Raspberry Cheesecake Bars

Name: Raspberry Cheesecake Bars
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs; 5 tablespoons (70g) unsalted butter, melted; ¼ cup granulated sugar; ¼ teaspoon salt; 24 ounces (680g) cream cheese, softened to room temperature; ¾ cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract; ¼ cup sour cream; 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon cornstarch

Author: Lora

Published: October 16, 2025

Print Recipe

Introduction to Raspberry Cheesecake Bars

Hello world, of sweet teeth! Life is sheer madness, and if you are like me, then you definitely know it. At one moment you are tackling work deadlines, family events for the kids and in a blink of an eye you need to come up with a yummy dessert! This is where those irresistible Raspberry Cheesecake Bars come into play! A quick ‘pick your poison’ solution marrying creamy cheesecake and sweet-tart raspberries. So either surprise your loved ones, or more so, treat yourself after a hard day’s work. If you haven’t had these bars, trust me, your life is incomplete.

Why You’ll Love This Raspberry Cheesecake Bars

These Raspberry Cheesecake Bars are pure bliss packed in a neat square! They’re easy to whip up, making them perfect for busy moms or professionals like us. You don’t need culinary degrees to impress, just a few simple ingredients. Plus, the delightful blend of creamy cheesecake and tart raspberries will have everyone asking for seconds. You’ll be amazed at how fast they disappear!

Ingredients for Raspberry Cheesecake Bars

Gathering the right ingredients for your Raspberry Cheesecake Bars is a breeze and won’t break the bank! Here’s what you’ll need:

Graham cracker crumbs: These form the buttery crust. You can crush up whole crackers or buy pre-made crumbs to save time.
Unsalted butter: This rich ingredient binds the crust together. Opt for unsalted to control the saltiness.
Granulated sugar: Sweetness is essential! You’ll use this in the crust and the cheesecake filling.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances the flavors of everything in the recipe.
Cream cheese: The star of your cheesecake! Make sure it’s softened to ensure a smooth texture.
Eggs: These help bind everything together and give the bars a beautiful, creamy texture.
Vanilla extract: A splash elevates the flavor; always stick to pure vanilla for the best taste.
Sour cream: This adds creaminess and a slight tang, making your bars irresistibly delicious.
Fresh or frozen raspberries: Choose whichever you prefer! Both provide that vibrant color and luscious flavor.
Lemon juice: A little acidity brightens up the raspberry swirl and enhances the overall taste.
Cornstarch: This thickening agent helps the raspberry mixture hold its shape, ensuring a beautiful swirl in your bars.

For exact quantities, don’t forget to check the bottom of this article, where you’ll find everything laid out for easy printing. Happy baking!

How to Make Raspberry Cheesecake Bars

Making Raspberry Cheesecake Bars is as enjoyable as devouring them! With each step, you’ll see how simple it is to create a dessert that delights everyone. So, let’s get our hands a little dirty in the kitchen and bring these creamy creations to life!

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

First things first, let’s get that crust ready! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and a pinch of salt. The aroma of butter will make your mouth water!

Now, press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking pan. This step is crucial! A well-packed crust means every bite will be delightful. Bake it for 8-10 minutes or until you see a light golden brown. Let it cool slightly while you work on the next step.

Step 2: Make the Raspberry Swirl

Now for the fun part—let’s create that scrumptious raspberry swirl! In a small saucepan, combine fresh or frozen raspberries, sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat while stirring constantly to avoid any burning. This is a great time to let the aroma fill your kitchen!

After about 5-7 minutes, the raspberries will break down, creating a delightful mixture. Once thickened, remove it from heat and let it cool slightly. If you want a smoother swirl, strain it to remove the seeds. But honestly, I enjoy the texture!

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

Let’s move on to creating that creamy filling! In a large bowl, add softened cream cheese and beat it with an electric mixer until it’s smooth and creamy. You don’t want any lumps; nobody likes a lumpy cheesecake.

Gradually add sugar, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the eggs one at a time, making sure to beat well after each one. Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream until everything is just combined. This is where the magic happens, and your filling will start to look luscious!

