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Strawberry Cream Dream Bars with Strawberry Creamsicle Flavor Extract
Dolce Flav
Rated 5.0 stars by 1 users
Category
Strawberry Creamsicle
Author:
Dolce Flav
Servings
12
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
These Strawberry Cream Dream Bars with Strawberry Creamsicle Flavor Extract combine a crunchy cookie crust with a velvety creamsicle-flavored cheesecake layer. The oilsoluble extract delivers intense strawberry‑vanilla nostalgia with just a teaspoon. After blending a buttery crust and pressing it into the pan, a whipped cream cheese filling is mixed with powdered sugar and flavored extract—then spread over the crust, chilled until firm, and topped with fresh strawberries for a bright, refreshing finish.
Ingredients
Crust:
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2½ cups graham cracker crumbs or similar cookie crumbs
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6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
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¼ cup granulated sugar
Creamsicle‑Infused Filling:
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8 oz (about 225 g) cream cheese, softened
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1 cup heavy cream, chilled
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1 cup powdered sugar
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1–1½ teaspoons oil‑soluble Strawberry Creamsicle Flavor Extract (highly concentrated)
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Optional: ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Topping (optional):
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½–1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
Directions
Make the crust:
Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch (or similar size) baking pan lined with parchment. Set aside.Prepare the creamy filling:
In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Gently fold whipped cream into the cream cheese, then stir in the oil‑soluble Strawberry Creamsicle Flavor Extract (and vanilla, if using) until evenly combined.Assemble & chill:
Spread the creamsicle‑flavored filling over the prepared crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Optionally, arrange sliced strawberries on top. Chill in the refrigerator until fully set—about 2 hours or overnight for best texture.Serve:
Once chilled and firm, lift the bars from the pan via parchment overhang, slice into 12 pieces, and serve chilled. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Recipe Note
10 FAQ – Strawberry Cream Dream Bars
What’s special about oil‑soluble Strawberry Creamsicle extract?
It’s highly concentrated and blends smoothly into fat‑based recipes like this cheesecake layer, delivering rich strawberry‑vanilla flavor with minimal usage.
Can I use regular (water‑based) strawberry extract instead?
Yes—but flavor may be weaker and may not blend as evenly. You might need more extract, but the oilsoluble type gives better results in creamy batters.
Can I make this recipe dairy‑free?
Substitute cream cheese with vegan alternative and use coconut or almond cream to replicate the creamy texture.
How long will the bars stay fresh?
Store refrigerated in an airtight container—best within 3–4 days.
Can I freeze these bars?
Yes—freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Why do the bars need chilling time?
Chilling helps firm up the cheesecake layer and lets the flavors meld—crucial for achieving a proper set and flavor development.
Can I skip the crust and make a no‑bake version?
You could—use a silicone pan or skip crust entirely—but the textural contrast makes these bars special.
How do I make the bars easier to slice cleanly?
Chill thoroughly, then use a sharp knife dipped in hot water (and wiped clean) between cuts for neat edges.
Can I add a swirl or topping?
Yes—consider drizzling strawberry jam, adding a swirl of whipped cream, or sprinkling freeze‑dried strawberry powder for visual appeal.
What other recipes work well with this extract?
It’s also great in buttercream, cookies, frostings, and drinkables like smoothies—adding creamsicle flavor with just a few drops.