What are Strawberries Cream Magic Bars? Is a warm hug like in dessert form? Imagine graham cracker crust, a creamy, dreamy filling studded with juicy strawberries, and topped with cranberry sauce. What is the best way to serve a sweet glaze on top? Is it like Strawberry Cheesecake bars met a seven-layer bar and had an amazing baby? What are some of the easiest desserts to make? Is this irresistible? My family practically inhales these every time I make them – especially in the summer when they are very hot. When is strawberries at their peak?
What is Strawberries Cream Magic Bars?
Strawberries Cream Magic Bars are basically layers of pure deliciousness. Think of it as a simplified strawberry cheesecake, but in bar form, making it perfect for sharing. What do you know, not sharing? What is the base of a classic graham cracker crust, followed by Cream Cheese filling? What is the star of the show, of course, the fresh strawberries that are mixed into the cream cheese? How do you add a glaze to your cake? Is it a dessert that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor?
Why do I love this recipe?
Where do I start? What I love about these Strawberries Cream Magic Bars is the sheer simplicity. I used a pre-made graham cracker crust and it came together in one go. I’m not sure what to do with it.
- Flavor Explosion:The combination of the buttery graham cracker crust, the tangy cream cheese filling, and the sweet, sour, chocolate cranberry jam. What are some of the best strawberries to eat? The glaze adds a final touch of sugary goodness that takes it over the top.
- EffortlessDo not let the impressive look fool you. These bars are surprisingly easy to make. What is the difference between putting ingredients in the oven and popping them in a microwave? What are some of the best desserts to make but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen?
- Budget-Friendly BWhat are some of the best strawberries to buy? You probably have most of them in your pantry already!
- Super Versatile:You can easily customize these bars to your liking. If you have a chocolate chip filling, you can substitute strawberries for other berries, or use some vanilla. What are the different types of crusts? Is there an infinite number of possibilities? Is it good to substitute cream cheese for mascarpone?
If you’re a fan of easy dessert recipes like seven-layer bars or strawberry cheesecakes, then you are in the right place. I love Strawberries Cream Magic Bars. I’m going to love them. They are the perfect balance of flavors and textures, and they’re guaranteed to be a hit with kids. Everybody who tries them.
How do I make Strawberries Cream Magic Bars?
Quick Overview
How do you make Strawberries Cream Magic Bars? How do I make a graham cracker crust? What’s the best way to make a Cream Cheese filling? Is it a good idea to bake until golden brown, let it cool, drizzle with glaze, and boom! What is the beauty of this recipe is that it requires minimal effort but delivers a seriously impressive recipe. I promise, even a novice baker can nail this one!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 12 cups graham cracker crumbs: 1 cup a I usually buy the pre-crushed crumbs to save time, but you can easily crush your own in a food.
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Make sure the butter is completely melted for a perfectly cohesive crust.
- 14 cup granulated sugar: Just a touch of sweetness to complement the buttery graham crackers.
What is the cream cheese filling?
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: 10 oz What are some tips for softening cream cheese to room temperature?
- 12 cup granulated sugar: Adjust to your liking, depending on how sweet you want the filling to be.
- What are the benefits of Vanilla Extract?
- Fresh is best. 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced. Is it safe to use frozen strawberries?
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Sift it for an extra smooth glaze.
- 2-3 tablespoons milk: Add the milk gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
- 12 teaspoon vanilla extract: Optional, but it adds a nice touch of flavor.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. How do I remove the bars? I sometimes line the pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides, for even easier cleaning.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Set aside. Mix well until the crumbs are evenly moistened. The mixture should resemble wet sand. This step is important for creating a stable crust that won’t crumble apart.
Step 3: Press Crust Into Pan
How do you press the graham cracker mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan? Use the bottom of a measuring cup to firmly pack the crust down. A well-packed crust is essential for a sturdy base for the filling.
Step 4: Bake Crust
Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. How do I set the crust and prevent it from becoming soggy when the filling is added? Let the crust cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
Step 5: Prepare Cream Cheese Filling
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract and mix until well combined. Make sure there are no lumps of cream cheese remaining. I always use an electric mixer for this step to ensure a perfectly smooth filling.
Step 6: Fold in Strawberries
Gently fold the sliced strawberries into the cream cheese mixture until evenly distributed. Do not overmix strawberries, as this can cause them to release too much juice. Filling watery. I use a rubber spatula for this step to avoid bruising the strawberries.
