Elegant Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients:
- For the Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (optional, for sweetness)
- For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 2 cups cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (adds brightness)
- For the Raspberry Swirl:
- 1/2 cup raspberry preserves
- 1 tablespoon fresh raspberries, mashed (for a fresher taste)
- For Garnish:
- Fresh raspberries
- Whipped cream
- Lemon zest
- Mint leaves (optional, for a pop of color)
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar (if using). Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Let it cool.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon juice for added depth.
- Assemble: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust. In a small bowl, combine the raspberry preserves with the mashed fresh raspberries. Drop spoonfuls over the cheesecake layer and use a knife or skewer to create a beautiful swirl.
- Bake: Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and crack the door, letting the cheesecake cool in the oven for an additional 15-20 minutes. This helps prevent cracks.
- Cool and Chill: Remove from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
- Serve: Lift the cheesecake bars out of the pan using the parchment paper. Slice into bars and garnish with fresh raspberries, whipped cream, lemon zest, and mint leaves for a vibrant presentation.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Chill Time: 4 hours | Servings: 12 bars | Approx. 350 kcal per bar
Enjoy your beautifully enhanced Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake Bars! 🍇💖
