The Story & Intro
Hi, I’m INAYA, 38, from the beautiful island of Crete in Greece. Growing up, my grandmother used to make the most incredible desserts, always with fresh fruits from our garden. One of my favorites was her simple strawberry cake light, fluffy, and full of sunshine. Years later, while living abroad, I wanted to bring back that taste of home but with a creamy twist. That’s how my Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars were born.
This recipe combines the classic flavor of strawberry shortcake with the silky smoothness of cheesecake, all in an easy-to-serve bar form. It’s perfect for sharing whether you’re bringing dessert to a summer picnic, celebrating a birthday, or just craving something special after dinner.
What I love most about these bars is how they balance simplicity and elegance. You don’t need fancy tools or complicated steps, just a bit of love and patience. The buttery crust, creamy cheesecake layer, and sweet strawberry topping come together like a warm hug in dessert form.
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s fresh, nostalgic, and impossible to resist, these Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars will make your heart happy.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 cups crushed golden Oreos (or vanilla cookies)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons sugar
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
For the Strawberry Layer:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch dissolved in 2 tablespoons water
For the Crumble Topping:
- 1 cup crushed golden Oreos
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 tablespoons strawberry gelatin powder

Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a bowl, mix the crushed golden Oreos, melted butter, and sugar until it resembles wet sand. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let it cool.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined. Blend in vanilla and sour cream. Pour the batter over the cooled crust and smooth the top.

Step 3: Prepare the Strawberry Layer
In a small saucepan, combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for 5 minutes until juicy. Stir in cornstarch slurry and cook until thickened. Let it cool slightly, then spoon over the cheesecake layer.
Step 4: Bake and Chill
Bake for 30–35 minutes until the center is just set. Cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight).
Step 5: Add the Crumble Topping
In a bowl, mix crushed Oreos, melted butter, and strawberry gelatin powder. Sprinkle evenly over chilled bars before cutting.

Serving Suggestions
Cut the bars into neat squares using a warm knife for clean edges. Garnish with a dollop of whipped cream and a fresh strawberry slice.
These Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars are perfect for brunches, birthdays, or romantic evenings. They pair beautifully with iced coffee or a glass of sparkling rosé.
Print
Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars – A Sweet Slice of Love
These Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars combine creamy cheesecake, buttery golden Oreo crust, and a sweet strawberry topping with a pink crumble. Perfect for birthdays, summer gatherings, or when you simply crave a fruity, comforting dessert. Easy to make and even easier to love!
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients
For the Crust:
2 cups crushed golden Oreos (or vanilla cookies)
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons sugar
For the Cheesecake Layer:
16 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup sour cream
For the Strawberry Layer:
2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped
¼ cup sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch dissolved in 2 tablespoons water
For the Crumble Topping:
1 cup crushed golden Oreos
3 tablespoons melted butter
2 tablespoons strawberry gelatin powder
Instructions
Prepare the Crust:
Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Mix crushed Oreos, melted butter, and sugar. Press into pan and bake for 10 minutes. Cool completely.Make the Cheesecake Filling:
Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until blended. Add vanilla and sour cream. Pour over cooled crust.Prepare the Strawberry Layer:
In a saucepan, combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook 5 minutes. Add cornstarch slurry and cook until thickened. Cool slightly and spoon over cheesecake layer.Bake & Chill:
Bake 30–35 minutes or until the center is set. Cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.Add Crumble Topping:
Combine crushed Oreos, melted butter, and gelatin powder. Sprinkle over chilled bars before serving.Serve:
Slice into bars. Garnish with whipped cream and fresh strawberries for a beautiful finish.
Notes
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free vanilla cookies.
Let the bars chill fully that’s what gives them their creamy texture.
You can replace fresh strawberries with frozen (just simmer a bit longer).
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (out of 12)
- Calories: 285
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Conclusion
Desserts have always been my favorite way to connect with people a little sweetness that brings everyone closer. These Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars are a love letter to simple joys and childhood memories.
From my kitchen in Crete to yours, I hope this recipe fills your home with warmth, laughter, and the delicious scent of strawberries. Because food isn’t just about taste it’s about creating memories that last. ❤️
🍓 Short 100-Word Version
Hi, I’m Inaya from Crete! My Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Bars are a blend of buttery crust, creamy cheesecake, and sweet strawberry topping inspired by my grandmother’s summer desserts. These bars are easy to make, perfect for sharing, and taste like pure happiness. Each bite has a balance of crunch, creaminess, and fruity freshness. Serve them cold with whipped cream for an unforgettable treat that feels like home.