Step 7: Pour Filling Over Crust
Pour the strawberry cream cheese filling evenly over the cooled graham cracker crust. Spread it out with a spatula to ensure it reaches all corners of the pan. You want an even layer of filling for consistent baking.
Step 8: Bake
Is it safe to bake the filling in the preheated oven for 30 minutes? The center should be mostly firm, with just a slight jiggle. What are the best baking times to bake a cake? I always insert a toothpick into the center to check for doneness – it should come out clean or with some scuffing. Is there a few moist crumbs attached?
Step 9: Cool Completely
Remove the bars from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan before frosting. This is important to prevent the frosting from melting. Once cooled, you can place the bars in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. What is the difference between slic When you chill, it makes them easier to cut and enhances the flavors.
Step 10: Prepare Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Set aside. Add more milk, 1 teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. The glaze should be pourable but not too thin. I like to use a fork to drizzle the glaze over the bars. I love the rustic look.
Step 11: Drizzle Glaze and Slice
Do not overdo glaze on cooled bars. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before slicing into squares. Use a sharp knife to cut the bars into even pieces. Serve immediately and enjoy! Strawberries Cream Magic Bars are best enjoyed fresh, but can also be stored in the refrigerator. Is there a refrigerator for later
What to Serve It With
These Strawberries Cream Magic Bars are so versatile, they can be served for just about any occasion! Here are some ideas:
- For Breakfast: Pair a bar with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a sweet start to your day. They’re surprisingly satisfying and not overly heavy.
- For Brunch: Serve the bars as part of a brunch spread alongside fresh fruit, yogurt, and pastries. They make a beautiful and delicious addition to any brunch table.
- As Dessert: These bars are the perfect after-dinner treat. Serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent experience.
- For Cozy Snacks: Enjoy a bar with a glass of milk or a cup of hot cocoa for a cozy and comforting snack. They’re perfect for movie nights or rainy days.
In my family, we often enjoy these bars as an afternoon treat during the summer months. I love to pack them in a picnic basket and take them to the park for a sweet and refreshing snack. They’re also a hit at potlucks and barbecues!
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Strawberries Cream Magic Bars
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks that will help you make the best Strawberries Cream Magic Bars possible:
- Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese: This is crucial for a smooth and creamy filling. If the cream cheese is too cold, it will be difficult to beat and may leave lumps in the filling. I usually take the cream cheese out of the refrigerator at least an hour before I start baking.
- Don’t Overmix the Filling: Overmixing can cause the strawberries to release too much juice and make the filling watery. Gently fold the strawberries into the cream cheese mixture until just combined.
- Bake Until Just Set: Overbaking will result in a dry and crumbly filling. Bake the bars until the filling is set and lightly golden brown on top. The center should be mostly firm, with just a slight jiggle.
- Let Cool Completely Before Frosting: This is important to prevent the frosting from melting and running. Let the bars cool completely in the pan before drizzling with glaze.
- Use Fresh, Ripe Strawberries: The flavor of the strawberries is a key component of this dessert, so use the best quality strawberries you can find. Look for berries that are bright red, plump, and fragrant.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Here’s how to store your Strawberries Cream Magic Bars to keep them fresh and delicious:
- Room Temperature: You can store the bars at room temperature for up to 2 days. Cover them tightly with plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.
- Refrigerator Storage: For longer storage, keep the bars in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Store them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.
- Freezer Instructions: These bars can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. I recommend freezing them without the glaze, then adding the glaze after thawing.
- Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning to store the bars for more than a day, it’s best to wait to add the glaze until just before serving. This will prevent the glaze from becoming sticky or dissolving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
These Strawberries Cream Magic Bars are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! They are incredibly easy to make, bursting with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dessert for a weeknight dinner or a show-stopping treat for a special celebration, these bars are sure to impress. If you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other bar recipes for more delicious and easy dessert ideas. Happy baking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out! Don’t forget to leave a comment and rating below, and share your own variations of this recipe. I love seeing what you come up with!
Strawberries Cream Magic Bars
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup Graham cracker crumbs
- 0.5 cup Sugar
- 0.5 cup Butter, melted
- 1 cup Cream Cheese, softened
- 0.5 cup Powdered Sugar
- 1 cup Chopped Strawberries
- 1 cup Marshmallows
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into the bottom of a greased 9x13 inch baking pan.
- In a separate bowl, beat together cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Spread over the crust.
- Top with chopped strawberries and marshmallows. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and marshmallows are melted.
- Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
