These Raspberry Cheesecake Bars are the perfect balance of creamy richness and tangy berry flavor. The luscious cheesecake layer sits atop a buttery graham cracker crust and is marbled with fresh raspberries and sweet jam for an extra pop of flavor. Ideal for summer gatherings or a cozy afternoon treat, these bars not only taste fantastic but also look visually stunning. They are an excellent dessert option for any occasion, and their creamy texture paired with the fresh, fruity raspberry swirl will surely leave your guests asking for more.
Full recipe:
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Ingredients:
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1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
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1/4 cup sugar
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1/2 cup butter, melted
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3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
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1 cup sugar
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3 large eggs
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2 teaspoons vanilla extract
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1/4 cup sour cream
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1 cup fresh raspberries
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1/4 cup raspberry jam
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
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In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press this mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
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In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream until combined.
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Pour the cheesecake mixture over the prepared crust, spreading it out evenly.
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In a small bowl, mash the fresh raspberries slightly, then drop spoonfuls of raspberry jam over the cheesecake layer.
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Use a knife or skewer to swirl the raspberries and jam into the cheesecake for a marbled effect.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set and slightly firm.
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Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
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Once chilled, cut into bars and serve. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Kcal: 230 kcal | Servings: 16 servings
A Brief History of Raspberry Cheesecake Bars
Cheesecake itself has a long and storied history, dating back to Ancient Greece. While the modern version has evolved over centuries, one of the most beloved ways to serve it today is in bar form. Raspberry cheesecake bars bring a fresh twist by incorporating one of the most popular and beloved berries. Raspberries, which are known for their bright, slightly tart flavor, pair perfectly with the creamy filling of cheesecake, creating an unforgettable treat. With their beautiful presentation and balance of flavors, raspberry cheesecake bars are often a go-to dessert in both casual and special occasions.
Why Raspberry Cheesecake Bars Are the Best
There are several reasons why these Raspberry Cheesecake Bars stand out as a top-tier dessert:
- Easy to Make: Unlike traditional cheesecakes, which require precise techniques and long baking times, these bars are relatively simple to prepare. The combination of a graham cracker crust, creamy filling, and fruit topping is easy enough for beginners, yet impressive enough for seasoned bakers.
- Customizable: While this recipe calls for fresh raspberries, you can easily swap in other fruits depending on your preference or what’s in season. Strawberries, blueberries, and even peaches work wonderfully in this recipe, offering endless variations.
- Perfect Balance of Flavors: The creamy, velvety texture of the cheesecake filling is perfectly balanced by the slight tang of the fresh raspberries. The crumble topping adds a bit of crunch and richness, giving each bite a complex and satisfying texture.
- Portable and Portion-Controlled: By turning cheesecake into bars, you get the classic cheesecake experience without needing to cut large slices. These bars are also much easier to transport to parties, picnics, or gatherings, making them a great choice for busy bakers.
- Ideal for Any Occasion: Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, throwing a dinner party, or simply indulging in a sweet treat on a regular day, these raspberry cheesecake bars fit the bill. Their impressive look and delicious taste make them perfect for serving to guests or enjoying with family.
Nutritional Benefits of Raspberry Cheesecake Bars
While cheesecake bars are undeniably a rich dessert, they do offer some benefits when made with fresh fruit. Raspberries, in particular, are an excellent source of antioxidants and dietary fiber, which can contribute to overall health. They also contain Vitamin C, which is essential for immune function and skin health. Although these bars are not a health food, choosing fresh fruit as a topping adds a touch of nutrition to your indulgence.
The graham cracker crust is simple, but you could opt for gluten-free crackers if needed, making this recipe adaptable for those with gluten sensitivities. The richness of the cream cheese provides a good dose of calcium and fat, but it’s important to enjoy these in moderation, as they are still a calorie-dense dessert.
How to Achieve the Perfect Raspberry Cheesecake Bars
To ensure your cheesecake bars turn out perfectly every time, there are a few key tips to follow:
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: The cream cheese and eggs should be at room temperature before you start mixing. This helps ensure a smooth and lump-free cheesecake filling.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the cheesecake filling can lead to cracks during baking. Be sure to mix only until combined for a smooth texture that bakes evenly.
- Check for Doneness: You can check for doneness by looking for a golden crumble topping and a set center. If you’re unsure, use a food thermometer – the center should reach about 150°F-155°F.
- Cool and Chill: Allow the bars to cool at room temperature, and then refrigerate them for at least 1-2 hours before cutting. This ensures they firm up and are easier to slice.
- Adjust for Fruit Moisture: If you use very juicy fruit, such as strawberries or blueberries, be sure to reduce the amount slightly to prevent the filling from becoming too runny. For raspberries, it’s best to use fresh ones rather than frozen to maintain the texture.
Storage and Freezing Raspberry Cheesecake Bars
Raspberry cheesecake bars are best when enjoyed fresh, but they also store very well. To store, place them in an airtight container in the fridge, where they will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. After allowing the bars to cool completely, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Variations of Raspberry Cheesecake Bars
While this recipe is a delicious classic, there are numerous ways to customize these cheesecake bars to your personal taste:
- Chocolate Crust: For a more decadent treat, use crushed Oreo cookies instead of graham crackers for the crust. The chocolatey base pairs wonderfully with the tart raspberries.
- Different Fruits: Feel free to swap out raspberries for other fruits like strawberries, blackberries, or even tropical fruits like mango or pineapple for a unique twist.
- Mini Cheesecake Bars: If you’re hosting a party, you can make mini versions of these bars in a mini muffin tin, which would make them perfect bite-sized portions.
Raspberry Cheesecake Bars for Every Season
Though perfect for summer when raspberries are in season, raspberry cheesecake bars are a treat you can enjoy all year round. In the winter, you can use frozen raspberries and still achieve a delicious result. You can even use canned raspberry pie filling or other berry compotes for a quick and easy topping during off-seasons.
Conclusion
Raspberry Cheesecake Bars are a delightful dessert that combines the richness of cheesecake with the fresh, vibrant flavor of raspberries. The addition of a buttery graham cracker crust and a sweet crumble topping elevates the dish, making it irresistible with every bite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, these bars are the perfect choice. Not only are they easy to make, but they also offer a satisfying combination of creamy and fruity flavors that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.