet aroma fills the kitchen or how their vibrant red hue pops in every dessert. These Strawberry Cream Cheese Crumble Bars are one of my favorite creations. I first made them on a spring afternoon when I had extra strawberries in the fridge and some leftover cream cheese from a cheesecake project. What started as an experiment turned into a recipe I now make on repeat. The combination of rich cream cheese, sweet strawberry filling, and a buttery crumble topping creates a layered treat that feels both nostalgic and indulgent.
You’re going to love these bars for more reasons than I can count. The texture is incredibly satisfying—from the soft, creamy center to the slightly crisp golden crumble on top. The flavor is just the right balance of fruity sweetness and rich tang from the cream cheese. They’re easy enough to whip up on a weekday and fancy enough to serve at a gathering. These bars are the kind of dessert that disappears fast, whether I bring them to a family brunch or serve them as an after-dinner treat.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This recipe is a crowd-pleaser. It’s simple, but the flavor and texture make it feel special. The contrast between the creamy layer and the crumbly topping is addictive. These bars are perfect for any occasion—picnics, potlucks, bake sales, or just a sweet ending to dinner at home. They’re also easy to make ahead and store, making your dessert prep stress-free. Plus, they slice beautifully, so they look as good as they taste.
Versatile
One of the best parts about this recipe is its versatility. While strawberries are the star, you can easily swap them for raspberries, blueberries, or even a mixed berry blend if you’re working with what’s in season or what you have on hand. You can add lemon zest for a citrusy touch or a dash of cinnamon to the crumble for warmth. The base crumble mixture works well with different fillings, so don’t be afraid to get creative.
Affordable
Strawberry Cream Cheese Crumble Bars are also budget-friendly. You don’t need any fancy ingredients—just simple staples like flour, sugar, butter, and eggs, with cream cheese and strawberries as the only specialty items. Whether you’re using fresh strawberries when they’re in season or frozen ones during the off-season, this recipe keeps costs low while delivering rich flavor and visual appeal.
Ingredients for the Recipe
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All-purpose flour
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Granulated sugar
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Light brown sugar
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Unsalted butter
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Cream cheese
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Egg
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Vanilla extract
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Fresh or frozen strawberries
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Cornstarch
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Lemon juice
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Salt
How to Prepare Strawberry Cream Cheese Crumble Bars
How to Prepare This Recipe
Making these Strawberry Cream Cheese Crumble Bars is simple and satisfying. It all starts with a buttery crumble dough that doubles as both the base and the topping. Then, we add a creamy, lightly sweetened cream cheese layer and top it off with a fresh strawberry filling before finishing with more crumble. The result is a three-layer dessert bar that’s both pretty and delicious.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Crumble Base and Topping
In a large bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of granulated sugar, ¼ cup of packed light brown sugar, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Add ¾ cup of cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes. Use a pastry cutter, two forks, or your fingers to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Once the mixture holds together when pressed but still feels crumbly, it’s ready.
Set aside ¾ cup of this mixture for the topping. Press the remaining crumble mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased or parchment-lined 8×8-inch baking pan to form the crust. Bake the crust at 175°C (350°F) for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Layer
In a medium bowl, beat 225g (8 oz) of softened cream cheese until smooth. Add ¼ cup of granulated sugar, 1 egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat until fully combined and creamy. Spread this cream cheese mixture evenly over the slightly cooled crust. It will form a smooth layer that holds everything together once baked.
Step 3: Prepare the Strawberry Filling
In a separate bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of chopped fresh strawberries (or thawed frozen strawberries), 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of fresh lemon juice. Stir gently until the berries are evenly coated. Spread the strawberry mixture on top of the cream cheese layer in an even layer, making sure the berries are evenly distributed across the surface.
Step 4: Add the Crumble Topping
Take the reserved ¾ cup of crumble mixture and sprinkle it evenly over the strawberries. This will bake into a golden, crisp topping that contrasts perfectly with the soft interior layers.
Step 5: Bake the Bars
Place the pan back into the oven and bake at 175°C (350°F) for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the cream cheese layer is set. The center should jiggle only slightly. Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature. For cleaner slices, refrigerate the bars for at least 1–2 hours before cutting.
Quick and Easy
This recipe comes together quickly, with minimal prep time and just a few bowls. There’s no complicated equipment or techniques—just basic baking methods that anyone can master. From start to finish, you can have these bars ready in just over an hour, including cooling time.
Customizable
Want to switch things up? No problem. These bars can be adapted to suit your taste or the season. Try swapping the strawberries for blueberries or peaches, or add a touch of almond extract for a nutty twist. You can even mix a bit of oats into the crumble for extra texture. The basic structure stays the same, but the flavors can change depending on what you’re craving or what you have available.
Popular With Many People
Every time I’ve served these bars, they’ve been a hit. They’re the kind of dessert that disappears fast from a table—especially among people who enjoy fruity, creamy desserts. Whether it’s at a potluck, picnic, birthday party, or just as a weekday indulgence, these bars consistently get compliments. Their appealing layers and vibrant color make them a visual standout, too, which always makes guests eager to try them.
Strawberry Cream Cheese Crumble Bars
These Strawberry Cream Cheese Crumble Bars are a delightful layered treat featuring a buttery crumble base, a smooth cream cheese filling, and a sweet strawberry topping. Easy to make and full of flavor, these bars are perfect for any occasion—from family gatherings to weekday snacks.
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 1x
Ingredients
For the crumble crust and topping:
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup packed light brown sugar
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the cream cheese layer:
- 225g (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the strawberry filling:
- 1½ cups chopped strawberries (fresh or thawed frozen)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Make the crumble mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt. Add cold butter cubes. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture becomes coarse and crumbly.
- Form the base: Reserve ¾ cup of the crumble for the topping. Press the rest firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Bake the base for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside.
- Prepare the cream cheese filling: In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until creamy and well combined. Spread the mixture evenly over the partially baked crust.
- Prepare the strawberry filling: In another bowl, combine chopped strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Toss until the strawberries are well coated. Spread the strawberry mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer.
- Top and bake: Sprinkle the reserved crumble evenly over the strawberries. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.
- Cool and slice: Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours. Once chilled, cut into squares and serve.
Notes
For best results, press the crust firmly so it holds together after baking.
Make sure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
Refrigeration before slicing helps the layers set cleanly.
If using frozen strawberries, thaw and drain well to avoid excess moisture.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 35
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, frozen strawberries work well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them first and drain off any excess liquid. If the strawberries are too watery, they can make the cream cheese layer soggy. You can pat them dry with paper towels before mixing them with sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch.
How long can I store these bars?
Strawberry Cream Cheese Crumble Bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. For the best texture, allow the bars to come to room temperature before serving, or enjoy them chilled straight from the fridge.
Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, these bars freeze beautifully. After they’ve cooled completely, slice them and wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap or parchment paper. Place the wrapped bars in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. You can double the ingredients and bake the bars in a 9×13-inch pan. The baking time may need to be increased by 5–10 minutes. Keep an eye on the color of the crumble topping—it should be golden and crisp when done.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you need a substitute for cream cheese, try using full-fat Greek yogurt or mascarpone. Keep in mind, the flavor and texture may change slightly. Greek yogurt will give a tangier taste, while mascarpone will offer a richer, more mellow flavor.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour. Make sure your other ingredients (like cornstarch and baking products) are certified gluten-free if you’re baking for someone with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.