The BEST Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars (Snack Bars)

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 11-12 full crackers)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 6 tbsp butter (melted)
• 2 (8 oz) pkgs cream cheese (softened)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 eggs (room temperature)
• 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries (chopped)
• 5 tbsp sugar
• 3 tbsp water
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tsp cornstarch
• 1/2 cup white chocolate chips

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line an 8x8 or 9x9 pan with a parchment sling. Then spray with baking spray.

2. 2

   In a medium bowl, combine the crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until evenly combined. Press into the bottom of the prepared pan, using a flat measuring cup or tamper to press down and pack the crust firmly.

3. 3

   In a large bowl, use hand beaters to combine cream cheese, sugar, sour cream, and vanilla on medium speed until smooth. Scrape well.

4. 4

   Add the eggs and combine on low speed until just combined. Don't overmix.

5. 5

   Pour filling over the crust. Bake for 25-35 minutes, or until the center is almost set, but still a bit jiggly. Remove and set on a wire rack to cool to room temperature (1-2 hours). Once cool, refrigerate in the pan for 3-4 hours.

6. 6

   --- Topping ---

7. 7

   While the cheesecake bars are baking, make the strawberry sauce. In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, bring all the sauce ingredients to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and continue cooking, stirring often, until the sauce is thick and a deep red color, about 15 minutes. Remove from the heat and allow to cool.

8. 8

   --- Assemble ---

9. 9

   Once cool, slice the cheesecake bars into 8-10 even slices using a large, sharp knife.

10. 10

    Using a spoon or offset spatula, add strawberry sauce on top of each bar, pushing it to the edge. OPTIONAL: If you want the original Philadelphia Snack Bar style, see the notes for how to create a well in the center of the bar.

11. 11

    In a microwave safe bowl, melt the white chocolate in 20 second increments, stirring between each until smooth. Pour the melted chocolate into a zipper bag and cut a tiny hole in the corner. Drizzle the chocolate over the bars and serve.