Raspberry Cheesecake Bars

A buttery graham cracker crust, silky cheesecake filling, and vibrant raspberry swirls—these bars are the perfect marriage of sweet, tangy, and creamy in every bite.

Prep & Bake Time

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes

• Chill Time: 2–3 hours (for best results)

• Bake Time: 35–40 minutes

• Total Time: Approx. 3 hours (including chilling)

• Servings: 12 bars

• Calories per Serving: Approx. 280–320 kcal

 Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 whole crackers)

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese, softened

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• ½ cup sour cream

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for added stability)

For the Raspberry Swirl:

• ½ cup raspberry jam or preserves (seedless preferred)

• Optional: ½ cup fresh raspberries, mashed slightly

 Directions

1. Preheat and Prepare Pan

Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
Line an 8×8 or 9×9 inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal.

2. Make the Crust

In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.

• Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.

• Bake for 8–10 minutes until golden and set. Set aside to cool while you make the filling.

3. Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy (about 2 minutes).

• Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed.

• Add sour cream, vanilla, and flour (if using). Mix until just combined—do not overmix.

4. Assemble and Add Raspberry Swirl

Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust and smooth the top.

• In a small bowl, microwave the raspberry jam for 10–15 seconds to loosen it.

• Drop small spoonfuls of jam across the surface of the cheesecake batter.

• Use a skewer or toothpick to swirl the jam into the batter for a marbled effect.

Optional: Add mashed raspberries to the jam before swirling for more texture and tartness.

5. Bake

Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is just set and slightly jiggly in the middle.

• The edges will puff up slightly.

• Do not overbake—residual heat will continue to cook the bars as they cool.

6. Cool and Chill

Remove from oven and let cool in the pan to room temperature.

• Transfer to the fridge and chill for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for clean cuts and best flavor.

7. Slice and Serve

Use the parchment paper overhang to lift bars out of the pan.

• Slice into 12 squares or rectangles with a clean knife.

• Wipe the knife between cuts for neat edges.

 Serving Suggestions

• Top with fresh raspberries, mint leaves, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

• Pair with a cup of coffee or hot tea.

• Serve slightly chilled for a refreshing dessert.

 Calories & Nutrition (Per Serving)

Note: Nutrition varies based on jam used and whether fresh raspberries are added.

Tips for Perfect Raspberry Cheesecake Bars

• Use room temperature ingredients: Cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream should be soft to ensure a smooth filling.

• Don’t overmix: This prevents too much air in the batter, which can cause cracks.

• Cool gradually: Letting the bars cool slowly in the oven (door cracked) helps avoid surface cracks.

• Make ahead: These bars keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Perfect for events and meal prep.

• Freezer-friendly: Wrap individual bars and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.

 Variations to Try

• Strawberry Swirl: Substitute raspberry jam for strawberry or mixed berry preserves.

• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top before serving.

• Lemon Raspberry: Add 1 tbsp lemon zest to the batter for a citrus kick.

• Crust alternatives: Use crushed vanilla wafers or Oreo crumbs for a twist.

 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple ingredients and no water bath needed.

• Easier to serve and store than traditional cheesecake.

• A showstopper at any gathering, holiday, or special occasion.

• Creamy, fruity, sweet, and satisfying.