Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars

Name: Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; ¼ cup sugar; 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened; ¾ cup sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup fresh raspberries; ¼ cup chocolate chips; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Highlighted under: Home Baking Ideas

I absolutely love making these Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars because they combine rich chocolate and tangy raspberries into a creamy dessert that’s always a hit. Every time I serve them, I’m met with delighted faces! The process is simple yet rewarding, and the vibrant colors make them a beautiful addition to any gathering. Plus, each bite offers a perfect balance of sweet and tart, making these bars an indulgent treat that everyone will crave again and again.

Created by

Sophie Adams

Last updated on 2026-01-13T01:13:36.062Z

When I first experimented with these bars, the combination of chocolate and raspberry struck me as perfect. The tartness of the raspberries cuts through the richness of the cheesecake, creating a harmonious blend that excites the palate. I found that using fresh raspberries instead of jam enhances both flavor and texture, making each bite memorable.

Another aspect that surprised me was how easy it is to create the cheesecake layer. By using cream cheese at room temperature, I achieved a smooth and creamy consistency without any lumps. These little tips have made my Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars a delightful success time and time again, and I'm thrilled to share the recipe!

        Why You'll Love These Bars
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh raspberry tang
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The crust of these Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars is built using chocolate cookie crumbs, which add a delightful richness and depth of flavor. When combined with melted butter and sugar, the crumbs form a cohesive mixture that not only binds together well but also enhances the chocolate flavor throughout the dessert. Make sure the cookie crumbs are finely crushed to achieve a smooth surface. If you don’t have chocolate cookies, regular digestive biscuits or graham crackers can be used, although it will slightly alter the final flavor profile.

The cream cheese filling is the star of this recipe, providing a silky texture that balances the sweetness of the chocolate and the tartness of the raspberries. Using room-temperature cream cheese is crucial as it blends smoothly, avoiding any lumps. If you want to keep the bars lighter, consider using reduced-fat cream cheese, but be aware that this might affect the creaminess slightly. I always recommend folding in the raspberries gently to preserve their shape and ensure they distribute evenly without turning the filling into a pink hue.

Tips for Perfect Baking

When baking the bars, keep a close eye on the cheese filling. The ideal baking time is around 30 minutes, but start checking after 25 minutes. The cheesecake will look slightly puffed up and the edges should appear set while the center might still look a little wobbly. Don't worry if it doesn’t seem perfectly firm right out of the oven; it will continue to set as it cools. Undercooking slightly can help maintain a creamy texture, while overbaking can lead to cracks and a dry filling.

After baking, allow the bars to cool to room temperature before refrigerating. This step is important as it helps the filling firm up properly. Cutting the bars while they are still warm can lead to a mess. Instead, refrigerate them for at least two hours—or overnight for best results—so they develop a firmer texture and are easier to slice. To cut, use a sharp knife dipped in warm water for clean edges, enhancing presentation.

Ingredients

Crust

1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
¼ cup sugar

Cheesecake Filling

2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
¾ cup sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup fresh raspberries

Topping

¼ cup chocolate chips
1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Prepare the Crust

Preheat your 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 and then remove from oven to cool.

Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract. Gently fold in fresh raspberries. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust.

Bake the Bars

Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the center is set. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.

Prepare the Topping

In a small saucepan, melt chocolate chips and butter over low heat, stirring until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cheesecake filling.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into bars. Enjoy your Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars chilled!

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

Using fresh raspberries adds vibrant flavor and color. Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth filling.

Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. For a delightful presentation, serve them topped with additional fresh raspberries or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. You can even add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside each slice to elevate the dessert further. A chocolate drizzle or raspberry sauce can also complement the bars beautifully.

If it's a special occasion, consider serving these bars with a glass of dessert wine or sparkling wine, enhancing the experience with a pleasing pairing. The rich chocolate and tangy raspberries work wonderfully with fruity wines or sweeter sparkling options.

Storage and Variations

These cheesecake bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days, making them suitable for make-ahead desserts. If you want to keep them for longer, you can freeze them. Ensure the bars are well-wrapped in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil; they can last in the freezer for about 1-2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.

For an interesting twist, you can swap the raspberries for other berries like blueberries or strawberries, or even incorporate a layer of caramel for added sweetness. Adding a hint of lemon zest to the cheesecake filling can brighten the flavors too, creating a more complex taste profile while still maintaining the original balance of the dessert.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen raspberries?

Yes, but ensure they are thawed and drained properly to avoid excess moisture in the filling.

→ How do I store the cheesecake bars?

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

→ Can I make the crust ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the crust a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator before adding the filling.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can use mascarpone cheese as a smoother alternative, although it may alter the flavor slightly.