Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- **Making the Graham Cracker Crust:** Place the graham crackers in a food processor and pulse until you have fine crumbs. If you don't have a food processor, you can place the crackers in a resealable bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix well until all the crumbs are moistened and the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to get a nice, even layer.
- Place the pan in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.
- **Preparing the Cheesecake Filling:** In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk to the cream cheese, beating until well combined.
- Add the lemon juice and vanilla extract and mix until everything is smooth and fully incorporated.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the chilled graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This chilling time is crucial for allowing the cheesecake filling to set properly.
- **Making the Strawberry Topping:** In a medium saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries and sugar. Stir gently and let them sit for about 10 minutes.
- Stir in the lemon juice and cornstarch.
- Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and the strawberries soften, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let the strawberry topping cool slightly before spreading it over the chilled cheesecake. This prevents the heat from melting the cheesecake filling.
- Spread the strawberry topping evenly over the cheesecake layer.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the topping to set.
- Cut into bars and serve.
Notes
For best results, ensure your cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature before mixing to prevent lumps. Avoid overmixing the cheesecake filling to prevent cracks. Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor. Chill the bars thoroughly before slicing. For clean slices, dip a large knife in warm water and wipe it dry before each cut. Store leftover bars in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.