These Healthy Raspberry Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat that satisfies your sweet tooth without the guilt. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a picnic, or simply a cozy night in, these bars balance a creamy texture with the tartness of fresh raspberries. The use of Greek yogurt and cream cheese makes them surprisingly healthy, proving that you can indulge in dessert while still being mindful of your health.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: With just a 15-minute prep time, these bars come together swiftly. Perfect for those last-minute dessert cravings!
- Guilt-Free Indulgence: Made with healthier ingredients, this recipe is low in calories yet high in flavor. Enjoy dessert without compromising your diet.
- Versatile Serving Options: These cheesecake bars can be served chilled or at room temperature. They’re great for parties, potlucks, or as a sweet snack.
- Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of tangy raspberries and creamy cheesecake will tantalize your taste buds. Each bite bursts with freshness!
- Customizable Ingredients: Swap out ingredients as needed! You can easily adjust to suit dietary preferences while still keeping the recipe healthy.
Tools and Preparation
To whip up these Healthy Raspberry Cheesecake Bars, you’ll need some essential tools that make the process smooth and efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Food processor
- Mixing bowls
- Electric hand mixer (optional)
- Brownie pan
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Food processor: This tool makes quick work of blending the biscuit base into crumbs effortlessly.
- Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls is crucial for keeping your ingredients organized as you prepare each layer.
- Brownie pan: The right size pan ensures even baking so your cheesecake bars cook perfectly throughout.
Ingredients
These delicious Healthy Raspberry Cheesecake Bars are a sweet and refreshing dessert that’s quick and easy to make. Made with Greek Yogurt and Cream Cheese, and no sugar or heavy cream needed—you’ll never believe these cheesecake bars are healthy!
For the Crust
- 8 digestive biscuits (118g or sub equal weight oats or a different biscuit)
- 20 g soy protein crisps (sub for 1 extra biscuit or equal parts oats)
- 30 g light butter (normal butter or oil)
- 1 tbsp milk
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 250 g light cream cheese
- 350 g yogurt (vanilla or plain)
- 2 eggs
- 100 g granulated zero-calorie sweetener (or any granulated sweetener of choice)
- 60 g vanilla protein powder (sub for cornstarch or flour)
- 2 tsp vanilla
- 1 lemon (juiced)
- 1 lemon (zest)
- 150 g raspberries (fresh or frozen)
How to Make Healthy Raspberry Cheesecake Bars
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F).
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
- Add the digestive biscuits and soy protein crisps to a food processor. Blend for 10-30 seconds until crumbs form.
- Pour in melted butter and mix until you achieve a slightly sticky crumble.
- Line a brownie pan with parchment paper and press the mixture into an even layer using the back of a spoon.
Step 3: Bake the Crust
Bake the crust for 10 minutes then allow it to cool completely.
Step 4: Mix the Cheesecake Filling
- In a medium bowl, combine all cheesecake ingredients except raspberries.
- Whisk by hand or use an electric hand mixer until well combined; avoid over-mixing.
Step 5: Layer with Raspberries
- Place a handful of raspberries on top of the cooled crust.
- Pour half of the cheesecake batter over them.
- Add more raspberries followed by remaining cheesecake batter.
- Sprinkle extra raspberries on top for garnish.
Step 6: Optional Water Bath
For creamier bars, place your brownie pan inside a larger baking dish filled with hot water so that it rises about an inch up the sides of your pan.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 30-40 minutes, depending on your preference (30 for creamy, 40 for firmer texture).
Step 8: Cool and Chill
Once baked, let it cool slightly before refrigerating for at least 5 hours.
Step 9: Slice and Serve
Cut into 12 equal slices and enjoy these delicious Healthy Raspberry Cheesecake Bars!
How to Serve Healthy Raspberry Cheesecake Bars
These Healthy Raspberry Cheesecake Bars are perfect for any occasion. Whether you are hosting a party or enjoying a quiet night in, here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dessert experience.
With Fresh Berries
- Serve alongside fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries for a burst of flavor and color.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Add a dollop of light whipped cream on top for an extra creamy texture.
Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce
- A drizzle of dark chocolate sauce can elevate the sweetness and provide a delightful contrast.
Paired with Greek Yogurt
- Serve with a side of Greek yogurt for added protein and creaminess, making it even more satisfying.
Accompanied by Mint Leaves
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves to add a refreshing touch that complements the raspberry flavor.
How to Perfect Healthy Raspberry Cheesecake Bars
To ensure your Healthy Raspberry Cheesecake Bars come out just right, follow these simple tips.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature. This helps achieve a smoother batter without lumps.
