Imagine a dessert so irresistibly creamy, so beautifully adorned with vibrant fresh fruits, that it transforms an ordinary moment into a gourmet experience. These Fresh Fruit Cream Cheese Bars are not just a dessert—they're a culinary masterpiece that combines the rich, velvety texture of cream cheese with the bright, natural sweetness of seasonal fruits. Perfect for summer gatherings, weekend brunches, or when you simply want to treat yourself to something extraordinary, these bars are about to become your new favorite no-bake sensation.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Fresh fruits (strawberries, blueberries, etc.)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and softened unsalted butter. Mix until the mixture becomes crumbly and starts to hold together.
- Press the flour mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, creating a firm and compact crust layer.
- Bake the crust for 15-18 minutes until the edges are light golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature.
- In a separate mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy using an electric mixer.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the cream cheese. Mix until well combined and the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled crust, ensuring a smooth and uniform layer.
- Wash and prepare your chosen fresh fruits. Slice strawberries, or keep blueberries whole, depending on your preference.
- Arrange the fresh fruits decoratively on top of the cream cheese layer, covering the surface completely or in a pattern.
- Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours to allow the cream cheese layer to set and the flavors to meld together.
- Once chilled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang and cut into 12 even squares.
- Serve chilled and store any remaining bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Tips
- Ensure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for smoother mixing and easier spreading.
- For a more stable crust, press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan using the back of a measuring cup.
- Choose fruits that are ripe but firm to prevent excess moisture from making the bars soggy.
- For a more decorative presentation, consider using a mix of different colored fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi.
- Chill the bars thoroughly before cutting to get clean, precise squares.
- For added flavor, you can sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar or add a drizzle of honey just before serving.
- Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry for clean, smooth cuts.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
