Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake Bars
Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake Bars are a delightful dessert that perfectly combines the tartness of lemon and the sweetness of raspberries. These bars are creamy, refreshing, and make for a lovely treat any time of year. They are easy to prepare and offer a great balance of flavors that will please anyone who takes a bite.
Why Make This Recipe
You should make these Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake Bars because they are a crowd-pleaser! They are perfect for family gatherings, parties, or just a sweet snack at home. The bright flavors of lemon and raspberry bring a sunny touch to your dessert table. Plus, these bars are simple to make and can be prepared in advance, making them a fantastic addition to any occasion.
How to Make Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients
- 9 Graham Cracker Sheets
- 4 Tablespoons Butter, salted & melted
- 16 Ounces Cream Cheese, softened
- 2/3 Cup Sugar
- 2 Teaspoons Vanilla Extract
- 1 Tablespoon Lemon Zest
- 1/4 Cup Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 Eggs
- 6 Ounces Raspberries
- 1 Tablespoon Sugar (optional)
Directions
- First, preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit and line an 8×8 square baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Crumble the graham crackers in a food processor until they turn into fine crumbs.
- Place the graham cracker crumbs in a small bowl and mix in the melted butter.
- Scoop the mixture into the base of your baking dish and firmly press down to create an even layer.
- Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool. Keep your oven heated at 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Next, use an electric blender at medium to high speed to blend the cream cheese until it is light and creamy. Then blend in the sugar, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice until everything is completely combined.
- Add one egg at a time, mixing at low speed until each one is incorporated.
- Pour the lemon cheesecake mixture on top of the graham cracker crust.
- In a food processor, blend the raspberries until pureed, then strain it to remove the seeds.
- Mix in 1 tablespoon of sugar to the raspberry puree if desired.
- Finally, drizzle and swirl the raspberry mixture with a toothpick on top of the cheesecake.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the cheesecake is set.
- Let it cool completely on an iron rack in the pan, then refrigerate for 3 hours or overnight.
- Cut into small or large squares and enjoy!
How to Serve Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake Bars
Serve these bars chilled, straight from the refrigerator. They can be enjoyed on their own or with a dollop of whipped cream on top. Garnishing with a few fresh raspberries or a sprig of mint adds a nice touch too!
How to Store Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake Bars
Keep the Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last up to five days. If you want to store them for a longer time, you can freeze them. Wrap the individual squares tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
Tips to Make Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake Bars
- For the best flavor, use fresh lemon juice and zest.
- Ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth filling.
- Strain the raspberry puree well to remove seeds for a smoother texture.
- If you like it sweeter, consider adding more sugar to the cheesecake mixture or the raspberry puree.
Variation
You can change the flavor by using different fruits like strawberries or blueberries in place of raspberries. You can also experiment with adding other flavorings, like almond extract, for a unique twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use a store-bought crust instead of making my own?
Yes, you can definitely use a store-bought graham cracker crust to save time!
2. Can I make these bars a day ahead?
Absolutely! These bars are great for making ahead of time. Just be sure to refrigerate them until you’re ready to serve.
3. Is it necessary to refrigerate the cheesecake bars?
Yes, refrigeration is important to set the bars and make them easier to cut into squares.
Enjoy making and indulging in these delicious Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake Bars!
