Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars

Name: Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 16 bars
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; ¾ cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ½ cup sour cream; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted; 1 cup fresh raspberries

Highlighted under: Simple Baking Collection

I absolutely love making these Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars for gatherings. The luscious layers of creamy cheesecake infused with tangy raspberry and rich chocolate create a decadent treat that never fails to impress. It's the perfect balance of sweet and tart, all within a buttery graham cracker crust. I also love how simple the recipe is—just a few ingredients and minimal baking time yield such a showstopper. Trust me, once you try these bars, they'll become a go-to for any special occasion or a delightful indulgence during the week!

Created by

Matilda Rowe

Last updated on 2026-01-13T01:55:35.585Z

When I first attempted to make these Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars, I was amazed at how easy it was to combine such rich flavors. The key is to use fresh raspberries, which provide a vibrant burst of flavor that complements the creamy chocolate cheesecake perfectly. I remember the moment I took them out of the fridge and saw the beautiful marbled effect; it was a feast for the eyes even before the first bite!

Over the years, I’ve experimented with various methods, but the trick that always works for me is to ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature. This allows it to blend more smoothly with the sugars and chocolate, resulting in a velvety texture. I’ve also found that letting the bars chill overnight enhances the flavors, making them even more irresistible when served cold.

Why You'll Love These Bars
Decadent layers of chocolate and fresh raspberries
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying solo
Visually stunning with their beautiful swirl pattern

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in these Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars plays a crucial role in the final product. The graham cracker crumbs form a butter-rich crust that perfectly complements the creamy filling, providing a delightful crunch. Unsalted butter is preferred to allow for better control of the salt content, which is key to enhancing the overall flavor profile. The sugar contributes not just sweetness but also helps browning, giving the crust a beautiful golden hue as it bakes.

The cheesecake filling consists primarily of cream cheese, which is the backbone of its creamy texture. When selecting cream cheese, opt for full-fat varieties for the best results, as these yield a richer and smoother filling. Incorporating sour cream not only adds a tangy depth but also helps in achieving a luxurious velvety mouthfeel. When mixing, ensure that the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps that can impact the final texture.

Mastering the Baking Process

Baking the cheesecake bars requires careful attention to the oven temperature and timing. A preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) is essential for even baking; an oven thermometer can help maintain accurate temperatures, which is particularly important for cheesecakes. Watch closely during the final minutes—the edges should appear set while the center maintains a slight jiggle. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture, ruining the creamy quality that makes these bars so delightful.

Cooling is another critical step. Allow the bars to come to room temperature before refrigerating them to prevent condensation from forming on the surface. Covering the pan tightly with plastic wrap is recommended after they’re cooled, allowing them to set for at least four hours, or ideally overnight. This chilling time enhances the flavors as they meld and creates a firmer texture for easier slicing.

Ingredients

For the crust

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
¼ cup granulated sugar

For the cheesecake filling

16 oz cream cheese, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ cup sour cream
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted
1 cup fresh raspberries

Instructions

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.

Prepare the crust

In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.

Make the filling

In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add in eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla and sour cream.

Add chocolate and raspberries

Fold in the melted chocolate until fully incorporated. Gently stir in the fresh raspberries, being careful not to break them.

Combine and bake

Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.

Cool and serve

Allow the bars to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. Once chilled, lift out using the parchment paper, slice into squares, and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of raspberry flavor, you can top the bars with a simple raspberry sauce made by pureeing fresh raspberries with a bit of sugar and straining out the seeds.

Serving and Pairing Ideas

These decadent bars are perfect for serving at a gathering, but they can also be enjoyed solo with a cup of coffee or tea. Consider dusting them with a light sprinkle of cocoa powder or powdered sugar for an elegant presentation. You can also serve them with a dollop of whipped cream and a few extra raspberries on top for a burst of freshness that pairs beautifully with the rich chocolate and cheese.

For added flair, consider drizzling some dark chocolate or raspberry sauce over the top just before serving. Pairing with a scoop of vanilla ice cream can create a delightful contrast in temperatures and textures, elevating the dessert experience further. Their rich flavors allow them to stand up well against a variety of beverages, from dessert wines to rich coffees.

Storage Tips and Variations

These Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days, making them a great option for meal prep or enjoying as a sweet treat throughout the week. For longer storage, freeze the bars. Slice them first, then wrap each piece tightly with plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container. They can be enjoyed for up to three months if stored properly. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving for best results.

For variations, consider swapping out fresh raspberries for other berries like strawberries or blueberries. You can also experiment with flavoring the cheesecake filling by adding a teaspoon of almond or orange extract for a different taste profile. For a fun twist, mix in some crushed nuts or a swirl of caramel sauce into the filling before baking for added texture and flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen raspberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the cheesecake filling.

→ How should I store the bars?

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

→ Can I make these bars gluten-free?

You can substitute graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free crumbs or almond flour to make them gluten-free.

→ How do I know when the cheesecake is done baking?

It’s done when the edges appear set but the center is still slightly jiggly. It will firm up as it cools.