Raspberry Cheesecake Bars

In a good raspberry jam is the secret weapon for intense fruit flavor without the hassle of cooking down fresh berries. Its concentrated tartness cuts beautifully through the rich, creamy layer in these cheesecake bars. I learned that lesson years ago, standing in my grandmother’s kitchen, watching her swirl jam into a bowl of cream cheese with the back of a spoon. It wasn’t a fancy dessert, just a simple treat for a Sunday afternoon, but the way that bright, fruity ribbon danced through the creamy base made it feel like a celebration. That memory, of simple ingredients creating something truly special, is the heart of every recipe I love to share.

Today, I want to bring that same joy to your kitchen with these Raspberry Cheesecake Bars. They capture everything wonderful about a classic cheesecake—the velvety texture, the rich tang—but in a fuss-free, sliceable bar form that’s perfect for sharing. Whether you’re looking for standout valentines dessert ideas, need a showstopper for a valentines dessert board, or simply want a sweet treat to end a family dinner, these bars deliver. They’re the kind of dessert that feels indulgent but is surprisingly straightforward to make, proving that great flavor doesn’t require complicated steps. Let’s make something delicious.

Print

Ingredients List

Raspberry Cheesecake Bars come together with a short list of ingredients, most of which you might already have in your pantry. The magic is in how they layer together.

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10-12 full sheets)
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 ounces (two 8-oz blocks) full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• ⅔ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ¼ cup sour cream or full-fat Greek yogurt
• ⅓ cup seedless raspberry jam (plus an extra spoonful for swirling)

Smart Swaps & Notes:

• Graham Cracker Crumbs: You can use digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers for a slightly different flavor. For a gluten-free version, certified gluten-free graham crackers work perfectly.
• Cream Cheese: Full-fat is key for the creamiest texture and to prevent cracking. Do not use whipped or reduced-fat varieties.
• Raspberry Jam: A good-quality seedless jam gives you that intense, pure raspberry flavor. You can also use homemade raspberry compote if you prefer. For other valentines day dessert recipes, blackberry or strawberry jam would be lovely here too.
• Sour Cream: This adds a wonderful tang and helps create a lush, smooth filling. Greek yogurt is a great substitute.

Timing

One of the best things about these Raspberry Cheesecake Bars is how the hands-on time is minimal, letting the oven and refrigerator do most of the work.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
• Chill Time: 4 hours (minimum) or overnight
• Total Time: About 4 hours 50 minutes (mostly inactive)

Compared to a traditional baked cheesecake, these bars save you significant time, both in baking and in the essential chilling period, making them a fantastic choice for when you need a impressive dessert without a full-day project.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps for perfect, swirl-marbled Raspberry Cheesecake Bars every time.

1. Prepare the Pan and Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two opposite sides. This “sling” will make it incredibly easy to lift the entire batch of cheesecake bars out of the pan for clean slicing later.

2. Make the Graham Cracker Crust

In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Pour the melted butter over the top and stir with a fork until the mixture resembles wet sand and holds together when pinched. Pour it into your prepared pan and press it down firmly and evenly into the bottom. I like to use the bottom of a flat measuring cup to really compact it. Pre-bake this crust for 8 minutes, then let it cool on a wire rack while you make the filling. This step helps prevent a soggy bottom.

3. Create the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl using a hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the softened cream cheese on medium speed until completely smooth and creamy, about 1-2 minutes. Scrape down the bowl. Add the sugar and beat again until fully combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating on low speed just until each is incorporated. Over-beating the eggs can incorporate too much air and lead to cracking. Finally, beat in the vanilla extract and sour cream until the mixture is silky and uniform.

4. Swirl and Bake

Pour the cheesecake filling over the slightly cooled crust and spread it evenly. Drop small dollops of the raspberry jam randomly over the surface of the filling. Using a knife or a toothpick, gently swirl the jam into the cheesecake layer to create a beautiful marbled effect. Don’t over-swirl, or the colors will muddle.
Bake the Raspberry Cheesecake Bars for 35-40 minutes. The edges will be set, but the center should still have a slight jiggle—like Jell-O—when you gently shake the pan. This is crucial for a creamy, not dry, texture.

5. Cool and Chill

Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the pan sit inside for 1 hour. This gradual cooling helps prevent major cracking. Then, transfer the pan to a wire rack to cool completely to room temperature. Once cool, cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal. This chilling time allows the bars to fully set, making them easy to slice cleanly.

Nutritional Information

(Per bar, assuming 12 servings)

• Calories: ~320
• Total Fat: 21g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 85mg
• Sodium: 220mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 29g
• Dietary Fiber: 0.5g
• Sugars: 23g
• Protein: 5g

While these Raspberry Cheesecake Bars are a treat, the cream cheese and eggs provide a good source of protein and calcium. The raspberry jam contributes a touch of fruit flavor, and using a quality jam means you’re getting real fruit. For a slightly lighter version, see the swaps in the healthier alternatives section below.

Equipment Needed

You don’t need any specialty tools for these Raspberry Cheesecake Bars, just standard kitchen essentials.

