Raspberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Raspberry Cheesecake Bars are the perfect dessert when you want a blend of creamy cheesecake and the tart, fruity flavor of fresh raspberries. These bars are easy to make, portable, and great for any occasion—whether it’s a family gathering, a picnic, or a dinner party. This recipe is not only simple but also customizable, so you can add your personal touch. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make the perfect Raspberry Cheesecake Bars.

What are Raspberry Cheesecake Bars?

Raspberry Cheesecake Bars are a simplified version of traditional cheesecake, designed in bar form. They feature a buttery, crumbly crust, followed by a rich and creamy cheesecake filling, topped with fresh or jammed raspberries. These bars are a wonderful way to enjoy the smooth, decadent taste of cheesecake without the hassle of making a full-sized cake. The addition of raspberries provides a tangy, sweet contrast to the richness of the cheesecake, making each bite a refreshing treat.

Why You’ll Love This Raspberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe

• Quick and Easy to Make: Unlike traditional cheesecake, which requires baking in a springform pan, Raspberry Cheesecake Bars are baked in a regular baking dish, making the process faster and simpler.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These cheesecake bars are perfect for serving at picnics, potlucks, parties, or as a sweet snack.
• Portable and Individual Servings: Since these bars are cut into squares, they are easy to transport and serve, offering individual portions with no mess.
• Customizable: You can easily switch out raspberries for other berries, add a fruit compote, or even drizzle a chocolate sauce on top for extra indulgence.

Raspberry Cheesecake Bars Nutrition Table

Ingredients

o make Raspberry Cheesecake Bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuits)
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup sour cream

For the Raspberry Topping:

• 1 1/2 cups fresh raspberries (or raspberry jam)
• 2 tbsp sugar (for fresh raspberries)
• 1 tsp lemon juice (optional)

Equipment

• Mixing Bowls
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• 9×9-inch Baking Dish or 8×8-inch Square Pan
• Electric Mixer or Hand Mixer
• Spatula
• Whisk
• Graham Cracker Crumb Crusher or Food Processor
• Knife or Bench Scraper
• Parchment Paper
• Cooling Rack
• Oven

How to Make Raspberry Cheesecake Bars: Step-by-Step Guide

Here are the following steps…

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving a bit of an overhang for easy removal of the bars later.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

1. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is evenly combined and resembles wet sand.
2. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form an even layer.
3. Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, or until it is lightly golden. Remove it from the oven and set it aside to cool.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until fully combined.
4. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust, spreading it into an even layer.

Step 4: Add the Raspberry Topping

1. If you’re using fresh raspberries, sprinkle them over the cheesecake layer. If using raspberry jam, gently swirl it into the cheesecake filling using a knife for a marbled effect.
2. You can lightly press the raspberries into the cheesecake to ensure they bake in evenly.

Step 5: Bake the Bars

1. Bake the cheesecake bars for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden. The edges may start to pull away from the sides of the dish.
2. Let the bars cool in the dish at room temperature for about 1 hour, then transfer them to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares.

Tips for the Perfect Raspberry Cheesecake Bars

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth and creamy filling.
• Don’t Overmix: When adding the eggs, mix just until incorporated to avoid overworking the batter, which can lead to cracks.
• Chill Thoroughly: These bars need to chill for at least 2 hours (preferably overnight) to set properly and achieve the perfect texture.
• Raspberry Jam: If fresh raspberries are not in season, raspberry jam is a great substitute. Swirl it into the filling for a jammy topping.

Popular Variations of Raspberry Cheesecake Bars

• Mixed Berry Cheesecake Bars: Use a mix of fresh berries such as strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries for a variety of flavors.
• Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars: Add a layer of melted chocolate or a drizzle of chocolate sauce over the cheesecake filling for an extra indulgent treat.
• Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake Bars: Add a touch of lemon zest or lemon juice to the cheesecake filling to enhance the tangy flavors of the raspberries.

If you loved our Strawberry Shortcake Recipe, you’ll also enjoy these delicious Raspberry Cheesecake Bars for another fruity and creamy dessert that’s perfect for any occasion!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are the most asking question about Raspberry Cheesecake Bars.

Q1: Can I use frozen raspberries for this recipe?

Yes! You can use frozen raspberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the cheesecake mixture to prevent excess moisture.

Q2: How can I make these bars gluten-free?

You can substitute the graham crackers with gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or use almond flour for the crust.

Q3: Can I prepare Raspberry Cheesecake Bars ahead of time?

Yes! These bars can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator for optimal freshness.

Q4: Can I use another fruit instead of raspberries?

Absolutely! You can replace raspberries with strawberries, blueberries, or even blackberries depending on your preference.