The Ultimate Blackberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe

I’ve perfected these Blackberry Cheesecake Bars through countless iterations in my kitchen, combining the rich tradition of classic New York cheesecake with the sweet-tart burst of fresh blackberries. This recipe transforms the elegant cheesecake into convenient, perfectly portioned bars that maintain all the decadence of the original dessert.

A Brief History

Cheesecake’s origins trace back to ancient Greece, where it was served to athletes during the first Olympic games. The modern New York-style cheesecake, which inspired these bars, emerged in the 1920s. I’ve enhanced this classic with a seasonal blackberry topping, celebrating the perfect marriage of creamy cheesecake and fresh summer berries.

Prep & Timing Information

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
• Cooling Time: 4 hours minimum
• Total Time: 5-6 hours
• Servings: 16 bars

Equipment Needed

• 9×9 inch (23×23 cm) baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Electric mixer (stand or hand-held)
• Medium saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula

Ingredients

For the Graham Cracker Crust

• 2 cups (240g) graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 pinch of salt

For the Cheesecake Layer

• 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 2/3 cup (133g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup (60g) sour cream, room temperature
• 1 pinch of salt

For the Blackberry Topping

• 2 cups (280g) fresh blackberries, divided
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) water
• 1 tablespoon (8g) cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) fresh lemon juice

Detailed Instructions

Preparing Your Workspace

1. Position your oven rack in the middle position and preheat to 325°F (165°C)
2. Line your 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on two sides
3. Gather all ingredients and allow cold items to reach room temperature

Creating the Perfect Crust

1. Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and salt in a medium bowl
2. Mix thoroughly until the mixture resembles wet sand
3. Transfer to prepared pan and press firmly into an even layer
4. Bake for 10 minutes until lightly golden
5. Remove from oven and cool completely on a wire rack

Crafting the Cheesecake Layer

1. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese on medium speed until completely smooth, about 2 minutes
2. Add sugar gradually while beating until the mixture is light and fluffy
3. Add eggs one at a time, beating on low speed just until incorporated
4. Mix in vanilla extract, sour cream, and salt until just combined
5. Pour mixture over cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula

Preparing the Blackberry Topping

1. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup blackberries, sugar, and water
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until berries break down (about 5-7 minutes)
3. In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water
4. Add cornstarch mixture to berries, stirring constantly until thickened (about 2-3 minutes)
5. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice and remaining fresh berries
6. Carefully dollop spoonfuls of topping over cheesecake batter
7. Use a knife to create elegant swirls, being careful not to overmix

Baking and Cooling Process

1. Bake for 35-40 minutes until edges are set but center still has a slight wobble
2. Remove from oven and run a knife around the edges to prevent cracking
3. Cool completely at room temperature (about 1 hour)
4. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight
5. Use parchment overhang to lift bars from pan
6. Cut into 16 squares with a clean, sharp knife

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days
• Freeze wrapped bars for up to 3 months
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving

Nutritional Information (per bar)

• Calories: 285
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 72mg
• Sodium: 200mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 28g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 20g
• Protein: 4g

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

1. Room temperature ingredients are crucial for a smooth, lump-free batter
2. Avoid overmixing after adding eggs to prevent excess air in the batter
3. The center should still have a slight jiggle when done – it will set as it cools
4. Clean your knife between cuts for pristine bars
5. For the smoothest texture, let bars come to room temperature for 15 minutes before serving

These Blackberry Cheesecake Bars strike the perfect balance between rich, creamy cheesecake and fresh, bright berry flavor. The graham cracker crust provides a buttery foundation that complements both elements beautifully.