White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe

If you love creamy, decadent desserts, then this White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars recipe is for you! This dessert brings together the sweet richness of white chocolate, the tangy freshness of raspberries, and the silky texture of cheesecake, all layered into perfect bars. Whether you're making them for a special occasion or just because you crave something delicious, these bars are guaranteed to impress. Read on to discover every step to make this irresistible dessert in your kitchen.

this Recipe

What are White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars?

White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars are a delightful twist on the classic cheesecake, combining a crunchy crust, smooth cheesecake filling infused with white chocolate, and a tangy raspberry swirl. These bars offer the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, making them an elegant dessert for any gathering. Unlike traditional cheesecakes, which can be a bit labor-intensive, cheesecake bars are easier to make and serve. Plus, the beautiful contrast of colors from the creamy white chocolate and vibrant raspberries makes them visually stunning.

Ingredients List for White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars

For the Crust:

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

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 8 oz white chocolate, chopped
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour

For the Raspberry Swirl:

• 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
• 2 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Substitutions and Variations

• Crust Alternatives: While graham cracker crumbs are traditional, you can switch it up by using Oreo cookie crumbs for a chocolatey twist or digestive biscuits for a milder flavor.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and use vegan white chocolate. Ensure that the butter in the crust is also substituted with a plant-based version.
• Low-Sugar Version: If you're watching your sugar intake, you can use a sugar substitute like Stevia or Monk Fruit in both the crust and filling. Opt for sugar-free white chocolate if available.
• Gluten-Free Option: For those with gluten sensitivities, you can use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust and ensure that the white chocolate is gluten-free as well.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing the paper to hang over the edges for easy removal later.
2. Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs and sugar together. Pour in the melted butter and stir until everything is evenly combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan, forming an even layer. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until lightly golden. Set aside to cool while you prepare the filling.
3. Prepare the Raspberry Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the raspberries, sugar, water, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the raspberries break down and the mixture thickens. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Strain the sauce through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the seeds and set aside.
4. Melt the White Chocolate: Use a double boiler or microwave to melt the white chocolate. If using a microwave, melt in 20-second intervals, stirring between each to avoid burning the chocolate. Set the melted chocolate aside to cool slightly.
5. Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the sugar and continue beating until light and fluffy. Next, beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the vanilla extract, sour cream, and flour, and beat until smooth. Finally, stir in the melted white chocolate.
6. Assemble the Cheesecake Bars: Pour the cheesecake filling over the pre-baked crust, spreading it into an even layer. Spoon the raspberry sauce on top of the filling in dollops, then use a toothpick or knife to swirl the sauce into the cheesecake, creating a marbled effect.
7. Bake: Bake the cheesecake bars for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is just set and the edges are slightly golden. It’s okay if the middle is a bit jiggly, as it will firm up while cooling.
8. Cool and Chill: Allow the bars to cool at room temperature for about 1 hour, then transfer them to the fridge to chill for at least 3 hours, or overnight for best results.
9. Slice and Serve: Once fully chilled, use the overhanging parchment paper to lift the cheesecake out of the pan. Slice into bars using a sharp knife, wiping the knife clean between cuts for neat edges.

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

1. Preheat your oven and prep your pan with parchment paper. This ensures an even bake and easy removal.
2. Prepare your graham cracker crust by mixing the crumbs with sugar and butter, pressing firmly into the pan for a solid base.
3. Create the raspberry sauce by cooking down fresh or frozen raspberries with sugar and water, adding lemon juice for a slight tang. Strain for a smooth, seed-free sauce.
4. Melt white chocolate and allow it to cool slightly so it can blend smoothly into the cream cheese mixture.
5. Beat the cheesecake filling ingredients until smooth and creamy, incorporating the white chocolate last for a luxurious texture.
6. Swirl the raspberry sauce into the cheesecake filling for a beautiful marbled effect before baking to perfection.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overbaking: The cheesecake should be slightly jiggly in the center when you remove it from the oven. Overbaking can lead to a dry and cracked surface.
2. Skipping the Chill Time: It can be tempting to dig in right away, but the bars need sufficient time to cool and set in the fridge for a firm texture.
3. Using Cold Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps in the cheesecake batter.
4. Not Melting the Chocolate Correctly: If white chocolate gets too hot, it can seize up. Melt it slowly and gently to maintain its smooth consistency.
5. Neglecting the Crust: Press the crust firmly into the pan to prevent crumbling when slicing the bars.

Serving and Presentation Tips

When it comes to serving your White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars, a little attention to detail can elevate the dessert even further.

• How to Serve White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars: Serve these bars chilled, preferably straight from the refrigerator. They are perfect for afternoon tea, dessert after dinner, or as a sweet treat for a party. Pair them with a fresh raspberry garnish and perhaps a drizzle of melted white chocolate over the top.
• Presentation Ideas for White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars: Arrange the bars on a white platter to let the vibrant raspberry swirl stand out. You can also dust them lightly with powdered sugar or garnish with fresh mint leaves. For a more sophisticated look, plate each bar individually with a side of whipped cream or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream.

White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe Tips

1. Use Fresh Raspberries for Garnish: Fresh raspberries not only add a pop of color but also enhance the tangy raspberry flavor.
2. Chill the Bars Overnight: While they only require a few hours to set, chilling them overnight allows the flavors to fully meld and makes the bars easier to slice.
3. Clean Your Knife Between Cuts: This ensures clean, neat edges on each bar, making them look bakery-perfect.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I freeze White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars?
Yes! These bars freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Can I use frozen raspberries?
Absolutely. If you don't have fresh raspberries on hand, frozen ones work just as well. Just make sure to strain out the extra liquid after cooking them down.

How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?
Avoid overbaking, and ensure your ingredients (especially cream cheese) are at room temperature before mixing. Additionally, don’t open the oven door while the bars are baking as this can cause a sudden change in temperature, leading to cracks.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars are an excellent make-ahead dessert. They need time to chill, so making them a day or two in advance is perfect.

Conclusion

White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars are a delectable combination of sweet and tangy flavors that are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. With their rich, creamy filling, vibrant raspberry swirl, and crunchy graham cracker crust, these bars are perfect for any occasion. Whether you're a novice baker or an experienced chef, following these step-by-step instructions will result in a stunning and delicious dessert that looks as amazing as it tastes.

Print