Don’t Overmix: Mix the cheesecake batter just until combined to ensure a light and airy texture. Overmixing can lead to dense bars.
Experiment with Sweeteners: Adjust the sweetness according to your taste preferences by trying different zero-calorie sweeteners or natural options.
Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on baking time; when the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly, they are ready to come out of the oven.
Cool Gradually: Allow your bars to cool slightly before refrigerating. This helps maintain their structure and flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Healthy Raspberry Cheesecake Bars
Complement your Healthy Raspberry Cheesecake Bars with these delicious side dishes for an unforgettable dessert spread.
Fruit Salad
A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the richness of the cheesecake bars.Cheese Platter
Include assorted cheeses such as brie or goat cheese for a savory contrast that pairs nicely with the sweet bars.Nutty Granola
Crunchy granola sprinkled over the cheesecake bars provides added texture and flavor.Chia Seed Pudding
A light chia seed pudding offers a healthy option that aligns well with the cheesecake’s creamy nature.Herbed Crackers
Savory herbed crackers can balance the sweetness while adding a unique flavor profile.Coconut Macaroons
These chewy treats bring an extra layer of sweetness and pair beautifully with raspberries.Coffee or Tea
A warm beverage like coffee or tea can enhance flavors and make for a cozy dessert experience.Ice Cream
A scoop of low-calorie ice cream can turn this dessert into an indulgent treat while keeping it healthy!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Healthy Raspberry Cheesecake Bars, it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can affect the final result. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can incorporate air, leading to cracks in your cheesecake bars. Mix just until combined for a smooth texture.
- Skipping the cooling step: Allowing your bars to cool before refrigerating is crucial. Skipping this step can lead to a soggy base.
- Not using parchment paper: Failing to line your pan with parchment paper can make it difficult to remove the bars. Always line the pan for easy lifting.
- Ignoring ingredient temperature: Using cold ingredients can create lumps in your mixture. Make sure cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before mixing.
- Not adjusting baking time: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your bars as they bake; adjust the time based on your preference for creaminess or firmness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Ensure the bars are completely cooled before sealing.
Freezing Healthy Raspberry Cheesecake Bars
- Freeze for up to 3 months in an airtight container.
- Cut into slices before freezing for easy access later.
Reheating Healthy Raspberry Cheesecake Bars
- Oven: Preheat to 160°C (320°F) and warm for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices in 15-second intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Use a non-stick pan over low heat, covering with a lid for even warming.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Healthy Raspberry Cheesecake Bars.
Can I use other fruits instead of raspberries?
Yes! You can replace raspberries with other berries like blueberries or strawberries for a different flavor twist.
How do I make these bars gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Healthy Raspberry Cheesecake Bars, substitute the digestive biscuits with gluten-free cookies or oats.
What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?
You may use regular yogurt or cottage cheese as an alternative, but Greek yogurt provides a thicker consistency.
How do I know when my cheesecake bars are done baking?
The edges should be set while the center remains slightly jiggly. They will firm up as they cool.
Can I add more sweetener?
Absolutely! Adjust the sweetness according to your taste. Just remember that using more may affect texture slightly.
Final Thoughts
These Healthy Raspberry Cheesecake Bars are not only delicious but also versatile. They make a perfect dessert for any occasion, and you can easily customize them by adding different fruits or toppings. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delightful treat that feels indulgent without the guilt!
Healthy Raspberry Cheesecake Bars
Indulge in the delightful taste of Healthy Raspberry Cheesecake Bars, where creamy cheesecake meets the tangy freshness of raspberries. This guilt-free dessert is perfect for any occasion—from family gatherings to a quiet night at home. Made with Greek yogurt and light cream cheese, these bars provide a satisfying treat without the added calories. With just a 15-minute prep time, you can whip up a batch that promises to please even the most discerning sweet tooth. Enjoy a slice chilled or at room temperature, and savor the rich flavor profile that bursts with every bite!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Makes 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 8 digestive biscuits
- 250 g light cream cheese
- 350 g Greek yogurt (vanilla or plain)
- 2 eggs
- 150 g raspberries
- Sweetener of choice
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F).
- In a food processor, blend digestive biscuits until crumbs form. Mix in melted butter and press into a lined brownie pan.
- Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then let it cool.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, Greek yogurt, eggs, sweetener, protein powder, lemon juice, and zest. Mix until smooth but do not overmix.
- Layer raspberries on the cooled crust, pour half of the cheesecake mixture over them, then add more raspberries and remaining batter on top.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes until set; cool slightly before refrigerating for at least 5 hours.
- Slice into 12 bars and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (66g)
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Leave a Comment