Strawberry Cream Cheese CVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)ble Bars are a delightful treat that showcase the sweet and tangy flavors of fresh strawberries combined with creamy goodness. Perfect for any gathering, these bars offer a satisfying dessert option that everyone will love. Whether served at a summer picnic or a cozy family dinner, these bars are sure to impress with their unique taste and texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of strawberries and cream cheese creates an irresistible flavor explosion.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these bars can be made by bakers of all levels.
• Versatile Dessert: Ideal for various occasions, such as birthday parties, potlucks, or just a sweet treat after dinner.
• Make Ahead Option: These bars can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for easy serving later.
• Perfectly Balanced: The sweetness of the strawberries complements the rich cream cheese, making each bite a delight.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delectable recipe, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer (or whisk)
• 9×13 baking pan
• Cooking spray or parchment paper
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl is essential for combining ingredients effectively without spills.
• Electric mixer: This tool ensures that your cream cheese mixture becomes smooth and creamy quickly.
• 9×13 baking pan: The right size ensures even baking and easy cutting of your delicious bars.
• Wire rack: Cooling your bars on a wire rack prevents sogginess by allowing air circulation around them.

Ingredients

To create these mouthwatering Strawberry Cream Cheese CVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)ble Bars, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 18.25 oz box vanilla cake mix
• 1/3 cup butter (room temperature or softened)
• 2 large eggs (1 egg for crust/cVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)ble and 1 egg for cream cheese mixture)
• 3 cups fresh strawberries
• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

this recipe

How to Make Strawberry Cream Cheese CVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)ble Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°. This step is vital for ensuring even baking throughout your bars.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Spray a 9×13 baking pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper. This will help you easily remove the bars later.

Step 3: Make the Crust Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine:
1. Softened butter
2. One egg
3. Vanilla cake mix

Use an electric mixer or your hands to blend until it forms a stiff dough similar to pastry dough.

Step 4: Reserve Dough for Topping

Once combined, set aside 1 cup of the cake mixture for the topping later.

Step 5: Press Crust into Pan

Press the remaining cake mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Bake in preheated oven for about 10 minutes.

Step 6: Make Cream Cheese Mixture

While the crust is baking:
1. In another mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, optional lemon juice, and remaining egg.
2. Beat until smooth using an electric mixer.

Step 7: Assemble Layers

Spread the cream cheese mixture over the baked crust evenly.

Step 8: Add Strawberries

Arrange thick slices of fresh strawberries over the cream cheese layer. Sprinkle with reserved cake mixture on top.

Step 9: Bake Again

Return to oven and bake for an additional 30–35 minutes or until the center is set and topping is golden brown.

Step 10: Cool Bars

Allow bars to cool on a wire rack before adding glaze.

Step 11: Prepare Vanilla Cream Glaze

For quick glaze:
1. Combine 1 cup powdered sugar with 2–3 tablespoons milk in a bowl.
2. Mix until you achieve a thick pourable consistency. If lumpy, microwave briefly for smoothness before pouring over cooled bars or drizzling from a ziploc bag.

Step 12: Chill Before Serving

Chill bars for approximately 30 minutes before cutting into squares and serving. Enjoy!

These Strawberry Cream Cheese CVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)ble Bars are sure to become a favorite among family and friends!

How to Serve Strawberry Cream Cheese CVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)ble Bars

Serving Strawberry Cream Cheese CVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)ble Bars is simple and delightful. These bars are perfect for any occasion, and here are some creative ways to present them.

Individual Portions

• Place each bar in a cupcake liner for an easy grab-and-go option.
• Serve on small dessert plates with a dollop of whipped cream.

Garnished with Fresh Fruit

• Top each bar with additional fresh strawberries for a burst of color and flavor.
• Add a sprinkle of mint leaves for an aromatic touch.

With Ice Cream

• Pair the bars with vanilla or strawberry ice cream for a delicious contrast.
• Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the top for extra indulgence.

As a Picnic Treat

• Pack them in a portable container to enjoy on picnics or road trips.
• Slice into smaller squares for easy sharing among friends and family.

