Red, White, and Blue Cheesecake Bars

Celebrate patriotic holidays—or any festive occasion—with these eye-catching Red, White, and Blue Cheesecake Bars. They’re the perfect blend of creamy richness, fresh berry flavor, and colorful flair that makes them a hit at barbecues, Fourth of July parties, Memorial Day picnics, and beyond. Not only are these bars delicious, but they’re also easy to make and slice ahead of time, making them ideal for serving a crowd.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cheesecake bars offer:

• A creamy vanilla cheesecake filling with a graham cracker crust
  
• Bursts of juicy blueberries and strawberries
  
• A visually striking red, white, and blue theme
  
• Make-ahead convenience
  
• Simple ingredients found at any grocery store
  

Let’s dive into the details!

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
  
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  

For the Filling:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  
• ½ cup sour cream
  
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
  
• 2 large eggs
  
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  

For the Topping:

• ¾ cup fresh blueberries
  
• ¾ cup sliced fresh strawberries
  
• Optional: whipped cream, edible stars, or colored sprinkles for decoration
  

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
   
2. In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
   
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
   
4. Bake for 10 minutes, then let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
   

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and fluffy.
   
2. Add sour cream, vanilla extract, and cornstarch. Mix until well combined.
   
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing gently to avoid incorporating too much air.
   

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the cheesecake batter evenly over the cooled crust.
   
2. Sprinkle the blueberries and sliced strawberries over the top.
   
3. Gently press the berries down so they nestle slightly into the filling.
   
4. Bake for 35–40 minutes or until the center is just set.
   
5. Allow to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight).
   

Step 4: Serve

1. Lift the bars from the pan using the parchment paper.
   
2. Slice into squares or rectangles.
   
3. Optionally top with whipped cream or festive sprinkles just before serving.
   

Tips for Success

• Use room temperature ingredients to avoid lumps in the filling.
  
• Don’t overmix the batter once the eggs are added to prevent cracks.
  
• Refrigerate the bars fully to allow the flavors to develop and the texture to set.
  
• Customize the toppings—raspberries and blackberries are also great patriotic-colored options.
  

FAQs

Can I use frozen berries?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before using to prevent excess moisture.

Can these bars be made gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use gluten-free graham crackers or cookies for the crust.

How long do these cheesecake bars last?

They stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container.

Can I freeze them?

Yes, freeze the sliced bars in a single layer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

What other occasions can I make these for?

They’re great for Labor Day, Veteran’s Day, election night parties—or just as a fun dessert for summer gatherings.

Conclusion

Red, White, and Blue Cheesecake Bars are a festive, flavorful dessert that combines visual appeal with creamy indulgence. Whether you’re planning a patriotic celebration or just want a simple yet striking treat, these cheesecake bars check every box. They’re easy to prepare, easy to serve, and even easier to love.

Try them out, and let your dessert table shine in full color!