Chocolate Strawberry Pie Bars

Name: Chocolate Strawberry Pie Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; ⅓ cup granulated sugar; 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; ¼ cup powdered sugar

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Chocolate Strawberry Pie Bars whenever I need a delightful dessert. The combination of rich chocolate and sweet strawberries is simply irresistible! Each bar offers a perfect balance of textures, and they always manage to impress guests at gatherings. I enjoy preparing these with a buttery crust that's easy to make. In just about an hour, you can create this delicious treat, leaving you plenty of time to enjoy the delicious results with family and friends.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-23T21:21:28.212Z

When I first experimented with making Chocolate Strawberry Pie Bars, I was amazed by how well the flavors complemented each other. The chocolate layer is rich and fudgy, while the strawberry layer adds a delightful freshness. I found that using fresh strawberries versus frozen really makes a difference in both taste and texture.

One tip I discovered is allowing the bars to set in the fridge for at least an hour before slicing. This ensures cleaner cuts and enhances the overall presentation. Trust me, the wait is absolutely worth it!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Decadent chocolate ganache with a fresh strawberry layer
Perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying at home
Easy to make with simple ingredients

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to the rich, decadent flavor of these Chocolate Strawberry Pie Bars lies in the quality of the dark chocolate you choose. Opt for a chocolate with at least 60% cocoa content, as it provides a robust flavor that beautifully complements the sweetness of the strawberries. The chocolate ganache, made with heavy cream, should be heated gently to avoid scorching. Keep an eye on it, stirring regularly until it simmers, just before adding the chocolate chips for a smooth consistency.

The crust is a crucial element that sets the foundation for your bars. Graham cracker crumbs not only add a sweet flavor but also contribute to the texture of the crust. If you don’t have graham crackers, crushed digestive biscuits or even vanilla wafer cookies can serve as great alternatives. Ensure you press the mixture firmly into the baking pan to create a cohesive base that will hold the filling once baked.

Techniques for Success

When layering the strawberries, uniformity is key for aesthetic appeal and even flavor distribution. Make sure to hull and slice your strawberries evenly, aiming for slices that are about 1/4 inch thick. This not only provides a lovely presentation but ensures each bar has the perfect fruit-to-chocolate ratio. For added freshness, consider macerating the strawberries in a little powdered sugar beforehand to enhance their sweetness and create a bit of syrup that will seep into the ganache once assembled.

Chilling the pie bars is not just for setting them; it enhances the flavors as well. Allowing them to chill for at least one hour helps the strawberries to meld with the chocolate ganache, resulting in a harmonious flavor profile. If you find your bars are not setting properly, they may need a bit more time in the fridge. I recommend covering them to prevent the strawberries from drying out during this phase.

Ingredients

For the crust and filling

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
⅓ cup granulated sugar
1 cup dark chocolate chips
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
¼ cup powdered sugar

Gather all your ingredients and let’s start baking!

Instructions

Prepare the crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Press this mixture into the bottom of a greased 9x9 inch baking pan. Bake for 10 minutes.

Make the chocolate filling

In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the dark chocolate chips. Stir until smooth and glossy.

Assemble the pie bars

Pour the chocolate mixture over the baked crust, then layer the sliced strawberries on top. Sprinkle powdered sugar over the strawberries for added sweetness.

Chill and set

Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the bars to set properly. Once set, slice into bars and serve.

Enjoy your homemade Chocolate Strawberry Pie Bars!

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, use ripe strawberries and allow the bars to chill longer if possible. Feel free to substitute with your favorite berries for variation.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Chocolate Strawberry Pie Bars are perfect for making ahead of time. In fact, they can be prepared up to three days in advance if stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just make sure to slice the bars only when ready to serve to maintain freshness. To prevent the strawberries from becoming soggy, place parchment paper between the bars and the container's lid if you anticipate storing them for longer periods.

If you want to freeze some bars, ensure they are properly wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in an airtight container. They can last up to a month in the freezer, though the texture might change slightly once thawed. To serve frozen, simply move them to the fridge for a few hours or let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before enjoying.

Serving Suggestions

These pie bars can be served solo, but elevating them can turn a simple dessert into a showstopper. Consider pairing them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. A drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of crushed nuts can also add texture and visual appeal.

For a more sophisticated twist, serve the bars with a citrusy berry coulis drizzled on top. The brightness of the coulis contrasts beautifully with the richness of the chocolate and the sweetness of the strawberries, enhancing the overall tasting experience. Don't forget to garnish each plate with a fresh mint leaf to add a pop of color and freshness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but keep in mind they may release more juice and affect the texture. Fresh strawberries are recommended for the best results.

→ How long can I store the bars?

These pie bars can be stored in the fridge for up to five days, or frozen for up to three months.

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark?

Absolutely! It will give a sweeter flavor, so adjust the sugar in the recipe if you prefer it less sweet.

→ Is it necessary to chill the bars before serving?

Chilling helps set the chocolate filling, making slicing easier and enhancing the bar's overall texture.