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The vibrant red of fresh raspberries against a luscious cream cheese backdrop is enough to make anyone stop in their tracks. I found myself daydreaming about a treat that perfectly balances creamy and fruity when my friend invited me over for tea. Inspired, I created these Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars that deliver on flavor and presentation without any fuss.

These bars are a delightful combination of a crumbly shortbread crust topped with a rich, fluffy cream cheese mixture, and finished with a stunning layer of raspberry glaze. As I whipped up this dessert, the sweet scent of vanilla mingling with the tangy raspberries made my kitchen feel like a cozy café. Best of all, this recipe is surprisingly simple—ideal for weeknight baking or impressing guests at a weekend gathering.

Whether you’re looking to elevate your dessert game or simply want a satisfying way to enjoy fresh seasonal berries, these Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars will make you feel like a culinary superstar! Ready to get started? Let’s dive in!

Why are Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars so tempting?

Indulgence awaits with every slice of these bars, showcasing a perfect blend of creamy and fruity flavors.
Easy to make, this recipe simplifies dessert prep, making it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers alike.
Visually stunning, the vibrant raspberries create an eye-catching layer that’s sure to impress at any gathering.
Crowd-pleaser, these bars are a hit among family and friends, elevating any occasion from ordinary to extraordinary.
Versatile too! You can easily customize the recipe with different berries or add toppings, making it a year-round favorite.
Join the fun and explore more delicious ideas by checking out my seasonal dessert collection!

Raspberry Cream Cheese Bar Ingredients

• Get ready to create magic with these delightful bars!

For the Shortbread Crust

½ cup unsalted butter – gives the bars a rich, buttery flavor.
⅓ cup powdered sugar – adds sweetness and helps achieve a tender crust.
½ teaspoon vanilla – enhances the overall flavor profile.
1 egg yolk – brings richness and helps bind the crust.
1 cup flour – forms the base of your crumbly crust.
1 tablespoon milk or cream – keeps the dough moist and easy to work with.

For the Raspberry Glaze

½ cup water – combines with sugar and cornstarch to create a smooth glaze.
1 tablespoon cornstarch – thickens your glaze for a perfect finish.
⅓ cup sugar – sweetens the glaze just right.
1 small package Raspberry Jell-O (1.4 ounce) – adds an impressive raspberry flavor and color.

For the Cream Cheese Layer

2 cups fresh raspberries – bursting with freshness and flavor, perfectly complementing the creamy layer.
8 oz. cream cheese – provides the luscious, creamy filling.
½ cup powdered sugar – sweetens the cream cheese mixture beautifully.
½ teaspoon vanilla – rounds out the flavor in the cream cheese layer.
1 cup heavy cream – whipped to add lightness and airiness to the filling.

These ingredients come together for a vibrant treat that not only looks stunning but is also incredibly delicious. Enjoy every step as you bake these Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars!

How to Make Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars

Combine water, sugar, and cornstarch in a small pan over medium-high heat. Whisk continuously until the mixture comes to a simmer, thickening beautifully.
Add the Raspberry Jell-O once simmering, and whisk until fully dissolved. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly for the perfect glaze consistency.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring it’s ready to bake your delicious creation.
Mix together butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, milk or cream, and egg yolk in a small bowl. Stir in the flour until just combined; your dough will be crumbly, which is just right!
Press the shortbread dough into the bottom of a lined and greased 8×8 square pan or an 8-9 inch round pan, creating an even base for your bars.
Bake the crust for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges begin to brown slightly, filling your kitchen with a warm, buttery aroma.
Cool the crust for 15 minutes after removing from the oven, allowing it to firm up for layering.
Beat the cold heavy whipping cream in a clean bowl until stiff peaks form; this will add a light, airy texture to your cream cheese layer.
Blend cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla in a medium-sized bowl until smooth, creating a luscious filling for your bars.
Fold the whipped cream gently into the cream cheese mixture, ensuring you retain the lightness and fluffiness.
Spread this creamy mixture over the cooled shortbread crust, smoothing it out for an even layer that looks delightful.
Layer fresh raspberries over the cream cheese layer, then pour the cooled Jell-O glaze on top. If needed, microwave the glaze for 20 seconds to loosen it.
Chill the assembled dessert in the refrigerator for 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Slice and serve these gorgeous Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars to all your friends and family—watch them disappear in minutes!

Optional: Garnish with mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity with these delightful twists that’ll make your dessert uniquely yours!

Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour for a delicious alternative that everyone can enjoy.
Berry Bliss: Swap raspberries for strawberries, blueberries, or mixed berries to explore a whole new flavor profile. Each berry brings its own charm and sweetness!
Nutty Crunch: Add crushed nuts like pecans or almonds to the shortbread crust for a delightful crunch and additional flavor depth. It adds texture you’ll love!
Chocolate Drizzle: Elevate the dessert by drizzling melted dark or white chocolate over the top for a sweet finish that pairs wonderfully with raspberries. Who doesn’t love a chocolatey touch?
Lemon Zest: Incorporate lemon zest into the cream cheese filling for a bright and zesty note that complements the raspberries perfectly. It’s like summer on a plate!
Dairy-Free: Use plant-based cream cheese and coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version that keeps all the creaminess you crave.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the raspberry glaze for an unexpected and exciting layer of heat. It’s a delightful surprise in every piece!
Crumbly Topping: Top the cream cheese layer with a crumble of the shortbread mixture before adding the raspberries for extra texture and visually appealing layers.

Embrace the joy of baking and find a variation that makes your heart sing!

Expert Tips for Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars

Chill Your Cream: Ensure your heavy cream is cold before whipping; this helps achieve stiff peaks and fluffy texture in your filling.
Don’t Overmix: When folding the whipped cream into your cream cheese mixture, be gentle to maintain the airiness—overmixing can lead to a dense layer.
Measure Precisely: Accurate ingredient measurements, especially for the cornstarch and sugar in the glaze, are key to preventing a runny or overly thick consistency.
Layering Technique: Allow the shortbread crust to cool fully before adding the cream cheese layer. This prevents melting and creates clean, beautiful layers in your Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars.
Use Fresh Raspberries: Fresh berries provide the best flavor and texture; frozen ones may release too much moisture, affecting the overall consistency of your dessert.

These simple tips will help ensure your Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars turn out perfectly every time, delighting all who take a bite!

How to Store and Freeze Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars

Fridge: Keep the bars in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness. This will preserve their creamy texture and vibrant raspberry flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bars in a well-wrapped container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving for best results.

Reheating: These bars are best enjoyed chilled, so no need to reheat. Just slice and serve directly from the fridge for a refreshing treat!

Wrapping: If storing individual slices, wrap each one in plastic wrap before placing them in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn and maintain taste.

Make Ahead Options

These Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time! You can prepare the shortbread crust up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature. Additionally, the cream cheese layer can be made up to 3 days ahead—just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble the bars. When it’s time to enjoy, spread the cream cheese mixture over the crust, layer fresh raspberries, and pour the Jell-O glaze on top. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving, ensuring you have deliciously fresh bars that still taste just as amazing!

What to Serve with Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars?

Imagine the joyous laughter of friends and family as they indulge in a festively sweet moment together—creating the perfect atmosphere around each delightful slice.

Fresh Mint Tea: This light, herbal tea offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy tartness of the bars, making each bite feel invigorating.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream enhances the flavor, adding a luscious creaminess that perfectly complements the fruitiness of the dessert.
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: Elevate your dessert spread by adding rich chocolate-dipped strawberries; their sweetness and slight bitterness enhance the raspberry flavor in every bar.
Lemon Sorbet: Light and zesty, this sorbet offers a cool burst of citrus that cleanses the palate between bites of rich cream cheese layers.
Prosecco: This bubbly delight brings a festive touch to your gathering! The light effervescence balances the richness of the bars while adding a touch of elegance.
Pistachio Macarons: These delightful, nutty treats offer a textural contrast and vibrant color, making your dessert table look stunningly appetizing.

Indulging in these pairings enhances the experience of your Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars, making each bite even more memorable. Enjoy the combination!

Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars Recipe FAQs

What type of raspberries should I use?
Absolutely, using fresh raspberries is best for this recipe. They provide the most vibrant flavor and perfect texture. Look for berries that are firm, plump, and free from dark spots or mold. If you find frozen raspberries on sale, you can use them, but be aware that they may release more moisture, so consider lowering the amount of glaze for the best results.

How do I store leftover Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars?
To keep your bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They taste fabulous chilled! Make sure they are fully cooled and covered to maintain their creamy texture and flavor.

Can I freeze Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars?
Yes, you can freeze these delicious bars! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn. They will stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving—this helps retain their creamy goodness.

What can I do if my shortbread crust is too crumbly?
No worries! If your crust mixture seems too crumbly and doesn’t hold together, it might be due to the flour measurement or not enough moisture. You can add a teaspoon or two of milk or cream until the dough comes together more easily. Remember, a bit of extra moisture can help create a perfectly cohesive crust!

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of cream cheese?
While cream cheese provides that classic creamy layer, you can experiment with mascarpone or ricotta for a lighter flavor. Just keep in mind that these cheeses might alter the texture slightly, so adjust the sugar to taste, ensuring it still balances with the tartness of the raspberries.

Is this recipe suitable for pets or individuals with allergies?
I recommend exercising caution with this dessert, as it contains ingredients like dairy and egg that can be harmful to pets. For those with allergies, be mindful of substitutions that may include gluten or dairy. Always consult with your doctor or nutritionist for specific dietary concerns before serving.