Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars

Name: Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 16 bars
Ingredients: 1 cup chocolate graham cracker crumbs; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 large eggs; 1 cup fresh raspberries; 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate, melted

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I absolutely love making chocolate raspberry cheesecake bars when I want to impress my friends or treat myself to something special. The combination of creamy cheesecake with the tartness of fresh raspberries and velvety chocolate is irresistible. This dessert is relatively easy to prepare, and it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Plus, baking these bars fills the kitchen with a delicious aroma that makes the wait even harder. I can’t wait to share this delightful recipe with you!

Created by

Elodie Fairfax

Last updated on 2026-01-13T06:25:36.743Z

When I first made these chocolate raspberry cheesecake bars, I was astonished by how well the flavors worked together. The rich chocolate base perfectly complemented the bright taste of the raspberries, creating a dessert that was both decadent and refreshing. One key tip that made a difference for me was using fresh raspberries instead of frozen ones, which enhances the texture and flavor.

Over the years, I've refined the recipe to ensure a smooth cheesecake filling that sets beautifully without cracking. By baking the bars in a water bath, I found that they come out creamier and more evenly cooked. You won’t believe how quickly these bars disappeared at my last gathering!

        Why You'll Love These Bars
        The rich chocolate flavor paired with tangy raspberries creates a perfect balance.
Smooth and creamy texture that melts beautifully in your mouth.
Visually stunning, making it perfect for special occasions or everyday treats.

      

Understanding the Key Ingredients

The stars of this Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars recipe are undoubtedly the cream cheese and raspberries. Using full-fat cream cheese is crucial for achieving that rich and creamy texture; it not only contributes to the flavor but also ensures the cheesecake sets properly without becoming too dense or dry. If you're looking for a lighter option, you could use 1/3 fat cream cheese, but be sure to adjust the baking time as it may require slightly longer.

Fresh raspberries bring a vibrant flavor and natural sweetness that balances the richness of the cheesecake. Make sure to select plump, firm berries that are deep red in color. If fresh raspberries are out of season, you can substitute them with frozen raspberries; just remember to thaw and drain them thoroughly to prevent excess moisture from making the filling watery.

Baking Tips for Perfect Cheesecake Bars

To avoid cracking on the surface of your cheesecake bars, it's essential to bake them at a consistent temperature. The ideal baking temperature is around 350°F (175°C). Keep an eye on the cheesecake during the last few minutes of baking; it should appear set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center, as it will continue to firm up as it cools. Overbaking can lead to dry texture, so aim for that perfect visual cue!

After baking, it's important to let the bars cool completely at room temperature before transferring them to the refrigerator. This step is crucial as it prevents condensation from forming on the surface, which can also lead to unwanted texture changes. Once chilled for at least two hours, your bars will be easier to slice and will hold their shape better, presenting perfectly when served.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious chocolate raspberry cheesecake bars:

For the Crust

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

For the Filling

16 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
1 cup fresh raspberries
1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate, melted

Make sure to use quality chocolate for the filling to elevate the flavor of your bars!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your cheesecake bars:

Prepare the crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine chocolate graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9x9 inch baking pan.

Make the filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese with sugar until smooth. Add vanilla extract and mix well. Incorporate the eggs one at a time until fully combined.

Add the raspberries

Gently fold in the fresh raspberries, being careful not to break them. Pour the filling over the prepared crust.

Add chocolate

Drizzle the melted chocolate over the cheesecake filling and swirl gently with a knife for a marbled effect.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the center is set. Allow cooling completely before refrigerating for at least 2 hours.

Slice and serve

Once chilled, slice into bars and serve. Enjoy your delicious chocolate raspberry cheesecake bars!

These bars taste even better the next day, so consider making them ahead of time!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, serve these bars with a dollop of whipped cream and a few extra raspberries on top.

Serving Suggestions

These cheesecake bars are wonderfully versatile when it comes to serving. They can be enjoyed plain, but for an extra touch, consider adding a dollop of whipped cream or a light dusting of powdered sugar on top. For gatherings, presenting them on a beautiful platter garnished with fresh raspberries and mint leaves can create a stunning display that impresses your guests.

Another delightful serving option is to drizzle a homemade chocolate sauce over each bar right before serving. This not only enhances their appearance but also adds an extra layer of rich, chocolatey goodness that pairs beautifully with the tartness of the raspberries.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Chocolate raspberry cheesecake bars can easily be made a day in advance, making them a convenient choice for parties or gatherings. After baking and cooling, wrap the pan tightly with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator. If you plan to make them more than a day ahead, they can also be frozen. Just slice the bars and wrap each piece in plastic wrap before placing them in an airtight container; they can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

When ready to serve from frozen, simply transfer the bars to the refrigerator a few hours ahead to thaw. This method ensures your cheesecake bars maintain their flavor and texture, and it makes piecing together desserts for a get-together much simpler!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen raspberries?

Yes, but fresh raspberries provide a better flavor and texture.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can I freeze these cheesecake bars?

Absolutely! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

→ What type of chocolate should I use?

Using high-quality semi-sweet chocolate will enhance the flavor of your bars significantly.