These Raspberry Lemon Swirl Cheesecake Bars combine the tangy flavors of lemon and raspberry with a smooth, creamy cheesecake filling, all atop a buttery graham cracker crust. The lemon zest in the crust adds a bright citrus note, while the raspberry swirl on top not only looks stunning but also provides a burst of fruity flavor in every bite. These bars are the perfect combination of sweet, tart, and creamy, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
You’ll love these cheesecake bars because they offer a delightful balance of flavors and textures. The creamy cheesecake filling is perfectly complemented by the tart raspberry swirl and the buttery graham cracker crust. The lemon adds a refreshing tang that cuts through the richness of the cream cheese, making each bite light and flavorful. These bars are easy to make and look beautiful, making them an impressive dessert for any gathering.
Perfect Occasion:
These Raspberry Lemon Swirl Cheesecake Bars are perfect for any occasion where you want to serve an elegant yet easy-to-make dessert. They’re great for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or as a special treat for a weekend get-together. The bright, summery flavors of lemon and raspberry make them especially suited for spring and summer events, but they’re a delicious treat that can be enjoyed year-round. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, a dinner party, or simply indulging in a sweet craving, these cheesecake bars are sure to be a hit.
Decoration Tips:
For a beautiful presentation, consider garnishing the bars with fresh raspberries and a sprinkle of lemon zest just before serving. You can also dust the top with a light coating of powdered sugar for a touch of elegance. If you want to add a bit of texture and flavor contrast, a drizzle of white chocolate over the top can complement the tartness of the raspberry and lemon. For a festive touch, consider adding a few edible flowers or mint leaves on top.
Ingredients:
For the Graham Cracker Crust:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (about 9 rectangles, ground in a food processor)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest
For the Raspberry Swirl:
- 1/2 cup frozen or fresh raspberries
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water)
For the Lemon Cheesecake:
- 2 cups (16 oz) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1/4 cup sour cream, room temperature
Instructions:
- Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and fresh lemon zest. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated with butter and the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8x8 inch parchment-lined baking pan. Freeze the crust for about 30 minutes to set.
- Make the Raspberry Swirl:
- In a small saucepan, combine the raspberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the raspberries break down and release their juices, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the cornstarch slurry and continue to cook for another minute until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
- Once cooled, strain the raspberry mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove the seeds, resulting in a smooth coulis.
- Prepare the Lemon Cheesecake:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add the granulated sugar, lemon juice, and sour cream, and mix until fully combined and smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs together, then gently fold them into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix to keep the batter light.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the chilled graham cracker crust, spreading it out evenly.
- Spoon the raspberry coulis over the surface of the cheesecake batter in small dollops. Use a skewer or butter knife to swirl the raspberry mixture into the cheesecake, creating a marbled effect.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle when gently shaken.
- Cool and Chill:
- Allow the cheesecake bars to cool to room temperature in the pan. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to fully set before slicing.
Enjoy!
These Raspberry Lemon Swirl Cheesecake Bars are a perfect combination of tart and sweet flavors with a creamy texture that will make every bite delightful. Ideal for any occasion, these bars are sure to impress with both their taste and appearance.