Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, the vibrancy of fresh raspberries caught my eye, signaling that summer was in full swing. The thought of crafting Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars filled me with excitement, promising a treat that would not only please my family but also elevate our dessert game this season. These bars feature a buttery shortbread crust paired with a luscious cream cheese layer and a glossy raspberry topping, creating a delightful balance that’s perfect for those warm summer gatherings. Not only are they a breeze to whip up, but they’re also wonderfully refreshing, making them an ideal alternative to heavy, store-bought sweets. Curious about how to bring this fruity indulgence to your table? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why Are Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars Perfect? Irresistible Delight: These bars seamlessly blend rich cream cheese with sweet, juicy raspberries, creating a mouthwatering dessert that’s hard to resist. Simple Preparation: With just a few steps, you can create a stunning treat that impresses everyone, making it a go-to for summer picnics or potlucks. Versatile Flavor: Not just limited to raspberries, feel free to experiment with other berries like blueberries or strawberries for a delightful twist! Refreshing and Light: Perfect for hot summer days, the creamy filling topped with a fruity glaze offers a refreshing alternative to heavier desserts. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Ideal for family gatherings or casual barbecues, these bars are sure to be the star of the dessert table! Once you try these Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars, you’ll be tempted to explore more fruity delights, such as Lemon Raspberry Cookies or even try making some Blueberry Cheesecake Bars for variety! Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars Ingredients • Create a symphony of flavors and textures with these must-have ingredients! For the Crust Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and tenderness to the crust; substitute with margarine if desired. Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps create a smooth texture; regular granulated sugar can be used, but it may result in a grainier texture. Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile; use pure vanilla extract for the best results. Egg Yolk – Contributes to the richness of the crust; this ingredient cannot be substituted with egg whites. All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to the crust; consider using a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version. Milk or Cream – Adds moisture to the crust; can be substituted with non-dairy milk for a lactose-free option. For the Raspberry Glaze Water – Used to create the raspberry glaze which adds a refreshing touch. Cornstarch – Acts as a thickening agent for the glaze; arrowroot powder can be used as an alternative. Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the raspberry layer; can be replaced with a sugar substitute for a lower-calorie option. Raspberry Jell-O – Adds flavor and color to the raspberry layer; homemade raspberry puree can be used instead for a natural option. Fresh Raspberries – The star ingredient providing juicy and sweet flavor; frozen raspberries can be used in a pinch—just thaw and drain excess moisture. For the Cream Cheese Layer Cream Cheese – Creates the creamy cheesecake layer; for a lighter version, opt for reduced-fat cream cheese. Heavy Cream – Adds a luxurious texture to the cream cheese layer, allowing it to fluff up; half and half can be used but will yield a denser texture. Gather these ingredients to create your own stunning Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars that will make your summer gatherings unforgettable! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars Step 1: Prepare the Shortbread Crust Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, cream together ½ cup of unsalted butter and ½ cup of powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add 1 tsp of vanilla extract and 1 egg yolk, mixing until fully combined. Gradually incorporate 1 cup of all-purpose flour and 1 tbsp of milk, ensuring a uniform dough. Press this mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden. Step 2: Make the Raspberry Glaze While the crust is baking, prepare the raspberry glaze. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine ½ cup of water, 2 tbsp of cornstarch, ¼ cup of granulated sugar, and 3 oz of raspberry Jell-O. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle boil, about 5 minutes. Once thickened, remove from heat and gently fold in 1 cup of fresh raspberries. Set aside to cool slightly while you prepare the cream cheese layer. Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer In a separate mixing bowl, beat 8 oz of cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add ½ cup of powdered sugar and 1 tsp of vanilla extract, mixing until well blended. In another bowl, whip ½ cup of heavy cream until soft peaks form, then gently fold this into the cream cheese mixture. The result should be light and fluffy, ready to top your cooled crust with a luscious layer of creaminess. Step 4: Layer & Chill After the shortbread crust has cooled completely, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crust with a spatula. Carefully layer the cooled raspberry glaze over the cream cheese layer, creating a beautiful top. Refrigerate the assembled Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars for at least 2 hours, or until set. Once firm, slice into squares and serve chilled for a refreshing summer dessert that your family will love. How to Store and Freeze Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars Fridge: Keep your Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This ensures they stay fresh while the flavors blend beautifully over time. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bars in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the bars in the refrigerator overnight. This slow thawing helps maintain their creamy texture. Reheating: Serve chilled straight from the fridge for a refreshing dessert experience; avoid reheating as it may affect the creamy consistency. Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars Variations Feel free to get creative with these delightful Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars to match your taste or dietary preferences! Berry Swap: Replace the raspberries with blueberries or strawberries for a fresh flavor twist. Citrus Zing: Add 1 tbsp of lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture for a bright, tangy pop. Nutty Crunch: Incorporate ½ cup of finely chopped nuts like pecans or almonds in the crust for added texture. Swap the Sweetener: Use honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar for a natural sweetener option. Choco-Lover’s Delight: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the raspberry glaze for a delightful chocolatey touch. Dairy-Free Alternative: Substitute cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese and use coconut cream for a non-dairy version. Frozen Raspberry Bars: Turn these bars into a refreshing frozen treat; simply freeze after layering and enjoy as an icy dessert on hot days. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes to the raspberry glaze for a surprising heat that balances the sweetness. With each variation, the possibilities are endless! If you’re a fan of fruity desserts, don’t miss out on delicious treats like Blueberry Cheesecake Bars or even try creating some tangy Lemon Cream Cheese goodies to impress your loved ones! Expert Tips for Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars Butter Temperature: Ensure your butter is at room temperature; it helps achieve a smooth crust when creaming with sugar. Cool Before Cutting: Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing; it prevents messy edges and ensures clean cuts. Fresh Raspberries: Use fresh raspberries for the best flavor and texture; avoid overly ripe or mushy ones for a sturdy topping. Alternate Flours: If needed, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend; ensure it’s a 1:1 replacement for best results. Storage Solutions: Store the Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars in the refrigerator for up to 5 days; they can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Make Ahead Options These Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars are perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, allowing you to enjoy delicious homemade treats with less stress! You can prepare the shortbread crust and raspberry glaze up to 24 hours in advance by simply covering them tightly in the refrigerator. To maintain the quality and texture, ensure the crust is fully cooled before layering with the cream cheese mixture. When you’re ready to serve, whip up the cream cheese layer and assemble the bars just before chilling them for another 2 hours to set. This makes it a breeze to have stunning desserts on hand, making your life easier while delighting your family! What to Serve with Irresistible Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars Imagine a sun-kissed afternoon where sweet, fruity desserts complement the laughter and joy of summer gatherings. Crisp Garden Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances the rich creaminess of the bars wonderfully. Lemon Sorbet: The bright, zesty flavors of lemon sorbet provide a palate-cleansing contrast, enhancing the raspberry’s sweetness. Iced Tea: A chilled glass of sweetened iced tea, perhaps with a hint of mint, cools you down and complements the dessert perfectly. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: These add a touch of decadence and a contrasting flavor profile that pairs beautifully with the tangy raspberry bars. Grilled Peaches: Serve warm grilled peaches drizzled with honey for a summery touch that echoes the fruitiness of the dessert. Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: The caramelized sweetness and buttery richness of this cake create a delightful juxtaposition to the tartness of the raspberry. Mango Lassi: This creamy, yogurt-based drink adds a tropical twist, cooling down the palate while harmonizing with the berry flavors. Fresh Berries: A medley of mixed berries served on the side enhances the fruitiness, creating a colorful and vibrant plate. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream lends a classic touch, complementing the tart raspberry with its creamy sweetness. Mint Lemonade: Refreshing mint lemonade adds a zingy twist and boosts the overall summer vibe, making a lovely drink pairing. Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars Recipe FAQs What type of raspberries should I use for the best flavor? For the best flavor, always choose fresh raspberries that are firm and vibrant in color. Avoid any that have dark spots or are overly ripe, as these can become mushy and negatively impact the texture of your bars. If fresh raspberries aren’t available, you can substitute with frozen ones; just be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before using. How should I store my Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars? Store your Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Keeping them covered helps maintain their freshness and allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If you have leftovers, simply slice and enjoy them chilled for a refreshing dessert any time! Can I freeze my Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars? Absolutely! To freeze your Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars, place them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight to preserve their creamy texture before serving. Why did my cream cheese layer turn out too dense? If your cream cheese layer is too dense, it could be due to overmixing the cream cheese or insufficient whipping of the heavy cream. To achieve that light and fluffy texture, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form, and then gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture instead of mixing vigorously, which can break the air bubbles. Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? Yes! If you’re making these Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars for someone with dietary restrictions, consider the following alternatives: use gluten-free flour for those avoiding gluten, swap in non-dairy milk for lactose-free options, and choose reduced-fat cream cheese for a lighter version. Always check labels for any additional allergens specific to your guests. What can I do if I have leftover raspberry glaze? If you find yourself with leftover raspberry glaze, don’t worry! It makes a fantastic topping for pancakes, waffles, or yogurt. You can also drizzle it over ice cream or use it as a fruit dip. Store any remaining glaze in the refrigerator for up to a week. Delicious Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars for Your Summer Delight These Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars are a refreshing dessert perfect for summer gatherings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsChilling Time 2 hours hrsTotal Time 2 hours hrs 50 minutes mins Servings: 16 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Crust½ cup Unsalted Butter Provides richness and tenderness½ cup Powdered Sugar Adds sweetness and smooth texture1 tsp Vanilla Extract Enhances flavor1 each Egg Yolk Contributes richness1 cup All-Purpose Flour Gives structure to the crust1 tbsp Milk or Cream Adds moistureFor the Raspberry Glaze½ cup Water Used for the glaze2 tbsp Cornstarch Acts as a thickening agent¼ cup Granulated Sugar Sweetens raspberry layer3 oz Raspberry Jell-O Adds flavor and color1 cup Fresh Raspberries Provides juicy flavorFor the Cream Cheese Layer8 oz Cream Cheese Creates the creamy layer½ cup Heavy Cream Adds luxurious texture Equipment Mixing bowlsaucepanBaking dish Method Prepare the Shortbread CrustPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cream together ½ cup of unsalted butter and ½ cup of powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add 1 tsp of vanilla extract and 1 egg yolk, mixing until fully combined. Gradually incorporate 1 cup of all-purpose flour and 1 tbsp of milk. Press this mixture into a 9x9-inch greased baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden.Make the Raspberry GlazeIn a saucepan over medium heat, combine ½ cup of water, 2 tbsp of cornstarch, ¼ cup of granulated sugar, and 3 oz of raspberry Jell-O. Stir continuously until thickened and boiling, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and fold in 1 cup of fresh raspberries. Set aside to cool.Prepare the Cream Cheese LayerBeat 8 oz of cream cheese until smooth. Gradually mix in ½ cup of powdered sugar and 1 tsp of vanilla extract. Whip ½ cup of heavy cream until soft peaks form and fold into the cream cheese mixture.Layer & ChillSpread the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust. Layer the raspberry glaze on top. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until set, then slice into squares and serve chilled. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 3gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 18gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesStore in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