• 8×8-inch square baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Hand mixer or stand mixer (a whisk and strong arm can work in a pinch)
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wire cooling rack

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Raspberry Cheesecake Bars are more than just a dessert; they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that simplifies the baking process.

• Cheesecake Flavor, Bar Simplicity: All the luxurious taste of baked cheesecake without the stress of a water bath or a springform pan. They’re the ultimate easy-bake cheesecake.
• Perfect for Sharing & Gifting: Their portable bar form makes them ideal for potlucks, bake sales, or as a heartfelt homemade gift. They’re a gorgeous addition to any valentines dessert board.
• Make-Ahead Magic: They actually taste better the next day after the flavors have fully melded in the fridge, making them the ultimate stress-free dessert for entertaining.
• Endlessly Adaptable: Love the concept? You can swap the raspberry jam for lemon curd, chocolate sauce, or a different fruit preserve to create a whole new dessert. Check out my Mixed Berry Cheesecake Crumb Bars for another fantastic berry-and-cheesecake combination.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

You can easily tweak this Raspberry Cheesecake Bars recipe to fit different dietary needs without sacrificing that dreamy texture.

• Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free graham crackers or gluten-free cookie crumbs for the crust.
• Dairy-Light/Lactose-Free: Substitute the cream cheese, sour cream, and butter with your favorite high-quality dairy-free alternatives. Just ensure the cream cheese alternative is meant for baking.
• Lower Sugar: You can reduce the granulated sugar in the filling by a few tablespoons, and use a sugar-free or all-fruit raspberry spread. The texture may be slightly less firm.
• High-Protein Twist: For a breakfast or snack variation inspired by these flavors, try my High Protein Blueberry Cheesecake Oats. It’s a completely different, protein-packed treat that satisfies the same craving.

Serving Suggestions

The beauty of these bars is that they are stunning all on their own, but a little garnish goes a long way.

• Classic & Simple: Serve a square dusted with a light shower of powdered sugar.
• Fresh & Fruity: Top each bar with a few fresh raspberries and a sprig of mint just before serving. The fresh berries echo the jam swirl beautifully.
• With a Dollop: A small spoonful of softly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream turns them into an extra-special sundae.
• For a Dessert Board: Cut them into smaller, bite-sized pieces for a valentines dessert board. Pair them with other treats like Chocolate Covered Strawberries Cheesecake Dip or slices of my Valentines Day Cake for a beautiful and varied spread of valentines dessert ideas.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

A few simple tips will ensure your Raspberry Cheesecake Bars turn out perfectly creamy and crack-free.

1. Using Cold Ingredients: Room temperature cream cheese and eggs are non-negotiable. They blend smoothly and evenly into the batter, preventing lumps and over-mixing.
2. Over-Baking: The center should still wobble slightly when you take it out of the oven. It will continue to set as it cools. A fully firm center in the oven means a dry cheesecake.
3. Skipping the Chill Time: Patience is key. Slicing into the bars before they are fully chilled will result in a messy, soft texture. The overnight chill is your friend for clean, sharp slices.
4. Over-Swirling the Jam: A few gentle figure-eight motions with a knife are all you need. If you swirl too vigorously, you’ll lose the beautiful contrast between the white cheesecake and the vibrant raspberry jam.
5. Packing the Crust Too Loosely: A firmly pressed crust is essential. It forms a solid base that won’t crumble when you slice the bars. Use the bottom of a cup to really press it down.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Proper storage keeps these Raspberry Cheesecake Bars tasting fresh and delicious.

• Refrigerator: Keep the bars covered tightly in the baking pan or in an airtight container. They will stay fresh and creamy for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: These bars freeze exceptionally well! Place sliced bars on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 2 hours). Then, transfer the frozen bars to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Serving After Chilling: For the best texture and flavor, let the bars sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes after removing them from the fridge before serving.

Conclusion

At the end of the day, the best recipes are the ones that bring people together with minimal stress and maximum flavor. These Raspberry Cheesecake Bars do just that. They offer the decadent, creamy satisfaction of a classic dessert in a form that’s made for sharing, for gifting, or for savoring one small square at a time with a cup of coffee. They prove that with a few good ingredients and a little patience, you can create something truly memorable.

I hope this recipe finds its way into your regular rotation of special treats. It’s a perfect fit for your valentines day dessert recipes collection, but honestly, it’s wonderful any day you need a little sweetness. If you give these bars a try, I’d love to hear how they turned out for you. Did you stick with raspberry or try a different swirl? Share your creations and tag @StackSipSnack so I can see your beautiful work!

And if you’re looking for more easy, crowd-pleasing desserts, you might enjoy my Gingerbread Cheesecake Dip Recipe for a cozy holiday twist, or browse the site for more inspiration. Happy baking.

Okay, here's the RankMath-compatible FAQ block for "Raspberry Cheesecake Bars," based on top "People Also Ask" questions from Google.

FAQs about Raspberry Cheesecake Bars

💬 Lets Stay Connected!
For daily recipes, kitchen tips, and exclusive content, follow me on:
👉 Facebook for behind the scenes and community fun
👉 Pinterest for visual inspiration and meal ideas
👉 X (Twitter) for quick tips and trending recipes

📲 Join the flavor journey, your next favorite recipe is just a follow away!