Print

Flavorful Red White and Blue Cheesecake Bars Easy Homemade Recipe with Fresh Berries

red white and blue cheesecake bars - featured image

These cheesecake bars combine a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and fresh strawberries and blueberries for a festive, easy-to-make dessert perfect for summer celebrations.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 full sheets)
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
  • ⅔ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons sour cream
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1 cup fresh blueberries
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon powdered sugar to lightly dust the berries

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×9-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving a bit hanging over the edges for easy removal.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and ¼ cup sugar. Stir until mixture resembles damp sand.
  3. Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan using the bottom of a glass or measuring cup. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and let cool.
  4. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese with a mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy. Gradually add ⅔ cup sugar, mixing well.
  5. Add eggs one at a time, beating just until combined after each addition. Avoid overmixing.
  6. Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream until just blended.
  7. Pour the filling evenly over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes until the center is slightly jiggly but not liquid.
  9. Cool bars completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
  10. Just before serving, arrange sliced strawberries and whole blueberries on top. Lightly dust with powdered sugar if desired.

Notes

If crust edges brown too quickly, tent pan with foil halfway through baking. Warm knife under hot water and wipe between cuts for smooth slices. For gluten-free crust, use almond flour and reduce butter slightly. For dairy-free, substitute cream cheese and sour cream with coconut-based alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesecake bars, red white and blue dessert, fresh berries, summer dessert, easy cheesecake, patriotic dessert, graham cracker crust