Description
Delight in these refreshing no-bake strawberry cheesecake bars that combine a gluten-free graham cracker crust with a creamy, dairy-free strawberry filling. Made with wholesome ingredients like dates, coconut oil, and maple syrup, these bars are perfect for a cool dessert that requires no oven time and caters to gluten-free and dairy-free diets.
Ingredients
Crust
- 4.25 ounces gluten-free graham-style crackers
- 3 dates, pitted
- 3 tablespoons coconut oil
Filling
- 16 ounces dairy-free cream cheese
- 10 ounces frozen strawberries
- ½ cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- Fresh strawberry slices
- Sweetener of choice (honey recommended)
Instructions
- Make the crust: Add the gluten-free graham-style crackers, pitted dates, and coconut oil to a food processor. Pulse until the mixture resembles a dense sandy texture with no large chunks remaining.
- Form the crust: Transfer the crust mixture into the bottom of an 8-inch square pan lined with parchment paper. Spread it evenly across the base and tap it down firmly with the bottom of a glass. Refrigerate to let the crust firm up.
- Prepare the filling: In a food processor or high-speed blender, combine the dairy-free cream cheese, frozen strawberries, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Process until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy, about one minute.
- Assemble and freeze: Pour the smooth cheesecake filling over the prepared crust. Place the pan in the freezer and let it freeze for a minimum of 6 hours, allowing the bars to set properly.
- Unmold the cheesecake bars: Remove the cheesecake from the freezer and lift it out of the pan while still frozen to maintain its shape.
- Allow to thaw: Let the bars sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to an hour before serving, depending on how long they were frozen. If frozen overnight, it’s best to thaw them in the refrigerator for about 3 hours.
- Serve: Top the cheesecake bars with fresh strawberry slices drizzled with your preferred sweetener such as honey. Enjoy your refreshing and dairy-free strawberry cheesecake bars!
Notes
- Ensure the crust is pressed firmly to avoid crumbling when slicing.
- For best texture, use frozen strawberries in the filling.
- Allow proper thawing time for easy slicing and optimal taste.
- This recipe is suitable for gluten-free and dairy-free diets.
- Store leftover bars in the freezer to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American