These White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars are creamy, sweet, and a little tart. The smooth cheesecake pairs perfectly with juicy raspberries and a graham cracker crust!
If you’re like me, you might find the crust hard to resist! I love serving these bars chilled, and they always disappear fast. Enjoy a sweet treat that looks fancy but is so easy to make!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham cracker crumbs: These are perfect for a crunchy base. If you can’t find them or want a change, try digestive biscuits or even crushed Oreos for a chocolatey twist!
Cream cheese: This provides the creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use Neufchâtel cheese, which has lower fat. Vegan cream cheese is also a great substitute for a dairy-free version.
White chocolate: I love using high-quality white chocolate for the best taste. If you’re unsure about white chocolate, try white chocolate chips melted down or even mimic the flavor with vanilla extract in a pinch.
Fresh raspberries: Fresh is best for bright flavor, but you can substitute with frozen raspberries if fresh ones aren’t available. Just thaw and drain excess moisture before using.
How Do You Create the Perfect Raspberry Swirl?
Swirling raspberries into the cheesecake must be done gently to get that beautiful marbled effect. Here’s how to nail it:
- First, prepare the raspberry puree as directed to ensure it’s thick enough to hold its shape.
- Then, drop spoonfuls of the puree onto the cheesecake batter. Don’t worry about being perfect!
- Use a knife or a skewer to gently drag through both the batter and the raspberry drops. Be careful not to over-swirl; a few gentle movements should do the trick.
This will give you those stunning swirls while keeping the flavors intact for amazing bites!
Delicious White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 6 oz white chocolate, melted and slightly cooled
For the Raspberry Swirl:
- 1 cup fresh raspberries (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp lemon juice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This amazing dessert requires about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 35-40 minutes of baking time, and then at least 4 hours to chill in the refrigerator. Plan for an overnight chill if you want to prepare it in advance!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Take an 8×8 inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper. Don’t forget to leave some parchment hanging over the sides; this will make it super easy to lift out the bars later!
2. Making the Crust:
In a bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup of sugar, and melted butter. Stir it until everything is well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the lined pan to create a nice, even layer. This step is crucial for a good, crunchy base!
3. Baking the Crust:
Pop the crust into the oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes, just until it’s set. When it’s done, take it out and let it cool a little bit while you prepare the filling.
4. Preparing the Raspberry Puree:
While the crust is in the oven, grab a small saucepan. Combine the raspberries, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and lemon juice in there. Cook over medium heat, stirring gently from time to time. You want the raspberries to break down and become a bit thick. This should take around 5-7 minutes. After cooking, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove any seeds, and let it cool.
5. Making the Cheesecake Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup of sugar until you have a smooth and creamy consistency. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, and then fold in the melted white chocolate until everything is nicely combined.
6. Assembling the Bars:
Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust and make sure to smooth the top with a spatula. Now it’s time to add the fun swirl! Drop spoonfuls of the raspberry puree over the cheesecake mixture. Then, take a knife or a skewer and gently swirl the raspberry into the cheesecake. Be careful not to mix it too much; you want those lovely swirls!
7. Baking the Cheesecake:
Place the pan in the oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the edges should be set, while the center can still have a bit of jiggle.
8. Cooling and Chilling:
After baking, let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, it’s chilling time! Put them in the fridge for at least 4 hours, or even better, overnight to set fully.
9. Serving Your Bars:
When you’re ready to serve, use the parchment overhang to lift the cheesecake out of the pan. Cut into squares or bars, and if you like, garnish with extra fresh raspberries on top.
Enjoy your delicious White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars! They’re perfect for any occasion and will definitely impress your guests!
Can I Use Frozen Raspberries for This Recipe?
Yes, frozen raspberries work just fine! Just make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess moisture. This will help you achieve the perfect raspberry swirl without adding too much liquid to the cheesecake.
Can I Substitute the Cream Cheese?
Absolutely! You can use Neufchâtel cheese for a reduced-fat option or vegan cream cheese if you want a dairy-free version. Both alternatives will still give you a deliciously creamy filling!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them! Just wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before enjoying.
What’s the Best Way to Serve These Cheesecake Bars?
These bars are best served chilled! You can garnish them with extra fresh raspberries or even a drizzle of white chocolate for an elegant touch. They’re perfect as a dessert for parties or gatherings!
