Introduction
Golden Oreo Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are the perfect dessert to elevate any occasion, combining the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake with the bright and refreshing flavor of fresh strawberries. What makes them truly irresistible is the buttery, sweet Golden Oreo crust that adds the perfect crunch and complements the creamy filling. These bars are wonderfully easy to make—no baking required—and they are the ideal treat for hot summer days or when you need something quick yet impressive for a party or family gathering.
I first made these cheesecake bars for a summer picnic, and they were a hit! The vibrant strawberry topping added a burst of color and sweetness, while the smooth cheesecake filling had that perfect tangy flavor that pairs so beautifully with the Golden Oreos. They disappeared so quickly, and it was clear why—each bite was a balance of flavors that everyone loved. What I especially love about this dessert is how versatile it is. You can easily switch out the strawberries for other fruits like blueberries or raspberries, depending on what’s in season, and it’s just as delicious.
These Golden Oreo Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are a breeze to make, and their creamy filling and crunchy crust are the perfect combination for any dessert lover. Whether you’re hosting a summer party, looking for a refreshing holiday treat, or just craving something sweet, these bars will definitely satisfy your dessert needs and impress your guests.
Perfect for:
- Summer picnics or BBQs
- Holiday dessert tables
- Birthday parties
- Easy no-bake desserts
- Gifting homemade treats
Why You’ll Love This Golden Oreo Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
These Golden Oreo Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are a deliciously indulgent yet easy-to-make treat. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this dessert:
- Perfect Texture: The creamy cheesecake filling perfectly contrasts the crisp, buttery Golden Oreo crust, creating a satisfying bite every time.
- No-Bake: You don’t have to turn on the oven to make these bars, making them a quick and easy dessert for any occasion.
- Refreshing Flavor: The sweetness of the Golden Oreos and the tangy, fresh strawberries provide a perfect balance that everyone will enjoy.
- Visually Stunning: The beautiful strawberry topping adds a burst of color and elegance to the dessert, making it perfect for serving at parties or special events.
- Customizable: You can adjust the strawberry layer or even use different fruits like raspberries or blueberries for a unique twist.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 6 hours (includes chilling time)
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 5 hours or overnight
- Servings: About 16-20 bars
- Calories per serving: Approximately 200-250 calories
- Key Nutrients: Carbs: 25g, Fat: 12g, Protein: 3g
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make your Golden Oreo Strawberry Cheesecake Bars:
For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups Golden Oreos (about 20-22 cookies), crushed
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream (chilled)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Strawberry Topping:
- 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Ingredient Highlights
- Golden Oreos: The sweet and slightly crunchy Golden Oreos form a perfect base for the cheesecake filling and add extra flavor to the bars.
- Cream Cheese: Full-fat cream cheese gives these bars a rich and creamy texture that makes every bite feel indulgent.
- Heavy Whipping Cream: Chilled heavy whipping cream is essential for making the filling light and airy while maintaining that cheesecake-like consistency.
- Fresh Strawberries: Fresh, ripe strawberries provide a sweet and vibrant topping that brings freshness to the rich and creamy cheesecake bars.
- Lemon Juice: A small amount of lemon juice adds a hint of tanginess, balancing the sweetness of the strawberries and enhancing the flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s how to make Golden Oreo Strawberry Cheesecake Bars:
Prepare the Crust:
- Crush the Oreos: Using a food processor or a plastic bag and rolling pin, crush the Golden Oreos into fine crumbs. You should have about 1 ½ cups of crumbs.
- Mix with Butter: In a bowl, combine the crushed Oreos with the melted butter, stirring until everything is evenly coated.
- Press into Pan: Press the Oreo mixture into the bottom of a 9×9-inch square baking pan (or similar size) lined with parchment paper. Use the back of a spoon to pack it tightly.
- Chill the Crust: Place the pan in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to allow the crust to firm up before adding the filling.
Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- Beat the Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add Sugar and Vanilla: Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the cream cheese and beat until well combined.
- Whip the Cream: In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream and lemon juice until stiff peaks form (about 3-5 minutes).
