Raspberry Cheesecake Crumble Bars are a delightful layered dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, smooth cheesecake filling, a bright raspberry topping, and a crumbly streusel finish. These bars strike the perfect balance between tangy, creamy, and crunchy, making them a standout choice for parties, brunches, or everyday indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These bars combine the richness of classic cheesecake with the ease of a handheld dessert. The tartness of the raspberries cuts through the creamy filling, while the graham cracker crumble adds texture and warmth. They’re easy to slice, transport well, and are just as delicious cold from the fridge as they are at room temperature. Whether you’re entertaining or just craving something sweet, these bars offer elegance without complexity.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the crust and crumble:

• graham cracker crumbs
• unsalted butter, melted
• granulated sugar
• cinnamon
• salt

For the cheesecake layer:

• cream cheese, softened
• granulated sugar
• vanilla extract
• egg

For the raspberry layer:

• fresh raspberries (or thawed frozen)
• granulated sugar
• cornstarch
• lemon juice

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
3. Press about 3/4 of this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust. Reserve the remaining mixture for the crumble topping.
4. In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and egg until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Pour and spread this evenly over the crust.
5. In a small saucepan, combine raspberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens slightly.
6. Spoon the raspberry mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer.
7. Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture evenly over the top to form a streusel.
8. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are golden.
9. Allow to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing into bars.
10. Garnish with fresh raspberries if desired before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 9–12 bars, depending on how large you slice them.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Cooling and chilling time: 2 hours
Total time: About 3 hours

Variations

• Berry swap: Use blueberries, blackberries, or a mix of berries for a different flavor.
• Citrus twist: Add lemon or orange zest to the cheesecake layer for a citrusy note.
• Nut crumble: Mix finely chopped pecans or almonds into the crumble topping.
• Chocolate version: Add a layer of mini chocolate chips over the cheesecake layer before the fruit topping.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust to accommodate dietary needs.

Storage/Reheating

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
For best texture, serve chilled or allow to sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving.
These bars can also be frozen: wrap tightly and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating is not necessary; these are best served cold or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use frozen raspberries?

Yes, thaw them first and drain any excess liquid to prevent a watery topping.

Do I need to use graham crackers?

No, you can substitute with crushed digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even shortbread cookies.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, they can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The center should be just set and no longer jiggle when lightly shaken. The edges should be lightly golden.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Adjust the baking time slightly, checking at 40 minutes.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

Mascarpone or Neufchâtel can be used, though they may slightly alter the texture and flavor.

Why did my cheesecake layer crack?

Overbaking or rapid temperature changes can cause cracks. They won’t affect taste and are covered by the topping.

Are these bars suitable for kids?

Absolutely. They’re sweet, fruity, and easy to eat—perfect for both kids and adults.

Can I make a dairy-free version?

Yes, use dairy-free cream cheese, plant-based yogurt instead of egg (or a vegan egg substitute), and vegan butter for the crust.

How should I cut the bars cleanly?

Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts for neat slices.

Conclusion

Raspberry Cheesecake Crumble Bars are an irresistible combination of creamy, fruity, and crunchy. Their beautiful layers make them perfect for both casual and special occasions, and their make-ahead convenience is ideal for stress-free entertaining. With a delightful contrast in texture and flavor, these bars are sure to become a favorite dessert in your rotation.

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