Creamy Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake Squares

These Creamy Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake Squares are the perfect balance of rich, velvety cheesecake and sweet, fruity strawberry swirls. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a beautifully marbled top, this dessert looks bakery-quality but is surprisingly easy to make at home. Ideal for parties, holidays, or make-ahead treats, these cheesecake squares slice cleanly and taste even better the next day.

Ingredients (Detailed)

For the Graham Cracker Crust

• 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  (about 10–12 full graham crackers, finely crushed)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
  Adds light sweetness and helps bind the crust
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  Provides richness and keeps the crust firm

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
  Use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
  Sweetens without overpowering the tang
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
  Helps the cheesecake set smoothly
• 1 cup sour cream
  Adds creaminess and slight tang
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  Enhances overall flavor

For the Strawberry Swirl

• 1 cup strawberry preserves or strawberry puree
  Smooth preserves work best
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
  Brightens and balances sweetness

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Baking Pan

• Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides for easy removal.
• Lightly grease the parchment.

2. Make the Crust

1. In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and sugar.
2. Pour in melted butter and mix until the texture resembles wet sand.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan using the back of a spoon or measuring cup.
4. Bake at 325°F (165°C) for 10 minutes.
5. Remove and allow to cool slightly.

Tip: A pre-baked crust prevents sogginess and adds structure.

3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until completely smooth and lump-free.
2. Add sugar and mix until creamy and well combined.
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed to avoid incorporating air.
4. Gently fold in sour cream and vanilla extract until smooth.

Important: Do not overmix — overmixing causes cracks.

4. Prepare the Strawberry Swirl

1. Warm strawberry preserves slightly in the microwave (10–15 seconds).
2. Stir until smooth; add lemon juice if using.
3. Let cool slightly before swirling.

5. Assemble the Cheesecake

1. Pour cheesecake filling evenly over the cooled crust.
2. Drop spoonfuls of the strawberry mixture across the surface.
3. Use a knife or skewer to swirl gently, creating a marbled pattern.

6. Bake

• Bake at 325°F (165°C) for 40–45 minutes.
• The edges should be set, and the centre should slightly jiggle.
• Turn off the oven, crack open the door, and let it cool inside for 30 minutes.

This prevents sudden temperature changes that cause cracking.

7. Chill & Slice

1. Let cheesecake cool completely at room temperature.
2. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
3. Lift out using parchment paper and slice into neat squares.

Expert Tips for Perfect Cheesecake Squares

• Use room-temperature ingredients for a smooth batter
• Clean the knife between cuts for sharp edges
  • Chill overnight for the best flavour and texture
• Avoid high oven temperature — low and slow is key

Recipe Variations

• No-Bake Version: Skip eggs, use gelatin, and chill instead of baking
• Berry Mix: Combine strawberry with raspberry or blueberry swirls
• Chocolate Crust: Replace graham crackers with chocolate cookies
• Extra Creamy: Add ¼ cup heavy cream to filling

Storage & Make-Ahead

• Refrigerator: Up to 5 days
• Freezer: Up to 2 months
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh strawberries?
Yes, cook them with sugar until thick, then blend.

Why did my cheesecake crack?
Overmixing, high heat, or rapid cooling.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes — use a 9×13-inch pan and adjust baking time.

Conclusion

These Creamy Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake Squares are smooth, rich, and bursting with strawberry flavour. With their elegant marbled look and melt-in-your-mouth texture, they’re guaranteed to impress while remaining simple enough for everyday baking.