Golden Oreo Strawberry Cheesecake Bars: A Summery Delight
Experience the Perfect Fusion of Creamy, Crunchy, and Fruity
When the sweetness of strawberries meets the creaminess of cheesecake and the crunch of Golden Oreo cookies, you get a dessert that’s nothing short of a delightful summer symphony. These Golden Oreo Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are a treat for your taste buds, combining the freshness of ripe strawberries with the richness of cheesecake, all nestled on a Golden Oreo crust. Get ready to savor the flavors of summer with this easy-to-make dessert. Here’s how to create these delectable bars.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 package of Golden Oreo cookies (about 36 cookies)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 ounces (2 packages) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Strawberry Layer:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
Baking Up a Slice of Summer Bliss
For the Crust:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9×9-inch (23×23 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal.
- Crush Oreos: In a food processor, pulse the entire package of Golden Oreo cookies until they turn into fine crumbs.
- Combine with Butter: In a mixing bowl, combine the Oreo crumbs with the melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated with the butter.
- Press into Pan: Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the crust.
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- Beat Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy.
- Add Sugar and Eggs: Gradually add the granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese. Beat until the mixture is well combined and silky.
- Spread Over Crust: Pour the cheesecake filling over the Golden Oreo crust in the baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
For the Strawberry Layer:
- Prepare Strawberries: In a separate bowl, toss the sliced strawberries with granulated sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Make sure the strawberries are well coated.
- Layer Strawberries: Arrange the strawberry mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer.
Baking and Cooling:
- Bake: Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes or until the edges are set, and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Cool: Remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate it for at least 2-3 hours, or until the bars are completely set.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Slice and Serve: Once the bars are set, use the parchment paper overhangs to lift them out of the pan. Place them on a cutting board and slice into squares.
- Garnish: For an extra touch of beauty, you can garnish each bar with a fresh strawberry slice or a dollop of whipped cream before serving.
Tips and Variations:
Customizing Your Golden Oreo Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Tips:
- For the creamiest cheesecake layer, make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing.
- To make slicing easier, you can dip a sharp knife in hot water before each cut. Wipe the knife clean between slices for clean, neat bars.
Variations:
- If you prefer a different berry, like raspberries or blueberries, you can easily substitute them for the strawberries in the recipe.
- To add a zesty twist, consider incorporating a teaspoon of lemon zest into the cheesecake layer for a delightful lemon-strawberry flavor combination.
Customization:
- These bars are incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different flavored Oreos for the crust, such as chocolate or vanilla.
Storage:
- Store any leftover Golden Oreo Strawberry Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
Cook’s Note:
- Golden Oreo Strawberry Cheesecake Bars capture the essence of summer in every bite. The sweet and tangy strawberry layer, the creamy cheesecake, and the satisfying crunch of Golden Oreos combine to create a dessert that’s both refreshing and indulgent. Whether you’re serving them at a backyard barbecue or simply enjoying a slice on a warm summer evening, these bars are a taste of sunshine. So, savor the flavors of the season and share this delightful treat with your loved ones.
