White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe

If you're a fan of cheesecake and can't resist the combination of creamy white chocolate and tangy raspberries, then you're in for a treat! These White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars are a dessert that hits all the right notes – sweet, creamy, rich, and refreshingly fruity. Perfect for any occasion, whether it's a family gathering, a party, or simply a special treat for yourself. Read on to learn how to make these delicious bars, complete with helpful tips, substitutions, and variations to suit your taste. Let's dive into this delightful recipe and create a dessert that's sure to impress!

What are White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars?

White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars are a decadent, dessert bar variation of traditional cheesecake. Instead of baking a whole cheesecake, the filling is layered over a buttery graham cracker crust, baked in a sheet pan, and then sliced into individual portions. These bars are rich, creamy, and packed with the flavor of white chocolate. Swirls of raspberry jam or fresh raspberries add a beautiful contrast of tangy sweetness, creating a visually stunning and delicious treat.

Ingredients List for White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars

Before we start, gather all the ingredients you'll need to whip up these decadent cheesecake bars. Here's what you’ll need for the graham cracker crust, cheesecake filling, and raspberry swirl:

For the Crust:

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 14 whole graham crackers)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup sour cream
• 6 oz white chocolate, melted and cooled slightly

For the Raspberry Swirl:

• ⅓ cup raspberry jam or preserves (seedless for a smoother texture)
• Fresh raspberries (optional for garnish)

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about cheesecake bars is their versatility. If you don't have some of the ingredients or want to customize the recipe to your liking, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can try:

• Crust Variations: Instead of graham crackers, you can use crushed digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even Oreo cookies for a more indulgent flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: To make the crust gluten-free, use gluten-free graham crackers or any gluten-free cookie crumbs.
• White Chocolate Substitution: If you're not a fan of white chocolate, you can substitute it with milk chocolate or dark chocolate. This will slightly change the flavor but still result in a delicious dessert.
• Berry Variations: Instead of raspberries, feel free to use other berries like strawberries, blackberries, or blueberries. The jam can also be swapped out for a different fruit preserve.
• Sugar Alternatives: If you're looking to cut back on sugar, you can use a sugar substitute like Stevia or a low-sugar jam.
• Lighter Option: For a lighter version, you can substitute the full-fat cream cheese and sour cream with their light or reduced-fat counterparts.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you've got your ingredients ready, it's time to start baking! Follow these steps for a perfect batch of White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars:

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal later.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
3. Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust. Use the back of a measuring cup or your hands to press it down.
4. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then set it aside to cool slightly while you prepare the cheesecake filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream until fully combined.
4. Gradually add the melted white chocolate, mixing on low speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Assemble the Cheesecake Bars

1. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
2. In a small bowl, microwave the raspberry jam for 10-15 seconds to soften it slightly. Drop small spoonfuls of the jam over the cheesecake filling.
3. Use a toothpick or knife to gently swirl the jam into the cheesecake layer, creating a marbled effect.
4. Optional: Scatter a few fresh raspberries over the top for added texture and flavor.

Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake Bars

1. Bake the cheesecake bars in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are slightly golden.
2. Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.

How to Cook White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking these bars requires patience and precision. Here's a breakdown of the key points to keep in mind for each step:

1. Preheating the Oven: Always preheat your oven before baking to ensure even cooking.
2. Baking the Crust: The crust needs to be pre-baked to give it structure, ensuring it holds up when the cheesecake filling is added.
3. Mixing the Filling: Be sure to use softened cream cheese to avoid lumps in your filling. Also, mix the ingredients on low speed to avoid over-incorporating air, which can cause cracks during baking.
4. Swirling the Raspberry Jam: Be gentle with the swirling to create a beautiful marbled effect. Too much swirling will blend the jam into the cheesecake, losing the distinct swirl pattern.
5. Baking the Bars: Bake until the edges are slightly golden and the center is set but still a little jiggly. Overbaking can lead to cracks.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best bakers can sometimes run into issues when making cheesecake bars. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your dessert turns out perfectly:

• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can cause too much air to get trapped in the filling, leading to cracks and a less creamy texture.
• Overbaking: It’s tempting to leave the cheesecake in the oven until the center is firm, but it should still be slightly jiggly when you take it out. The residual heat will finish cooking it.
• Skipping the Cooling Process: Cheesecake needs time to set, and rushing this step can result in bars that are too soft and difficult to slice.
• Swirling Too Much: When swirling the raspberry jam, less is more. Over-swirling can make the jam blend into the cheesecake instead of giving you those beautiful marbled patterns.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation is key when serving these stunning White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars. Here are some tips to make them look as good as they taste:

• Chill Before Slicing: Always chill your cheesecake bars for at least 4 hours before slicing. This ensures clean, sharp edges when cutting.
• Use a Sharp Knife: For neat, professional-looking bars, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts.
• Add a Garnish: Fresh raspberries, a drizzle of melted white chocolate, or a dusting of powdered sugar can add a finishing touch.
• Plating: Serve the bars on a plate with a dollop of whipped cream and a fresh raspberry for an elegant dessert presentation.

How to Serve White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars

These cheesecake bars are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways depending on the occasion:

• Casual Gatherings: Simply cut the bars into squares or rectangles and serve them on a platter.
• Formal Occasions: Serve each bar individually on a dessert plate with a swirl of raspberry sauce and a garnish of mint or white chocolate shavings.

Presentation Ideas for White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars

1. Raspberry Garnish: Place a fresh raspberry or two on top of each cheesecake bar for a pop of color.
2. Drizzled White Chocolate: Melt some additional white chocolate and drizzle it over the top of the bars for an extra indulgent look.
3. Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream to each bar for a light and fluffy complement to the rich cheesecake.

White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe Tips

• Plan Ahead: These bars are best when made a day in advance. This allows the flavors to meld and the cheesecake to firm up.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature before mixing. This will create a smoother filling.
• Refrigeration Time: Be patient and let the bars chill completely before slicing. This will make cutting them easier and prevent the filling from being too soft.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I freeze White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars?
A: Yes, you can freeze these cheesecake bars. After they have fully cooled and set, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Q: How long do these cheesecake bars last?
A: They will last up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Q: Can I make these cheesecake bars without a crust?
A: Yes, you can skip the crust if you prefer. Just be sure to line your pan well so the cheesecake doesn’t stick.

Q: Can I use fresh raspberries instead of raspberry jam?
A: Yes! You can mash fresh raspberries with a bit of sugar to create a jam-like consistency, or simply use them whole in the recipe.

Conclusion

There you have it – a perfect recipe for White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars! These delicious bars are sure to be a hit at any event or gathering, combining the smooth richness of cheesecake with the sweet-tart flavors of raspberry and white chocolate. Whether you're making them for a casual weekend treat or a special celebration, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share this sweet delight with your loved ones!

Print