- Fold the Whipped Cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream.
- Spread the Filling: Spoon the cheesecake filling onto the chilled Oreo crust and spread it into an even layer using a spatula.
- Chill: Refrigerate the cheesecake bars for at least 4-5 hours, or until the filling is set.
Make the Strawberry Topping:
- Prepare the Strawberries: In a small bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir gently and allow the mixture to sit for about 10-15 minutes to macerate.
- Top the Cheesecake Bars: Once the cheesecake is set, spoon the strawberry mixture evenly over the top of the bars.
- Chill Again: Refrigerate for an additional 30 minutes to allow the topping to firm up and meld with the cheesecake.
How to Serve Golden Oreo Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
These Golden Oreo Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are versatile and easy to serve. Here are some ideas:
- Chilled for Freshness: Serve these bars chilled, straight from the fridge, to maintain their creamy texture and keep the strawberry topping fresh.
- At a Party: Cut into small squares for easy serving at birthday parties, family gatherings, or BBQs.
- As a Dessert Platter: Include them on a dessert platter alongside other sweet treats like brownies, cookies, and fruit tarts.
- With a Coffee or Tea: Pair these cheesecake bars with a cup of coffee or tea for a sweet afternoon treat.
- In Dessert Cups: Serve individual portions in small glass cups or jars for a fun and portable dessert option.
Additional Tips for Golden Oreo Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Here are some helpful tips for making your Golden Oreo Strawberry Cheesecake Bars even better:
- Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese: For a smoother filling, make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing.
- Chill the Filling Long Enough: Make sure to refrigerate the bars long enough for the cheesecake to set. Overnight chilling is ideal for the best texture.
- Use Fresh Strawberries: For the best topping, use fresh, ripe strawberries. Frozen strawberries can work, but they may release more liquid.
- Add a Topping Variation: If you’re not a fan of strawberries, you can substitute other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for the topping.
- Avoid Overmixing: When folding in the whipped cream, be gentle to avoid losing air and achieving a light, fluffy filling.
- Make Mini Bars: You can also make mini versions of these bars by using a muffin tin or mini square pans.
- Try a Graham Cracker Crust: If you prefer a more traditional cheesecake crust, substitute the Golden Oreos with graham cracker crumbs.
- Add a Layer of Jelly: If you want a thicker fruit layer, you can add a thin layer of fruit jelly (such as strawberry or raspberry) under the cheesecake layer before chilling.
- Add Chocolate Drizzle: For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the strawberry topping.
- Serve with Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of fresh whipped cream on top of each serving for an added creamy texture.
Recipe Variations for Golden Oreo Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Here are 10 fun Golden Oreo Strawberry Cheesecake Bars variations to try:
- Raspberry Cheesecake Bars: Use fresh raspberries instead of strawberries for a tart contrast to the creamy filling.
- Mixed Berry Topping: Top with a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries for a colorful and flavorful topping.
- Chocolate Cheesecake Bars: Add cocoa powder to the cheesecake filling for a chocolate twist.
- Nutty Crust: Add finely chopped nuts like pecans or almonds to the Golden Oreo crust for a crunchy texture.
- Lemon Cheesecake Bars: Add lemon zest to the filling and use a lemon curd topping for a citrusy twist.
- Chocolate Ganache Topping: Drizzle with homemade chocolate ganache for a rich and indulgent topping.
- Peach Cheesecake Bars: Use fresh peaches or peach preserves for a summer fruit variation.
- Caramel Cheesecake Bars: Add a swirl of caramel sauce into the cheesecake filling and top with caramelized sugar.
- Coconut Cheesecake Bars: Incorporate toasted coconut into the filling for a tropical flavor.
- Banana Cheesecake Bars: Use banana slices on top for a unique and delicious twist on the strawberry version.
Freezing and Storage
- Freezing: These cheesecake bars can be frozen for up to 2 months. After they’ve chilled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store in an airtight container in the freezer.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The texture is best when served chilled.
Special Equipment for Golden Oreo Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Golden Oreo Strawberry Cheesecake Bars easier:
- 9×9-inch Baking Pan: This size is perfect for these cheesecake bars, providing enough room for an even crust and filling.
