The sun is shining, and the sweet scent of summer is in the air—perfect time to whip up a batch of Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars! With their buttery shortbread crust and creamy, dreamy filling, these fruit bars are a delightful way to embrace the season. Whether you’re hosting a weekend picnic or simply craving a refreshing dessert, this easy raspberry recipe will become your new go-to. Not only are they quick to prepare, but they also offer a vibrant pop of flavor that makes them a crowd-pleaser every time. Ready to turn your kitchen into a summer haven? Let’s dive into these irresistible treats that will surely brighten your dessert table! Why Are Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars So Irresistible? Bright, Fruity Flavor: The vibrant raspberries mixed with creamy cheese create a delightful balance that screams summer! Easy to Make: This no-fuss recipe comes together quickly, making it the perfect dessert for busy days. Lovely Presentation: The rich colors of the raspberry layer atop a golden crust make these bars a showstopper at any gathering. Versatile Option: Feel free to substitute the raspberries with strawberries or blueberries for a fun twist, similar to Chocolate Chip Bars! Crowd-Pleaser: Whether at picnics or dinner parties, these bars are sure to be devoured, leaving everyone wanting more! Make Ahead: Prepare in advance and store in the fridge—it’s a great way to have a delicious treat ready whenever the craving strikes! Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars Ingredients • Enjoy making the sweetest summer dessert with these deliciously tart Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars! For the Shortbread Crust Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and structure to the shortbread crust; margarine can be used for a dairy-free option. Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and a smooth texture; granulated sugar is a good substitute if needed. Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor profile; almond extract can add an interesting twist as an alternative. Egg Yolk – Acts as a binding agent; for a vegan version, substitute with a flax egg. All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to the crust; gluten-free flour blend works perfectly as a substitute. Milk or Cream – Moistens the crust; any non-dairy milk can serve as a substitute. For the Raspberry Layer Water – Dissolves cornstarch in the raspberry layer; no substitutes needed. Cornstarch – Thickens the raspberry mixture for a delightful texture; arrowroot starch is a great alternative. Sugar (for raspberry layer) – Sweetens the raspberries; adjust according to the tartness of the fruit. Raspberry Jell-O – Intensifies flavor and helps set the mixture; consider using a sugar-free version for fewer calories. Fresh Raspberries – Provides flavor and texture; substitute with strawberries or blueberries for a twist. For the Cream Cheese Layer Cream Cheese – Forms the creamy filling; use vegan cream cheese for a plant-based alternative. Heavy Cream – Whipped into lightness for the cream cheese layer; substitute with coconut cream if needed. Feel free to gather these ingredients and prepare for a delightful baking experience that promises to bring smiles to your family and friends! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars Step 1: Prepare Shortbread Crust In a mixing bowl, begin by creaming together 1 cup of unsalted butter with 1 cup of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until the mixture is light and fluffy. Next, incorporate 1 egg yolk, followed by gradually adding 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 2 tablespoons of milk, mixing until a firm dough forms. Press this dough evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Step 2: Bake Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking. Place the prepared shortbread crust into the oven and allow it to bake for about 15 minutes or until the edges turn lightly golden. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack, ensuring a firm base for your Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars. Step 3: Make Raspberry Layer Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup of water and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, stirring until it comes to a gentle boil. Add in 1 cup of sugar, 1 package of Raspberry Jell-O, and 2 cups of fresh raspberries. Continue to cook this mixture on low heat, stirring often, until it thickens—about 5-7 minutes. Once ready, remove from heat and let cool slightly. Step 4: Prepare Cream Cheese Layer In a mixing bowl, beat together 8 ounces of cream cheese, 1 cup of powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. In a separate bowl, whip 1 cup of heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, ensuring it stays light and fluffy for the Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars. Step 5: Assemble Start assembling your dessert by spreading the cream cheese layer evenly over the cooled shortbread crust. Carefully pour the raspberry mixture on top, spreading it