Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars

Name: Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 1 cup of chocolate cookie crumbs; 1/4 cup of unsalted butter, melted; 2 tablespoons of sugar; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup of sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract; 1 cup of fresh raspberries; 1/4 cup of fresh raspberries; Chocolate shavings (optional)

Highlighted under: Oven Inspiration

I love making Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars because they beautifully blend rich chocolate, creamy cheesecake, and tart raspberries into one delicious dessert. The combination of flavors is simply irresistible, and the presentation is stunning when served. Each bite is a delightful explosion of tastes, making them perfect for gatherings or even a cozy night in. Plus, the best part is that they are surprisingly easy to whip up, letting me impress my friends and family without spending hours in the kitchen!

Created by

Kerensa Trelawney

Last updated on 2026-01-13T01:11:36.365Z

When I first experimented with making these Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars, I was looking for a way to merge two of my favorite desserts into one. The chocolate base gives it a delightful richness, while the raspberry topping adds just the right amount of tartness. I found that using fresh raspberries really elevates the flavors, making it a standout treat.

This recipe has become a go-to for me because it’s so versatile. If I'm feeling adventurous, I swap the raspberries for strawberries or blueberries for a delightful variation. The key is to ensure the cheesecake layer is smooth and creamy, which I achieve by using room temperature cream cheese—this makes blending much easier!

Why You'll Love These Bars
Decadent chocolate richness complemented by fruity raspberry brightness
Velvety cheesecake layer that balances perfectly with the crust
A striking appearance that makes for an impressive dessert

Mastering the Cheesecake Filling

Achieving the perfect cheesecake filling requires a few key techniques. It's important to start with softened cream cheese, as this ensures a smooth and creamy texture. I recommend setting your cream cheese out for about 30 minutes before using it. If you're short on time, you can cut it into smaller pieces to speed up softening. Be careful not to overmix after adding the eggs, as this can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks during baking.

When folding in the raspberries, do so gently to avoid smashing them too much. You want delightful bursts of raspberry flavor throughout your cheesecake bars. If fresh raspberries are out of season, feel free to use frozen ones; just ensure they are fully thawed and drained to prevent excess moisture that might alter the filling's consistency.

Baking and Cooling Tips

Baking the cheesecake filling requires precision. Keep an eye on it for the last 10 minutes; it should be set around the edges but still very slightly jiggly in the center—this indicates a creamy texture once cooled. Be cautious not to overbake, as this can lead to a dry filling. If the surface starts to brown too soon, consider lowering the oven temperature by 25°F to slow the baking process without compromising the texture.

Cooling is crucial for the best texture. After removing the bars from the oven, let them cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes before transferring them to the refrigerator. This helps to prevent condensation from forming on the surface. For best results, allow the bars to chill for at least two hours, or even overnight, to fully set the flavors and texture.

Ingredients

For the Crust

1 cup of chocolate cookie crumbs
1/4 cup of unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons of sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling

16 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup of sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
1 cup of fresh raspberries

For Topping

1/4 cup of fresh raspberries
Chocolate shavings (optional)

Preparation Steps

Instructions

Prepare the Crust

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine chocolate cookie crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9x9 inch baking pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and set aside to cool.

Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Lastly, combine in the vanilla extract and gently fold in the raspberries.

Combine and Bake

Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Bake for 30 minutes until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly. Remove from the oven and allow to cool at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours.

Serve and Enjoy

Once chilled, cut the bars into squares and top with the remaining fresh raspberries and chocolate shavings if desired. Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars!

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an added touch, you can drizzle some melted chocolate over the top just before serving. It not only enhances the presentation but also adds extra chocolate flavor which is always a hit!

Serving Suggestions

Presenting your Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars beautifully elevates the dessert experience. When serving, consider plating them on a simple white dish to make the colors pop. Garnishing with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzling of chocolate sauce can add an extra flair. For an elegant touch, pair bars with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, which complements the rich chocolate notes perfectly.

Cutting the bars into uniform squares can improve their presentation. For the cleanest cuts, use a sharp knife and wipe it between cuts to avoid mess. If you're offering these bars at a gathering, consider serving them with toothpicks for easy enjoyment, especially if you want to avoid dishware.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

These cheesecake bars store remarkably well! After they're fully chilled, you can cover them with plastic wrap and keep them in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you want to freeze them, cut the bars and layer them in an airtight container, separated by parchment paper to avoid sticking. They can be frozen for up to three months, making them a great make-ahead option for special occasions.

When you're ready to enjoy the frozen bars, transfer them to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. This gentle thawing process will help maintain their creamy texture, ensuring they taste just as delicious as when freshly made. Avoid microwaving to defrost, as this can alter the cheesecake's consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These cheesecake bars can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve.

→ Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh?

Frozen raspberries can be used, but be aware that they may release more moisture during baking, which can affect the texture slightly.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.

→ Is there a gluten-free option for the crust?

Yes! You can substitute the chocolate cookie crumbs with gluten-free cookies or a gluten-free graham cracker alternative.