Description
Raspberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars are the perfect combination of creamy cheesecake, tart raspberries, and zesty lemon, all layered on a buttery graham cracker crust. These easy-to-make bars are the ultimate refreshing dessert, ideal for parties, holidays, or any sweet craving.
Ingredients
-
Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tbsp butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
-
Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 3 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup raspberries (fresh or frozen)
-
Optional Garnish:
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C) and line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- Make the Crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl. Press into the bottom of the pan and bake for 8-10 minutes. Let cool slightly.
- Prepare Cheesecake Filling: Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and mix until combined.
- Add Eggs & Flavor: Mix in eggs one at a time, followed by lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
- Assemble: Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust. Gently place raspberries on top, pressing them slightly into the filling.
- Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
- Cool & Chill: Let the bars cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing.
- Serve: Dust with powdered sugar if desired and cut into bars before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Do not overmix the batter to prevent cracks.
- Wipe the knife between cuts for clean slices.
- If using frozen raspberries, do not thaw them before baking.
- Prep Time: 15min
- Cook Time: 30min
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American