out gently to ensure an even layer. Place the assembled dessert in the refrigerator to set, allowing it to chill for at least 1 hour or until firm. Step 6: Serve Once chilled and set, remove the Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars from the refrigerator. Cut them into squares using a sharp knife, wiping the blade between cuts for clean edges. For a delightful touch, garnish the bars with fresh raspberries or a sprinkle of powdered sugar before serving, and enjoy the refreshing taste of summer! What to Serve with Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars Create the perfect summer feast by complementing these delightful bars with fresh and vibrant sides! Lemon Sorbet: This refreshing, icy treat adds a zesty contrast that enhances the fruity notes of the bars. Whipped Cream: A dollop of fluffy whipped cream elevates the creamy layers of the bars, making every bite even more indulgent. Mixed Berry Salad: A light and juicy salad featuring strawberries, blueberries, and mint brings a burst of freshness that pairs beautifully with the raspberry flavor. Mint Iced Tea: A chilled glass of mint iced tea refreshes the palate and balances the rich creaminess of the bars. Chocolate Drizzle: Add an artistic touch by drizzling melted dark chocolate over the bars for a decadent flavor pairing that surprises with every bite. Cheesecake Ice Cream: Creamy cheesecake-flavored ice cream echoes the cream cheese layer, creating a harmonious dessert experience that’s hard to resist. Indulging in these pairings alongside your Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars will transform your summer dessert into a truly memorable gathering! Expert Tips for Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature. This helps achieve a smooth, creamy texture for the shortbread crust. Don’t Rush Setting: Allow the Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars to chill completely in the refrigerator. This is crucial for ensuring the layers firm up nicely and stay intact when cut. Avoid Overmixing: When folding the whipped cream into the cream cheese mix, be gentle. Overmixing can deflate the airiness, resulting in a denser filling. Taste the Raspberries: Adjust the sugar in the raspberry layer based on the tartness of your raspberries. Taste first, as some can be sweeter than others! Clean Cuts: Use a sharp knife for cutting the bars and wipe the blade between cuts for neat edges, showcasing the lovely layers of your Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars. Make Ahead Options These Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the buttery shortbread crust up to 24 hours in advance—just keep it wrapped tightly in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. The raspberry layer can also be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days; let it cool completely before sealing to lock in flavor. When you’re ready to serve, simply whip up the cream cheese layer and assemble everything on the crust. Chill the completed dessert for at least an hour before cutting into squares. This way, you’ll have a delightful summer treat ready to impress your friends and family with minimal effort! How to Store and Freeze Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars Fridge: Store your Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This will keep them fresh and ready to be enjoyed! Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They will stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thawing: When ready to enjoy, simply remove the bars from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving. Reheating: While these bars are best served chilled, you can briefly microwave a single serving for a few seconds if you prefer a slightly softened texture. Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars Variations Feel free to get creative with these Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars and make them your own! Berry Swap: Substitute fresh raspberries with strawberries or blueberries for a delightful twist. Each berry brings its unique flavor and sweetness! Citrus Zing: Add a tablespoon of lemon zest to the cream cheese layer for a refreshing burst of citrus. This zing brightens each bite and adds a lovely aroma. Graham Cracker Crust: For a flavorful crust twist, use crushed graham crackers instead of flour. It adds a sweet crunch that perfectly complements the fruit! Coconut Cream: Swap out heavy cream for coconut cream in the filling for a tropical flair. This also makes the recipe dairy-free, perfect for those with lactose intolerance. Sugar-Free Option: Use sugar-free Raspberry Jell-O and a sugar alternative to create a guilt-free dessert that’s just as delicious! Nutty Crust: Mix in some finely chopped almonds or walnuts into the shortbread crust for added crunch and a nutty flavor profile. Extra Creaminess: For a richer filling, stir in a bit of sour cream into the cream cheese mixture. It enhances the creaminess while balancing the sweetness. Layered Delight: Create a layer of thinly sliced peaches or bananas beneath the raspberry layer for an adventurous fruity combination that will surprise your guests. You may also enjoy other sweet temptations like Decadent Carrot Cake Bars or treat yourself to some irresistible Fudgy Cookies Cream. Each recipe offers a unique experience brimming with homemade love! Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars Recipe FAQs How do I select ripe raspberries for this recipe? Absolutely! When picking raspberries, look for plump, firm berries that are brightly colored and free from dark spots or mold. The best raspberries should be fragrant, giving off a sweet aroma. If they’re overly mushy or have dark spots all over, pass them by. Fresh, ripe raspberries make a world of difference in flavor! What is the best way to store Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars? Store your Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator and they’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days. Ensure they are well-wrapped to maintain their creamy texture and avoid any absorption of smells from other foods in the fridge. Can I freeze Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars? Very! For long-term storage, wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply transfer them to the refrigerator to thaw for a few hours before serving. This will keep the texture lovely and fresh! What should I do if my cream cheese layer isn’t smooth? If your cream cheese layer isn’t blending smoothly, it may be due to the cream cheese being too cold or lumpy. To fix this, let the cream cheese come to room temperature before mixing, and use a hand mixer to beat it until creamy before adding the powdered sugar and whipped cream. Always fold in the whipped cream gently to keep that light, airy texture intact. Are these bars safe for people with dietary restrictions? Absolutely! For a dairy-free option, use margarine in the crust and substitute the cream cheese and heavy cream with vegan alternatives. If gluten-free is on your radar, simply swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Moreover, always double-check for ingredients like Jell-O that may contain allergens based on dietary preferences! What’s the best way to cut and serve these bars? For clean cuts, use a sharp knife and wipe the blade between slices to keep the presentation neat. When serving, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or some fresh raspberries for an additional touch of summer. Enjoy the refreshing taste of these delightful Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars! Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars: A Creamy Treat for Summer Bliss Delight in these Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars, a creamy dessert bursting with fruity flavor, perfect for summer gatherings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsChilling Time 1 hour hrTotal Time 1 hour hr 35 minutes mins Servings: 12 barsCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Shortbread Crust1 cup Unsalted Butter softened1 cup Powdered Sugar1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract1 Egg Yolk2 cups All-Purpose Flour2 tablespoons Milk or CreamFor the Raspberry Layer1 cup Water2 tablespoons Cornstarch1 cup Sugar adjust according to raspberry tartness1 package Raspberry Jell-O2 cups Fresh Raspberries substitute with strawberries or blueberries for a twistFor the Cream Cheese Layer8 ounces Cream Cheese softened1 cup Heavy Cream whipped1 cup Powdered Sugar1 teaspoon Vanilla Equipment mixing bowlmedium saucepan9x13-inch baking panWire rack Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Raspberry Cream Cheese BarsIn a mixing bowl, cream together the butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until light and fluffy. Incorporate the egg yolk, then gradually add flour and milk until a firm dough forms. Press into the bottom of a greased baking pan.Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the crust for 15 minutes or until lightly golden. Let it cool completely on a wire rack.In a saucepan, combine water and cornstarch over medium heat until it boils. Stir in sugar, Raspberry Jell-O, and fresh raspberries. Cook on low heat until thickened (about 5-7 minutes), then let cool slightly.In a bowl, beat cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth. In another bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold into the cream cheese mixture.Spread the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust, then pour the raspberry mixture on top, spreading evenly. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.Cut into squares with a sharp knife, wiping the blade between cuts for clean edges. Garnish with fresh raspberries or powdered sugar if desired. Nutrition Serving: 1barCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 3gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 120mgPotassium: 90mgFiber: 1gSugar: 18gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 0.5mg NotesEnsure butter is at room temperature for a smooth texture. Allow the bars to chill completely for optimal firmness. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
