Blackberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe

The Creamiest Blackberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe You’ll Love

Crafting a decadent blackberry cheesecake bars recipe sparks pure culinary excitement in my kitchen.

Creamy textures and vibrant berry swirls promise an irresistible dessert experience.

Sweet memories of summer gardens dance through each delectable bite.

Soft cream cheese blends perfectly with ripe, juicy blackberries for an indulgent treat.

Unexpected bursts of fruity flavor contrast beautifully against rich, smooth cheesecake layers.

Simple ingredients come together to create something magical on your plate.

Let’s transform these humble components into a dessert that will make everyone ask for seconds.

Why Everyone’s Talking About Blackberry Cheesecake Bars

  • Create Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Blackberry cheesecake bars deliver delightful flavors that everyone from kids to grandparents will absolutely love.
  • Master Simple Baking Technique: Straightforward recipe allows both novice and experienced bakers to confidently prepare a stunning dessert without complicated steps.
  • Versatile Party Treat: Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, summer picnics, or casual weekend celebrations where shareable desserts are welcome.
  • Customize with Seasonal Twist: Easily swap blackberries with raspberries, blueberries, or mixed berries depending on availability and personal preference.

Blackberry Cheesecake Bars Shopping List

Crust Base:
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: A classic cookie base that provides a sweet and crunchy foundation for the cheesecake bars.
  • Butter: Helps bind the graham cracker crumbs and creates a rich, golden crust.
Cheesecake Filling:
  • Cream Cheese: The primary ingredient that gives the bars their smooth, tangy, and creamy texture.
  • Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a balanced flavor profile.
  • Eggs: Provide structure and help the filling set properly during baking.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor with its warm and aromatic notes.
Fruit and Topping Components:
  • Blackberries: Fresh berries that add a burst of natural sweetness and vibrant color to the cheesecake bars.
  • Flour, Salt, Cornstarch: Work together to stabilize the cheesecake filling and prevent excessive cracking.
  • Powdered Sugar, Heavy Cream: Create a smooth, sweet drizzle that adds an elegant finishing touch to the dessert.

Step-By-Step For Blackberry Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Prepare Baking Station

Warm up the oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, letting extra paper hang over the sides for easy bar removal later.

Step 2: Create Crumbly Crust

Melt butter and mix thoroughly with graham cracker crumbs. Press the mixture firmly into the pan’s bottom, creating a solid, compact foundation for the bars.

Step 3: Whip Creamy Cheesecake Base

In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until silky smooth. Ensure no lumpy bits remain in the mixture.

Step 4: Blend Wet Ingredients

Add eggs one at a time, mixing completely after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract to boost the flavor profile.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gently sift flour, salt, and cornstarch. Fold into the cream cheese mixture carefully, avoiding overmixing.

Step 6: Arrange Blackberry Treasures

Scatter fresh blackberries across the batter. Lightly press some berries into the mixture while leaving others sitting on top for a beautiful presentation.

Step 7: Smooth and Spread

Pour the entire mixture over the graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to spread evenly, ensuring consistent coverage.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 35-40 minutes. The center should set but still have a slight jiggle when gently shaken.

Step 9: Cool and Rest

Remove from oven and let cool completely at room temperature for about 1 hour.

Step 10: Create Dreamy Drizzle

Whisk together:
  • Powdered sugar
  • Heavy cream

Drizzle the smooth mixture artfully over the cooled cheesecake bars.

Step 11: Chill and Set

Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to develop rich flavors and achieve the perfect texture.

Step 12: Serve and Enjoy

Lift bars from the pan using parchment paper edges. Slice into squares and serve chilled for maximum deliciousness.

Best Tips For Creamy Blackberry Cheesecake Bars

  • Prevent Crust Crumbling: Press graham cracker mixture firmly and evenly into the pan to create a solid, stable base that holds together when cutting.
  • Avoid Cheesecake Cracks: Mix cream cheese ingredients at room temperature and avoid overmixing to prevent surface cracks during baking.
  • Optimize Blackberry Distribution: Gently fold berries into batter and strategically place some on top for a beautiful, balanced presentation and flavor spread.
  • Control Moisture Level: Pat blackberries dry before adding to prevent excess liquid from making the cheesecake bars soggy or undermixed.
  • Enhance Serving Technique: Chill bars completely before cutting with a clean, warm knife for precise, neat squares that showcase the dessert's layers.

Ways To Remix Blackberry Cheesecake Bars

  • Raspberry Swirl Bars: Replace blackberries with raspberry puree, creating a vibrant red marbled effect by swirling the fruit through the cream cheese batter before baking.
  • Lemon Blueberry Bars: Incorporate fresh lemon zest into the cream cheese mixture and top with whole blueberries, providing a bright, citrusy flavor profile.
  • Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars: Fold mini chocolate chips into the cream cheese batter and sprinkle additional chips on top before baking for extra chocolatey indulgence.
  • Pecan Praline Bars: Sprinkle chopped pecans over the graham cracker crust and drizzle caramel sauce on top of the finished cheesecake bars for a rich, nutty variation.

