Description
Strawberries and cream bars are a light and refreshing layered dessert with a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake-style filling, and a glossy strawberry topping. Perfect for spring and summer gatherings, they’re easy to make and slice beautifully for sharing.
Ingredients
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 8 oz whipped topping or 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
- 3 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 box (3 oz) strawberry gelatin
- 2 cups water (per gelatin package instructions)
- 1–2 tbsp sugar (optional, if strawberries are not sweet)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press firmly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then let cool completely.
- In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Fold in whipped topping until light and creamy. Spread evenly over the cooled crust.
- Arrange sliced strawberries evenly over the cream layer.
- Prepare strawberry gelatin according to package instructions. Let it cool slightly, then gently pour over the strawberries.
- Refrigerate until fully set, at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Slice into bars and serve chilled.
Notes
Use a shortbread cookie crust for a richer variation.Add white chocolate drizzle on top for extra elegance.Try mixed berries like raspberries or blueberries along with strawberries.Make in parfait glasses for individual servings.Ensure gelatin cools slightly before pouring to avoid melting the cream layer.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