How to Perfect Strawberry Cream Cheese CVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)ble Bars

To ensure your Strawberry Cream Cheese CVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)ble Bars turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh strawberries: Fresh berries enhance flavor and texture, making your bars more delicious.
• Soften cream cheese properly: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing and a smooth filling.
• Don’t skip chilling: Allow the bars to chill before serving; this helps them set better and makes cutting easier.
• Check baking times: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on the bars as they bake to avoid overcooking or undercooking.
• Experiment with flavors: Try adding different extracts like almond or coconut for unique variations.
• Store correctly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Cream Cheese CVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)ble Bars

These Strawberry Cream Cheese CVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)ble Bars pair wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance their sweet flavors. Here are some great options.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds creaminess and balances sweetness.
2. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and complements the strawberries nicely.
3. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy side that contrasts the richness of the bars.
4. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: Enhance the strawberry theme by serving these simple treats alongside your bars.
5. Lemon Sorbet: The tartness of sorbet cuts through the richness, refreshing the palate after each bite.
6. Whipped Cream Topping: Offer whipped cream as an optional topping to add lightness to each serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Strawberry Cream Cheese CVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)ble Bars can be fun, but certain mistakes can affect the final product. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overmixing the Dough: When mixing the dough, be careful not to overdo it. Overmixing can lead to tough bars instead of a tender crust. Mix just until combined.

• Skipping the Cooling Time: Allowing the bars to cool is essential for maintaining their shape. If you cut them too soon, they may fall apart. Patience is key!

• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science. Use proper measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, especially with flour and sugar. Too much or too little can change the texture.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Ensure that your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature before mixing. Cold ingredients can result in lumps in your cream cheese mixture.

• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Every oven heats differently. It’s wise to check your bars a few minutes before the suggested baking time to avoid overbaking.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover bars in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
• Make sure they are completely cooled before storing to prevent excess moisture.

Freezing Strawberry Cream Cheese CVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)ble Bars

• Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap.
• Use an airtight freezer-safe container for added protection.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Strawberry Cream Cheese CVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)ble Bars

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, place bars on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat bars individually on a microwave-safe plate for about 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Warm them gently in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, covered, to retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these Strawberry Cream Cheese CVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)ble Bars special?

These bars combine fresh strawberries with creamy texture, making them highly enjoyable and perfect for any dessert lover.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh ones are unavailable. Just ensure they are thawed and drained well before using.

How can I customize my Strawberry Cream Cheese CVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)ble Bars?

You can add nuts or use different fruits like raspberries or blueberries for a unique flavor twist!

Are these bars gluten-free?

No, this recipe uses regular vanilla cake mix which contains gluten. However, you can substitute with a gluten-free cake mix if needed.

How should I serve these bars?

These delicious bars are best served chilled and make great additions to potlucks or family gatherings!

Final Thoughts

Strawberry Cream Cheese CVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)ble Bars are a delightful treat bursting with flavor! Their creamy texture combined with fresh strawberries makes them irresistible. You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite fruits or toppings. Try making these bars today—they’re sure to become a favorite dessert!

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Strawberry Cream Cheese Vanilla Bars

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• Author: Madison
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Strawberry Cream Cheese Vanilla Bars! These bars beautifully combine the sweetness of fresh strawberries with the creamy richness of cream cheese, creating a dessert that will impress at any gathering. Perfect for summer picnics or cozy family dinners, this easy-to-make treat is versatile enough for birthdays, potlucks, or simply to enjoy after a meal. With their balanced flavors and satisfying texture, these bars are sure to become a favorite among friends and family.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 box (18.25 oz) vanilla cake mix
• 1/3 cup butter (softened)
• 2 large eggs
• 3 cups fresh strawberries (sliced)
• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: 1.5 tablespoons lemon juice

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Grease a 9×13 baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
3. In a mixing bowl, beat together softened butter, one egg, and the cake mix until a stiff dough forms.
4. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake for about 10 minutes.
5. In another bowl, mix cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, optional lemon juice, and the second egg until smooth.
6. Spread the cream cheese mixture over the baked crust. Top with sliced strawberries and reserved dough.
7. Bake for an additional 30–35 minutes until set and golden brown.
8. Allow to cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 31g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: Use fresh strawberries for optimal flavor. Allow cooling time before slicing to maintain shape. For variations, consider adding nuts or using different fruits like raspberries.