What To Pair With Blackberry Cheesecake Bars

  • Pair Velvety Dessert Wine: Select a late-harvest Riesling or Moscato d'Asti to complement the rich, creamy blackberry cheesecake bars. These sweet wines match the dessert's fruity notes and provide a delightful contrast to the tangy cream cheese.
  • Elevate with Sparkling Refreshment: Choose a chilled prosecco or champagne to cut through the richness of the cheesecake. The bubbles and crisp acidity will cleanse the palate between each decadent bite, creating a harmonious taste experience.
  • Create Fruit Garnish Contrast: Top the bars with fresh blackberries or a small mint leaf to enhance the visual appeal and add a burst of fresh flavor. The additional fruit will intensify the blackberry essence and provide a bright, light counterpoint to the dense cheesecake.

How To Keep Blackberry Cheesecake Bars From Drying Out

  • Transfer cooled cheesecake bars to an airtight container with a tight-fitting lid, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and creamy texture.
  • Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months, ensuring maximum flavor retention. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Allow bars to sit at room temperature for no more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth. Always return unused portions to the refrigerator promptly to preserve quality and safety.
  • Cut bars into individual servings before storing, making it easier to grab and enjoy a quick dessert without disturbing the entire batch.

Blackberry Cheesecake Bars Questions—Answered

  • Can I use frozen blackberries instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use frozen blackberries. Thaw and drain them completely before adding to the cheesecake batter to prevent excess moisture.

  • How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake bars?

Avoid overmixing the batter, bake at the correct temperature, and let the bars cool gradually at room temperature to minimize cracking.

  • What's the best way to get clean, neat slices?

Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between each cut to create smooth, precise edges.

  • Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These cheesecake bars can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

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Blackberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Blackberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe


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4.9 from 15 reviews

  • Total Time: 3 hours
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Indulgent Blackberry Cheesecake Bars offer a luxurious blend of creamy cheesecake and sweet-tart blackberry swirls, nestled on a buttery graham cracker crust. Dessert enthusiasts will savor each rich, velvety bite of this irresistible treat.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 24 oz cream cheese
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 cups fresh blackberries

Baking/Binding Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch

Topping/Garnish Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp heavy cream

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess to hang over the sides for easy removal.
  2. Melt the butter and combine with graham cracker crumbs, pressing the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to create a compact, even crust.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whip cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
  4. Incorporate eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition, then blend in vanilla extract for enhanced flavor.
  5. Sift together flour, salt, and cornstarch, gently folding into the cream cheese mixture until just combined.
  6. Carefully distribute fresh blackberries across the cream cheese batter, lightly pressing some into the mixture while leaving others on the surface.
  7. Pour the entire mixture over the graham cracker crust, spreading evenly with a spatula to ensure uniform coverage.
  8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly when gently shaken.
  9. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely at room temperature for approximately 1 hour.
  10. Whisk powdered sugar and heavy cream to create a smooth drizzle, then artfully distribute over the cooled cheesecake bars.
  11. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to achieve optimal texture and flavor development.
  12. Lift the bars from the pan using parchment paper edges, slice into squares, and serve chilled.

Notes

  • Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth, creamy texture when mixing.
  • Use fresh, ripe blackberries for the most vibrant flavor and beautiful color contrast in the cheesecake bars.
  • Gently fold dry ingredients to maintain the delicate airiness of the cheesecake mixture, avoiding overmixing which can lead to a dense, tough texture.
  • Customize the recipe by swapping blackberries with other seasonal berries like raspberries or blueberries for a delightful variation.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 330
  • Sugar: 22 g
  • Sodium: 200 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 31 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 60 mg
Truc Tran (Kris)

Truc Tran (Kris)

Senior Food Editor

Expertise

Home Cooking, Meal Planning, Recipe Development, Baking and Pastry, Food Editor, Cooking-video Maker, Vietnamese Food Evaluation Expert

Education

  • Hospitality (Commercial Cookery) at TasTAFE
  • Culinary Arts at Kendall College (Australia Branch in Sydney)
  • Vietnamese Cuisine Head Chef at HNAAu School (Vietnam, International Joint Training Program)

Truc Tran (Kris), an experienced food writer and editor, is great at exploring and describing global cuisines, from simple street food to fancy dining. In her writing, she skillfully mixes different flavors, cooking methods, and culinary traditions, showing the unique character of various cultures through their food and drinks. On azcuisines.com, Kris highlights her knowledge, especially in Asian cuisine and worldwide traditional dishes.

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