A Sweet Treat for Any Occasion
Golden Oreo Strawberry Cheesecake Bars combine the buttery sweetness of Golden Oreos with the creamy richness of cheesecake and the bright tang of fresh strawberry sauce. This recipe is a dream for dessert lovers looking for an easy yet impressive treat that works for any gathering, from casual picnics to elegant dinner parties.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to make these delicious bars, from ingredients and kitchen equipment to expert tips and variations. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just getting started, this recipe is accessible, fun, and oh-so-rewarding.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cheesecake bars are the perfect blend of textures and flavors. The Golden Oreo crust offers a buttery crunch, while the cheesecake layer is smooth and creamy. The strawberry sauce adds a fruity punch, making these bars a standout dessert.
This recipe is also great for busy schedules—most of the prep work is done in a food processor, saving you time and effort. Plus, the bars are made in an 8-inch pan, so you can easily scale the recipe up or down depending on your needs.
Ingredients for Golden Oreo Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Crust:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 24 Golden Oreos, divided
For the Strawberry Sauce:
- 1 1/4 cups strawberries, medium diced
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon water
- 2 teaspoons fresh-squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Golden Oreo Crust
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place half of the Golden Oreos in a food processor and pulse until they form fine crumbs.
- Add melted butter to the crumbs and pulse again until fully combined.
- Press the mixture into an 8-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper or foil.
- Bake for 5 minutes, then set aside to cool.
2. Make the Strawberry Sauce
- In a small pot, combine diced strawberries, sugar, and water. Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Mix lemon juice and cornstarch in a small bowl, then add to the strawberry mixture. Simmer for 1 minute until thickened.
- Transfer the mixture to a food processor and blend until smooth. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
- In the food processor, combine cream cheese, sour cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and egg. Blend until smooth and creamy.
4. Assemble the Cheesecake Bars
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust.
- Drizzle half of the strawberry sauce over the cheesecake layer. Swirl gently with a knife for a marbled effect.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 36 minutes or until the cheesecake is just slightly jiggly in the center.
5. Add the Topping
- Crush the remaining Golden Oreos and sprinkle them over the cooled cheesecake. Press gently to adhere.
- Refrigerate the bars for at least 3 hours before cutting them into squares.
Tips and Tricks
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and egg are at room temperature for a smooth filling.
- Swirl Like a Pro: Use the tip of a butter knife to create intricate swirls with the strawberry sauce.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free sandwich cookies for the Golden Oreos.
- Extra Strawberry Sauce: Use leftover strawberry sauce as a topping for pancakes, waffles, or yogurt.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Food processor
- 8-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper or foil
- Mixing bowls
- Saucepan
- Wire rack
- Knife for swirling
Storage and Leftovers
Store the cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. To freeze, wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of Oreo?
Absolutely! Chocolate Oreos or other flavored varieties work well if you want to experiment with different crust flavors.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, frozen strawberries can be used. Just thaw them first and drain any excess liquid before making the sauce.
Do I need a food processor?
A food processor makes the process quicker, but you can also crush the Oreos with a rolling pin and mix the cheesecake ingredients with a hand mixer.
What’s the best way to cut clean squares?
Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water and wipe the blade clean between cuts for neat edges.
Food and Drink Pairings
Pair these bars with a glass of sparkling lemonade for a refreshing treat, or serve them alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy dessert.
Final Thoughts
Golden Oreo Strawberry Cheesecake Bars are the perfect dessert for any occasion. Their balance of flavors and textures makes them a crowd-pleaser, and their ease of preparation ensures you’ll make them again and again.
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