Raspberry Cheesecake Bars

Raspberry Cheesecake Bars are a delightful and elegant dessert, combining the rich creaminess of cheesecake with the bright, tart flavor of raspberries. These bars are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual gathering or a more formal celebration. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth cheesecake filling, and a vibrant raspberry swirl, this dessert is as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Raspberry Cheesecake Bars offer a harmonious balance of flavors and textures that make them irresistible. The richness of the cream cheese is perfectly offset by the tang of the raspberries, while the graham cracker crust adds a pleasant crunch. They are easier to make than a full cheesecake and are ideal for serving to a crowd. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is approachable and rewarding.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Graham cracker crumbs

• Granulated sugar

• Unsalted butter, melted

• Cream cheese, softened

• Eggs

• Vanilla extract

• Sour cream

• All-purpose flour

• Fresh or frozen raspberries

• Lemon juice

• Powdered sugar (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.

3. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

4. Mix in vanilla extract, sour cream, and flour until fully combined and smooth.

5. Pour the cheesecake filling over the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly.

6. In a small bowl, mash the raspberries with lemon juice. Swirl the raspberry mixture into the cheesecake batter using a knife or toothpick to create a marbled effect.

7. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is set and only slightly jiggles when shaken.

8. Let the bars cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.

9. Once chilled, lift the bars out using the parchment paper and cut into squares. Dust with powdered sugar if desired before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 16 bars.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 35–40 minutes
Cooling and chilling time: 3–4 hours

Variations

• Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars: Add a chocolate ganache layer on top before chilling.

• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.

• Mixed Berry Swirl: Substitute a mix of berries like blueberries, blackberries, and strawberries for a different flavor profile.

• Nut Crust: Use finely ground almonds or pecans instead of graham crackers for a nutty variation.

• Citrus Twist: Add orange or lime zest to the filling for a fresh, citrusy note.

storage/reheating

Store Raspberry Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
To freeze, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
These bars are best enjoyed cold and do not require reheating.

FAQs

What type of raspberries should I use for these bars?

You can use either fresh or frozen raspberries. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before swirling them into the cheesecake batter.

Can I make these cheesecake bars ahead of time?

Yes, these bars are perfect for making in advance. Prepare them a day before and store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

How do I know when the cheesecake bars are done baking?

The bars are done when the edges are set and the center jiggles slightly. Avoid overbaking to maintain a creamy texture.

Can I use a different fruit instead of raspberries?

Absolutely. Blueberries, strawberries, or blackberries work well in this recipe. Just be sure to mash and swirl them similarly to raspberries.

Why did my cheesecake bars crack?

Cracking can occur from overbaking or rapid cooling. To minimize this, do not overmix the batter and allow the bars to cool slowly.

How can I make cleaner cuts when slicing the bars?

Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wipe it clean between cuts to achieve neat, clean slices.

Can I use a different crust instead of graham crackers?

Yes, you can use crushed cookies like vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits as an alternative crust.

Is it necessary to use sour cream in the filling?

Sour cream adds tanginess and a smooth texture. If needed, you can substitute with Greek yogurt.

Can I make this recipe without flour?

Yes, but the texture may be slightly less firm. You can use cornstarch as an alternative thickener.

How do I prevent the raspberry swirl from sinking?

Gently swirl the raspberry mixture on top without overmixing it into the batter to keep it from sinking.

Conclusion

Raspberry Cheesecake Bars are a luxurious yet simple dessert that beautifully blends the richness of cheesecake with the bright, tangy flavor of raspberries. With their eye-catching marbled appearance and delectable taste, these bars are sure to impress guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. Perfect for any occasion, they are a must-try for any dessert enthusiast.