Raspberry Cheesecake Bars

Name: Raspberry Cheesecake Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 16 bars
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; ½ cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 1 ½ cups fresh raspberries

Highlighted under: Sweet Ideas

When I first tackled making Raspberry Cheesecake Bars, I fell in love with the vibrant colors and the creamy texture of the filling mixed with the tartness of the raspberries. I was amazed at how these delightful bars managed to be both refreshing and indulgent at the same time. With a buttery crust and a smooth cheesecake layer, they became an instant favorite in my kitchen. Plus, they are surprisingly easy to prepare, making them perfect for gatherings or enjoying as a personal treat.

Created by

Marigold Pearson

Last updated on 2026-01-08T14:07:36.927Z

Creating Raspberry Cheesecake Bars was a delightful experience for me, as I experimented with different ways to incorporate fresh fruit into a classic recipe. The key to achieving a perfect balance of flavors was to use high-quality cream cheese and ripe raspberries, which brought out the best in each other. I discovered that a touch of lemon zest in the filling not only brightened the flavor but also enhanced the overall freshness of the dessert.

While testing the baking times, I found that letting the bars cool completely before slicing made all the difference in achieving clean edges. I recommend refrigerating them for a few hours if you can wait that long! It's hard not to sneak a bite before serving, but patience pays off when the flavors meld beautifully.

Why You'll Love These Raspberry Cheesecake Bars
A perfect blend of creamy cheesecake and tart raspberries
No-bake option makes them convenient for any occasion
Beautiful presentation, perfect for impressing guests

Understanding Your Ingredients

The choice of cream cheese is crucial for achieving the right texture in your Raspberry Cheesecake Bars. Opt for a full-fat cream cheese for a rich, creamy filling that holds its shape well. Low-fat or whipped cream cheese can affect the structure and lead to a filling that is too soft or overly airy. For best results, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature to create a smooth batter without lumps.

Using fresh raspberries not only boosts the flavor profile but also enhances the visual appeal of your bars. While frozen raspberries can be used in a pinch, they tend to be more watery when thawed, which could affect the consistency of your filling. If using frozen, be sure to drain them thoroughly and add a bit more sugar to offset any tartness.

Tips for Perfect Baking

When it comes to baking the cheesecake filling, keep a close eye on the edges. You want the filling to have set, glancing towards a slight jiggle in the center when you remove it from the oven. This indicates that it will firm up nicely as it cools. Overbaking can lead to cracks on the surface, which could impact the final presentation of your bars.

For a cleaner cut, allow your bars to chill completely after refrigeration. It’s best to refrigerate for at least two hours, but overnight is ideal. This allows the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up, making slicing easier. Use a sharp knife, dipping it in hot water and wiping it dry between cuts for clean, crisp edges.

Ingredients

For the Crust

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
¼ cup granulated sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling

16 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 ½ cups fresh raspberries

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Prepare the Crust

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

Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest. Gently fold in the fresh raspberries.

Bake the Bars

Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and spread it evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until the center is set. Remove from the oven and let cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an added touch, consider drizzling a raspberry sauce on top just before serving. Using a warm knife for slicing will help achieve cleaner cuts.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Raspberry Cheesecake Bars with a dusting of powdered sugar on top for an elegant finish, or drizzle with a homemade raspberry coulis for an extra pop of flavor. Pair them with fresh whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if you're feeling indulgent, enhancing the creamy experience with rich, sweet complements.

For a touch of elegance, consider garnishing with additional raspberries and a sprig of mint. This not only makes the dessert visually appealing but also adds a refreshing element that balances the richness of the cheesecake.

Storage and Variations

These cheesecake bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week, making them a great make-ahead dessert. Just be sure to keep them covered to maintain their freshness. If you'd like to freeze them, wrap each bar in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before serving for best texture.

Feel free to experiment with different types of fruit! Blueberries, strawberries, or even a mix of your favorite berries can work beautifully in this recipe. If you're aiming for a more tropical flavor, try adding grated coconut or even a layer of mango puree on top of the cheesecake filling before baking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen raspberries?

Yes, you can substitute frozen raspberries, but be sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before adding them to the filling.

→ How should I store leftover bars?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make these cheesecake bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars can be made a day in advance, making them perfect for gatherings.

→ What can I use instead of graham crackers?

You can use digestive biscuits or any other cookies for the crust. Adjust the butter accordingly if they are sweeter.