These Chocolate-Raspberry Cheesecake Bars offer a luscious blend of rich devil’s food cake, creamy cheesecake, and tangy raspberry filling. Each bite is enhanced by a drizzle of melted semisweet chocolate and the pop of fresh raspberries, creating an irresistible treat that looks as amazing as it tastes. The perfect balance between sweet and tart, these bars are a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Not only are these bars visually stunning, but they’re also easy to make! With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this showstopping dessert. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just indulging in a sweet craving, these cheesecake bars will definitely hit the spot.
Full Recipe:
For the Crust:
- 1 box Betty Crocker™ Super Moist™ Devil’s Food Cake Mix
- 1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 egg
- 1 cup raspberry pie filling (from 21-oz can)
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 2 eggs
- 1 tablespoon Gold Medal™ all-purpose flour
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 2 teaspoons shortening
- 48 fresh raspberries
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (325°F for dark or nonstick pans). In a large bowl, mix the cake mix, softened butter, milk, and 1 egg until dry ingredients are moistened. Spread evenly in an ungreased 15x10x1-inch pan. Spread the raspberry pie filling over the crust.
- In another large bowl, beat the cream cheese, sour cream, sugar, and vanilla with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating after each addition. On low speed, beat in the flour. Pour the mixture over the raspberry filling.
- Bake for 30 to 38 minutes or until the cheesecake filling is set. Cool completely for about 1 hour.
- In a microwavable plastic bag, combine chocolate chips and shortening. Microwave on High for 15 seconds, then squeeze the bag to mix. Microwave again for 15 seconds until fully melted. Cut off a tiny corner of the bag and drizzle the chocolate over the bars. Cut the bars into 8 rows by 6 rows. Refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving. Top each bar with a fresh raspberry just before serving. Store covered in the refrigerator.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 38 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 150 kcal per serving | Servings: 48 bars
A Decadent Treat: Chocolate-Raspberry Cheesecake Bars
When it comes to decadent desserts that balance the richness of chocolate with the tartness of raspberries, Chocolate-Raspberry Cheesecake Bars reign supreme. These bars offer a unique combination of flavors and textures that make them irresistible. The fusion of creamy cheesecake, velvety chocolate, and a bright, fruity raspberry filling makes this dessert a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, these cheesecake bars are a delightful project that yields impressive results.
A Dessert for All Occasions
Chocolate-Raspberry Cheesecake Bars are a versatile dessert that can be served at a variety of events and celebrations. Their visually appealing presentation makes them a perfect choice for formal gatherings such as holiday parties, weddings, or anniversaries. The ease of preparation also means that they are a great option for casual get-togethers, potlucks, and even weeknight indulgences.
- Holiday Celebrations: These bars are perfect for festive gatherings like Christmas or Valentine’s Day. The rich chocolate and fresh raspberries add a touch of elegance and luxury to any holiday spread.
- Bridal Showers & Weddings: The sophisticated combination of flavors makes these bars an ideal dessert for special occasions. They can be served as part of a dessert buffet or as a delightful accompaniment to coffee or tea at a wedding reception or bridal shower.
- Casual Events & Potlucks: Even though they have an upscale taste, these bars are simple enough to prepare for less formal events. Whether you’re hosting a family reunion or bringing a dessert to a neighborhood cookout, Chocolate-Raspberry Cheesecake Bars will be a hit.
The Perfect Balance of Flavors
What makes these cheesecake bars so special is the balance of flavors. The deep, rich chocolate flavor of the crust is complemented by the creamy tang of the cheesecake layer. Meanwhile, the raspberry filling provides a sweet and slightly tart contrast that cuts through the richness, adding a refreshing brightness to each bite.
- Chocolate Crust: The base of the bars is made with a devil’s food cake mix, giving it a deep, chocolatey foundation that adds to the overall richness of the dessert.
- Cheesecake Layer: The smooth and creamy cheesecake layer brings an indulgent, velvety texture that melts in your mouth, harmonizing perfectly with the chocolate and raspberry flavors.
- Raspberry Filling: A layer of raspberry pie filling adds a fruity punch that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the chocolate and cheesecake. This element of tartness keeps the dessert from feeling too heavy, providing a balanced finish.