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Time to bring it all together! Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the cooled crust. It’s like a cozy blanket for the crust! Now, spoon dollops of that gorgeous raspberry swirl over the top.

Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl the raspberry into the cheesecake filling. It doesn’t have to be perfect! Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. This is when the kitchen smells so incredible that you might have trouble waiting!

Step 5: Cool and Chill

After baking, turn off the oven and crack the oven door slightly. Let those cheesecake bars cool in the oven for about 1 hour. This gentle cooling helps prevent cracks.

Once cooled, let them sit at room temperature until they’re completely cool. Cover the baking pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours—or preferably overnight. This chilling step really enhances the flavors, trust me!

Step 6: Cut and Serve

Finally, the moment you’ve been waiting for! Remove the bars from the refrigerator and cut them into squares or rectangles. Serve them chilled, plain, or fancy them up with whipped cream and fresh raspberries. You can’t go wrong!

And there you have it—your own batch of heavenly Raspberry Cheesecake Bars. I can already envision the smiles on your loved ones’ faces as they take their first bite!

Tips for Success

Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth filling.
Press the crust into the pan firmly to avoid a crumbly base.
Don’t overbake! The center should be slightly jiggly for the perfect texture.
Chill the bars overnight for the best flavor and texture.
Use fresh raspberries if possible for vibrant color and taste!

Equipment Needed

Baking pan: A 9×13 inch pan works best. If you don’t have one, any similar-sized baking dish will do.
Medium and large mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients. You can also use any large bowl you already own.
Electric mixer: Makes beating the cream cheese easy, but a whisk will work in a pinch.
Small saucepan: Perfect for making the raspberry swirl. Any small pot will suffice.

Variations

Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars: Add melted chocolate to the filling for a rich twist. Simply melt a bit of chocolate and fold it in before pouring onto the crust.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute graham cracker crumbs with almond flour mixed with a little cocoa powder for a chocolatey gluten-free crust.
Fruit Swirls: Experiment with other fruits like blueberries or strawberries to create a colorful and flavorful variety!
Dairy-Free Version: Use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream for the filling to make it suitable for lactose intolerant friends.
Minty Fresh: Add a few drops of mint extract to the cheesecake filling for a refreshing mint and raspberry combination.

Serving Suggestions

Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream elevates each bite to a new level of indulgence.
Fresh Berries: Serve with a handful of fresh raspberries or strawberries for a colorful presentation.
Mint Leaves: Garnish with mint leaves for a refreshing touch.
Coffee: Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
Elegant Plating: Arrange bars on a pretty platter for a special occasion and watch them disappear!

FAQs about Raspberry Cheesecake Bars

Can I use frozen raspberries for my Raspberry Cheesecake Bars?
Absolutely! Frozen raspberries work just as well as fresh ones. They’re convenient and often more affordable. Just remember to thaw and drain them a bit before using to avoid excess moisture.

How can I store leftover Raspberry Cheesecake Bars?
To store your delectable bars, simply cover the baking pan with plastic wrap or transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to a week. They’ll taste just as amazing a few days later!

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Definitely! These bars are perfect for making ahead. In fact, chilling them overnight enhances their flavor and texture. Just be sure to keep them stored properly in the refrigerator!

What can I substitute for sour cream?
If you prefer, you can use Greek yogurt as a tangy and creamy substitute for sour cream. It won’t change the flavor much, and it adds a lovely richness to your cheesecake.

How do I ensure my Raspberry Cheesecake Bars are smooth and creamy?
Make sure to beat your cream cheese until it’s super smooth before adding other ingredients. Also, bring it to room temperature to avoid lumps. A little tender love and care will make them perfect!

Final Thoughts

These Raspberry Cheesecake Bars are more than just a dessert; they’re a sweet escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Each bite is a reminder of how wonderful it feels to create something delicious that your family will love. I cherish the moments spent in the kitchen, transforming simple ingredients into a dessert that brings joy. Plus, it’s always a thrill to see everyone’s faces light up when they taste them! So, roll up your sleeves and dive into this delightful recipe—you won’t regret it, and your loved ones will thank you!