Raspberry Cheesecake Bars

Savor a delightful dessert with Raspberry Cheesecake Bars, where a buttery base meets a creamy, tangy filling. This recipe combines the sweet aroma of vanilla with the richness of fresh berries or jam, creating a perfect treat for any occasion. These bars are not only delicious but also present a beautiful balance of textures, from the crisp bottom layer to the smooth, cheesy middle. Ideal for picnics, gatherings, or as an indulgent snack, the Raspberry Cheesecake Bars offer a mouthful of joy with each bite. Visually appealing and rich in flavor, they're surprisingly easy to prepare. The combination of creamy cheese with the fresh taste of raspberries or a thick layer of jam elevates the dessert to a new level. Whether you're an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe is both a rewarding challenge and a celebration of classic flavors. Let the raspberry cheesecake bars symbolize the perfect end to your gourmet adventure.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

200 g margarine
1 cup sugar
1 tsp vanilla sugar
1-2 cups flour
Fresh berries or jam
2 eggs
200-500 g cottage cheese
0.5 cup sugar
1 tsp vanilla

Preparation Time

Total Time: 60 minutes

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 200 degrees Celsius.
Prepare the Base: In a mixing bowl, combine margarine (make sure it's not melted), 1 cup of sugar, and 1-2 cups of flour. Use your fingers to crumble and incorporate the mixture until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
Form the Crust: Press this mixture into the base of a baking pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom. This will serve as the crust for the cheesecake bars.
Bake the Base: Place the crust in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until it turns a golden brown.
Prepare the Filling: While the base is baking, crack 2 eggs into a separate bowl. Add the cottage cheese alongside 0.5 cups of sugar and the vanilla sugar.
Mix the Filling: Whisk the mixture until smooth and creamy, ensuring that all ingredients are well incorporated.
Add Vanilla Flavor: Stir in the vanilla essence for added depth of flavor.
Cool the Base: Once the base is baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly.
Layer with Berries or Jam: Spread a generous layer of your chosen fresh berries or a thick layer of jam over the cooled crust.
Add the Cheese Mixture: Pour the prepared cottage cheese mixture over the berry or jam layer, spreading it evenly.
Final Bake: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes or until the surface turns a beautiful shade of brown.
Check for Doneness: The edges should be browned and the center set.
Decorate (Optional): Enhance your bars with toppings such as grated chocolate, crushed nuts, or even small pieces of marmalade.
Cool and Serve: Let it cool before slicing into bars.
Storage Suggestions: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days.
Slice and Enjoy: Cut into squares and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Presentation Tip: Use a sharp knife for cleaner edges and a more presentable look.
Clean as You Go: For ease, wash tools and bowls immediately after use.
Enhance the Flavor: For added zest, consider a pinch of lemon zest in the filling.
Savor Each Bite: These bars are best enjoyed fresh; take a moment to appreciate the texture and flavors.

Tips

Substitution: Use cream cheese instead of cottage cheese for a smoother filling.
Texture: For a crispier crust, replace margarine with butter.
Flavored Jam: Experiment with different jam flavors like apricot or black currant.
Storage: Always store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Nutrition

Calories: 250 per bar (approximate)
Protein: 5g
Fats: 12g
Carbohydrates: 30g

Variations

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour for those with dietary restrictions.
Low Sugar: Substitute sugar with a low-calorie sweetener.
Vegan: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal and cottage cheese with a vegan cheese option.

Serving Suggestions

Beverage Pairing: Pair with a hot cup of coffee or a chilled glass of milk.
Plating: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Additional Accompaniments: A side of fresh seasonal fruits enhances flavor.

Best Places

Cheesecake Factory - Known for a vast range of cheesecakes. Location: 455 Abercorn Street, Savannah, USA.
Ladurée - Famous for delicate French pastries. Location: 16 rue Bonaparte, Paris, France.
Pasticceria Marchesi - Historic bakery offering exquisite sweets. Location: Via Monte Napoleone 9, Milan, Italy.
Beigel Bake - Offers freshly baked items at incredible prices. Location: 159 Brick Lane, London, UK.
Café Central - Classic Viennese café with a grand atmosphere. Location: Herrengasse 14, Vienna, Austria.
Tartine Bakery - Trendy spot for delectable pastries. Location: 600 Guerrero Street, San Francisco, USA.
De Laatste Kruimel - Cozy and known for its homemade treats. Location: Langebrugsteeg 4, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Kaffeehaus Tres Cabezas - Stylish café, celebrated for its artisanal goodies. Location: Boxhagener Str. 74, Berlin, Germany.
Rosquillas & Café - Delightful spot with a cozy feel. Location: Calle de Chinchilla, Madrid, Spain.
La Pâtisserie des Rêves - Offers a modern twist on classic pastries. Location: 111 rue de Longchamp, Paris, France.