- Chocolate Drizzle & Fresh Raspberries: The finishing touch of a chocolate drizzle and fresh raspberries on top adds a gourmet flair, making these bars as visually stunning as they are delicious.
Texture: A Play of Creamy, Crunchy, and Soft
The texture of Chocolate-Raspberry Cheesecake Bars is as delightful as the taste. Each layer brings its own unique mouthfeel, making every bite a sensory experience.
- Crunchy Crust: The chocolate crust is firm and slightly crunchy, offering a solid base that contrasts beautifully with the softer layers above it.
- Smooth Cheesecake: The cheesecake layer is soft, creamy, and silky smooth, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- Juicy Raspberry Layer: The raspberry filling provides a jam-like consistency that bursts with flavor, offering a juicy, fruity element.
- Velvety Chocolate Drizzle: The chocolate drizzle adds a rich, velvety finish that enhances the indulgent experience of the bars.
Customizing the Recipe
One of the best things about this dessert is its versatility. While the classic combination of chocolate, cheesecake, and raspberries is unbeatable, there are plenty of ways to customize the recipe to suit your personal preferences or dietary needs.
- Fruit Alternatives: While raspberries add a tart and fruity note, you can experiment with other fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or even a mixed berry compote. Each fruit will bring its own unique flavor profile to the dessert.
- Flavor Variations: For a different twist, you could add a layer of caramel sauce between the crust and the cheesecake or sprinkle crushed nuts on top for added crunch.
- Gluten-Free Option: By substituting the devil’s food cake mix for a gluten-free alternative, you can easily adapt this recipe for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Vegan Option: To make these bars vegan, you can substitute the cream cheese and sour cream with plant-based alternatives and use a vegan cake mix for the crust.
Tips for Success
To ensure that your Chocolate-Raspberry Cheesecake Bars turn out perfectly, follow these helpful tips:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure that the cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before you begin. This will help create a smoother cheesecake batter and prevent lumps.
- Even Layers: When spreading the cheesecake layer over the raspberry filling, use a spatula to ensure an even layer. This will help the bars bake evenly and give them a more professional appearance.
- Cutting the Bars: For clean, sharp edges when cutting the bars, use a sharp knife and wipe it with a damp cloth between each cut. This will prevent the cheesecake layer from sticking to the knife and ensure neat, even slices.
- Chilling: Allow the bars to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes after baking. This will help set the cheesecake layer and make the bars easier to slice.
Presentation: A Showstopper Dessert
Presentation is key when serving Chocolate-Raspberry Cheesecake Bars. Their vibrant colors and contrasting layers make them a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
- Chocolate Drizzle: The chocolate drizzle adds an artistic touch to the dessert, creating a beautiful contrast with the creamy cheesecake and the vibrant red raspberries. For a more decorative look, you can drizzle the chocolate in diagonal lines or in a crisscross pattern.
- Fresh Raspberries: Adding a fresh raspberry on top of each bar not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pop of color that makes the bars look even more appealing. You can also dust the top of the bars with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve these bars on a simple white plate to allow the colors and textures to shine. Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or tea for the perfect dessert experience.
Nutritional Information
While these bars are an indulgent treat, they can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. With roughly 150 kcal per serving, they are a satisfying dessert that doesn’t have to ruin your diet. If you’re looking to cut back on calories, you can reduce the amount of chocolate drizzle or use a light cream cheese to lighten up the recipe.
Conclusion: Why You Should Try Chocolate-Raspberry Cheesecake Bars
In conclusion, Chocolate-Raspberry Cheesecake Bars are the perfect dessert for anyone looking to indulge in a rich, flavorful treat. With their balanced layers of chocolate, cheesecake, and raspberry, they offer a harmonious blend of sweetness, tartness, and creaminess. They are easy enough to make for a casual get-together yet impressive enough to serve at a more formal occasion. Plus, their versatility allows you to adapt the recipe to suit your personal taste or dietary needs.
Whether you’re an experienced baker or just getting started, these bars are sure to impress both in flavor and presentation. The next time you’re in the mood for a dessert that combines the best of both worlds – rich chocolate and fruity freshness – give these Chocolate-Raspberry Cheesecake Bars a try. You won’t be disappointed!