Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Epic Raspberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars combine the tangy brightness of lemon with the sweet, fruity punch of raspberries, all layered over a buttery graham cracker crust. These bars are rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced with a swirl of vibrant raspberry puree. Ideal for spring and summer gatherings, they’re a refreshing twist on classic cheesecake in a convenient handheld form.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

graham cracker crumbsmelted buttersugarcream cheesegranulated sugareggsvanilla extractlemon juicelemon zestraspberry puree (fresh or frozen raspberries blended and strained)cornstarch

directions

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.

Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, then let it cool while preparing the filling.

In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.

Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest until fully combined.

Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust and spread evenly.

In a small bowl, mix raspberry puree with cornstarch until smooth. Drop spoonfuls over the cheesecake layer and use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the puree into the batter.

Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Let the bars cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Once chilled, lift the bars out using the parchment overhang and slice into squares.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 20 bars.Preparation time: 20 minutesBaking time: 35-40 minutesCooling and chilling time: 4-5 hoursTotal time: 5-6 hours

Variations

Use blueberries or blackberries instead of raspberries for a different berry twist.

Add a graham crust made with a mix of crushed vanilla wafers for extra flavor.

Top with whipped cream and fresh raspberries before serving for a festive look.

Use lime juice and zest instead of lemon for a tropical variation.

Make mini cheesecake bites using a muffin tin and liners.

storage/reheating

Store Raspberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.They can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.No reheating needed—these bars are best enjoyed chilled.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.

Why are my bars cracking?

Overmixing or overbaking can cause cracks. Avoid mixing too vigorously and watch the baking time.

Do I need to use a water bath?

No water bath is needed for this recipe—just careful baking at the right temperature.

Can I use raspberry jam instead of puree?

Yes, but dilute it slightly with water and strain it to ensure a smooth swirl.

How do I know when the bars are done?

They’re done when the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle—it will firm up as it chills.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Full-fat cream cheese is best for texture and flavor, but low-fat can work with minor changes in texture.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use two pans or a larger pan and adjust baking time as needed.

How do I get clean slices?

Wipe the knife with a warm, damp cloth between cuts for neat squares.

Are these bars suitable for outdoor events?

Yes, but keep them chilled in a cooler until ready to serve to maintain texture.

Conclusion

Epic Raspberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars are a showstopping dessert that delivers bold flavors, creamy texture, and eye-catching swirls in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a celebration or just craving something sweet and zesty, these bars are guaranteed to impress. Perfectly portable and irresistibly delicious, they’re a dessert you’ll want to make again and again.