- Food Processor: Use this for easily crushing the Golden Oreos into fine crumbs.
- Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: Essential for beating the cream cheese and whipping the heavy cream for the filling.
- Spatula: For spreading the cheesecake filling and topping evenly over the crust.
- Parchment Paper: Line the baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal of the bars once they’re set.
FAQ Section for Golden Oreo Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
- Can I use other cookies instead of Golden Oreos?
Yes, you can use any type of cookies for the crust, such as regular Oreos, graham crackers, or even chocolate chip cookies for a unique twist. - Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the Golden Oreos with gluten-free cookies to make the dessert gluten-free. - Can I freeze these cheesecake bars?
Yes, after they’ve chilled, you can freeze these cheesecake bars for up to 2 months. Make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. - How long do these cheesecake bars last in the fridge?
They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 5 days when stored in an airtight container. - Can I use frozen strawberries?
While fresh strawberries are ideal for the topping, frozen strawberries can also work. Just make sure to drain any excess liquid before using them. - Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, these bars are perfect for making ahead. Prepare them a day or two before serving and keep them in the fridge. - What can I use instead of heavy whipping cream?
You can substitute heavy whipping cream with mascarpone cheese for a thicker, richer filling. - How can I make these bars more festive?
Add colored sprinkles, edible glitter, or festive fruits like kiwi or mango for a fun and vibrant look. - How do I know when the bars are fully set?
The cheesecake filling should be firm to the touch and should not jiggle when you move the pan. - Can I make these with a different fruit topping?
Yes, feel free to use other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a unique variation.
Golden Oreo Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups Golden Oreos (about 20–22 cookies), crushed
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream (chilled)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the strawberry topping:
- 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions
Prepare the Crust:
- Crush the Oreos: Using a food processor or a plastic bag and rolling pin, crush the Golden Oreos into fine crumbs. You should have about 1 ½ cups of crumbs.
- Mix with Butter: In a bowl, combine the crushed Oreos with the melted butter, stirring until everything is evenly coated.
- Press into Pan: Press the Oreo mixture into the bottom of a 9×9-inch square baking pan (or similar size) lined with parchment paper. Use the back of a spoon to pack it tightly.
- Chill the Crust: Place the pan in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to allow the crust to firm up before adding the filling.
Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- Beat the Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add Sugar and Vanilla: Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the cream cheese and beat until well combined.
- Whip the Cream: In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream and lemon juice until stiff peaks form (about 3-5 minutes).
- Fold the Whipped Cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream.
- Spread the Filling: Spoon the cheesecake filling onto the chilled Oreo crust and spread it into an even layer using a spatula.
- Chill: Refrigerate the cheesecake bars for at least 4-5 hours, or until the filling is set.
Make the Strawberry Topping:
- Prepare the Strawberries: In a small bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir gently and allow the mixture to sit for about 10-15 minutes to macerate.
- Top the Cheesecake Bars: Once the cheesecake is set, spoon the strawberry mixture evenly over the top of the bars.
- Chill Again: Refrigerate for an additional 30 minutes to allow the topping to firm up and meld with the cheesecake.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 16-20 bars
- Calories: 200-250 kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 3g
Conclusion
Golden Oreo Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are the perfect combination of creamy cheesecake, sweet strawberries, and buttery Golden Oreos. The crumbly Golden Oreo crust adds a delightful crunch, while the creamy cheesecake layer creates a smooth, rich contrast. Topped with fresh strawberries, these bars are a refreshing and indulgent treat for any occasion.
Whether you’re serving them for a special celebration or enjoying them as a sweet snack at home, these bars are sure to impress. With a simple no-bake process and endless possibilities for customization—whether adding a drizzle of chocolate, a sprinkle of crushed Oreos, or swapping in other fruits—this dessert is a keeper.
I can’t wait to see how your Golden Oreo Strawberry Cheesecake Bars turn out! Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on social media—I love seeing your delicious creations! Enjoy baking and sharing this sweet treat with your loved ones!