Elegant Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake Bars

There’s something truly special about combining the tangy flavors of lemon with the sweetness of raspberries. These Elegant Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake Bars have become a favorite in my household, especially during the warmer months. I remember the first time I made these bars for a family gathering—everyone was impressed by the beautiful presentation and the burst of flavors with each bite.

The creamy cheesecake, zesty lemon, and swirls of raspberry preserves make for an irresistible dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is straightforward and yields spectacular results. I hope you enjoy making and savoring these delightful bars as much as we do!

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Ingredients

Crust

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling

• 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest

Topping

• 1/2 cup raspberry preserves
• Fresh raspberries, for garnish
• Lemon slices, for garnish
• Whipped cream, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing the parchment to hang over the sides for easy removal later.
2. Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and the melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are well-coated and resemble wet sand.
3. Form the Crust: Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to create an even layer. Use the bottom of a measuring cup or a glass to press it down tightly. This will be the base of your cheesecake bars.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

4. Beat the Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1 cup of granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. This may take about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
5. Add Vanilla and Eggs: Add the vanilla extract and mix until well combined. Then, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This ensures a smooth and uniform filling.
6. Incorporate Sour Cream and Flour: Mix in the sour cream, followed by the all-purpose flour. These ingredients help to thicken the filling and give it a rich texture.
7. Add Lemon: Finally, add the lemon juice and lemon zest. Mix until everything is well combined and the filling is smooth.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

8. Pour the Filling: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the prepared crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
9. Add Raspberry Swirl: Drop spoonfuls of raspberry preserves over the filling. Use a knife to gently swirl the preserves into the cheesecake mixture, creating a marbled effect.
10. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly browned. The cheesecake should jiggle slightly in the center but will firm up as it cools.

Step 4: Cool and Chill

11. Cool to Room Temperature: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature in the pan. This prevents cracking and allows the cheesecake to set properly.
12. Chill: Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or overnight. Chilling is crucial as it helps the cheesecake bars to firm up and makes them easier to cut.

Step 5: Serve

13. Cut into Bars: Once fully chilled, use the parchment paper to lift the cheesecake out of the pan. Place it on a cutting board and cut into 16 bars using a sharp knife. For clean cuts, wipe the knife with a damp cloth between slices.
14. Garnish: Just before serving, garnish each bar with fresh raspberries, lemon slices, and a dollop of whipped cream. These toppings add a burst of color and enhance the flavors of the cheesecake bars.

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• ==> Aluminum Nonstick Frying Pan

Tips for Success

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure all your ingredients, especially the cream cheese, are at room temperature before you begin. This ensures a smooth and lump-free filling.
• Don’t Overmix: When adding the eggs, mix just until combined. Overmixing can incorporate too much air into the batter, causing the cheesecake to crack.
• Cooling: Allow the cheesecake to cool gradually. Avoid placing it directly into the fridge from the oven, as sudden temperature changes can cause cracks.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 320 kcal per serving
• Servings: 16 bars

These Elegant Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat that combines the tangy taste of lemon with the sweetness of raspberries. The creamy cheesecake filling, complemented by the buttery graham cracker crust, makes for an irresistible dessert. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or looking for a special treat to enjoy, these cheesecake bars are sure to be a hit.

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Enjoy making these luscious cheesecake bars and delight in their elegant flavors. Don’t forget to share your experience and leave a comment below. Happy baking!