Lemon-Raspberry Cheesecake Bars are a delightful and elegant dessert that combine the tangy zest of lemons with the sweet, fruity flavor of raspberries. This dessert is perfect for those who appreciate the classic taste of cheesecake but desire something with a unique twist. It’s a popular choice for special occasions, summer gatherings, or as a luxurious treat for any day of the week.
The base of these cheesecake bars is a buttery, crumbly crust, typically made from crushed graham crackers or digestive biscuits mixed with melted butter and a touch of sugar. This crust forms a firm and flavorful foundation that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheesecake layer. The crust is pressed into a pan and baked until it is just set, forming the perfect platform for the cheesecake filling.
The cheesecake layer is a blend of rich cream cheese, eggs, sugar, and, in this case, the zesty addition of lemon. Fresh lemon zest and juice are incorporated into the cheesecake mixture, infusing it with a bright, citrusy flavor that cuts through the richness of the cream cheese. The smooth and creamy texture of this layer is a hallmark of a well-made cheesecake.
Raspberries play a starring role in these bars, adding a burst of fruity sweetness. They can be layered on top of the cheesecake mixture or swirled through it, creating a visually stunning pattern. The tartness of the raspberries complements the lemon flavor, making for a well-balanced and refreshing dessert.
Once assembled, the Lemon-Raspberry Cheesecake Bars are baked until the cheesecake is set but still slightly wobbly in the center. After cooling, they are chilled in the refrigerator, which helps to set the cheesecake further and makes it easier to cut into bars. The final product is a visually appealing and deliciously layered dessert, with the smooth cheesecake, tangy lemon, and sweet raspberries offering a symphony of flavors and textures in every bite.
These cheesecake bars are often garnished with additional raspberries, lemon zest, or a dusting of powdered sugar before serving, adding an extra touch of elegance. Lemon-Raspberry Cheesecake Bars are not just a dessert; they are a celebration of flavor, combining classic cheesecake richness with the bright, fresh tastes of lemon and raspberry.
Step 1: Gather ingredients and preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Step 2: Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with aluminum foil, allowing some to extend over the edges. Spray foil with cooking spray to keep the filling from sticking to the sides. You'll use the overhang to lift the bars from the pan to cut them.
Step 3: Process flour, brown sugar, and salt in the bowl of a food processor until blended. Add cold butter chunks and process until mixture resembles coarse cornmeal.
Step 4: Pour crust mixture into the prepared pan, shake it a bit to help even out the mixture, and press down gently with fingertips. Use a smaller pan, such as 8x8-inch, to press down the entire surface so the crust is smooth and tight.
Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven until golden brown, about 20 minutes. Let cool for 5 minutes.
Step 6: While the crust cools, heat jam in a microwave-safe bowl in a microwave just until warm, 30 to 60 seconds; stir until smooth.
Step 7: Beat cream cheese with an electric stand mixer for 1 minute; add sugar and flour and beat until well blended. With mixture running, add egg, egg yolk, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix well until smooth.
Step 8: Spread jam evenly over the cooled crust. Place raspberries, cut-side down, evenly over jam.
Step 9: Pour cream cheese mixture over berries and gently smooth mixture until it covers the entire pan.
Step 10: Bake in the preheated oven just until set, 25 to 30 minutes. Cool for 1 hour at room temperature, then place in the refrigerator to cool for another 2 hours.
Step 11: Gently lift cooled cheesecake from the baking pan using the foil overhang. Place on a cutting board, peel back edges of foil, and cut into 24 bars.
TOP 5+ FAQ Lemon-Raspberry Cheesecake Bars Recipes
✅What Type of Cream Cheese is Best for Lemon-Raspberry Cheesecake Bars?
Full-fat cream cheese is recommended for Lemon-Raspberry Cheesecake Bars to achieve a rich and creamy texture. However, for a lighter version, low-fat or neufchâtel cheese can be used, but it may slightly alter the texture and flavor.
✅Can Fresh Raspberries be Replaced with Frozen Ones in the Recipe?
Yes, frozen raspberries can be used instead of fresh ones. There's no need to thaw them before use. Keep in mind that frozen raspberries may release more juice, which could affect the consistency of the filling slightly.
✅What's the Secret to a Perfect Graham Cracker Crust?
For a perfect graham cracker crust, mix finely ground graham crackers with melted butter and a bit of sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the pan to create an even layer. Baking the crust for a few minutes before adding the filling helps it set and prevents it from getting soggy.
✅How Can You Ensure the Cheesecake Layer is Smooth and Creamy?
To ensure a smooth and creamy cheesecake layer, bring the cream cheese to room temperature before mixing. Beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth, then add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Avoid overmixing to prevent incorporating too much air into the batter.
✅What is the Best Way to Swirl the Raspberry Sauce into the Cheesecake?
Dollop the raspberry sauce over the cheesecake layer and use a toothpick or a knife to gently swirl the sauce into the batter. Be careful not to over-swirl, as this can mix the sauce too thoroughly into the batter and lose the swirled effect.
✅How Long Should Lemon-Raspberry Cheesecake Bars Chill Before Serving?
Lemon-Raspberry Cheesecake Bars should chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight. This chilling time allows the bars to set properly and makes them easier to slice.
✅Can Lemon-Raspberry Cheesecake Bars be Frozen?
Yes, these cheesecake bars can be frozen. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and they can be stored in the freezer for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
✅What Are Some Variations of This Recipe for Different Flavors?
To vary the flavors, try using different types of berries like strawberries or blueberries. You can also experiment with adding different citrus zests to the cheesecake batter, like lime or orange, for a unique twist.
