Elegant Raspberry Marble Cheesecake Bars

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

2 cups graham cracker crumbs

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

16 oz cream cheese, softened

1 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 large eggs

1/2 cup sour cream

For the Raspberry Swirl:

1/4 cup raspberry jam

1 cup fresh raspberries

For Garnish:

1 tablespoon powdered sugar

Fresh mint leaves

Directions:

Preheat Oven:

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal later.

Prepare the Crust:

In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.

Make the Cheesecake Filling:

In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract and eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the sour cream until smooth.

Assemble the Bars:

Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust in the pan. Drop small spoonfuls of raspberry jam over the filling. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the jam into the cream cheese mixture, creating a marbled effect. Add fresh raspberries on top.

Bake:

Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly browned. Remove from the oven and allow the cheesecake to cool completely in the pan.

Chill and Cut:

Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm. Once chilled, lift the cheesecake out of the pan using the parchment overhang and cut into bars.

Garnish and Serve:

Top each bar with fresh raspberries, a light dusting of powdered sugar, and garnish with mint leaves before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 3 hours (including cooling and chilling time)

Servings: 12 bars

Calories: 320 kcal per bar

Enjoy the vibrant and refreshing flavors of these Raspberry Marble Cheesecake Bars!