Directions
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8-inch square baking dish by lining it with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.
-
In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, and salt. Mix these dry ingredients well. Then, take the chilled and cubed butter and cut it into the dry mixture until it reaches a crumbly texture. This will be the base for our heavenly bars.
-
Once mixed, press the crumbly mixture firmly into the prepared baking dish to form an even layer. Bake this crust in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until it is light golden brown. The aroma of the baking crust is tremendously inviting!
-
While the crust is baking, prepare the raspberry layer. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the fresh raspberries, white sugar, and cornstarch. Stir gently and cook until it thickens, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
-
After thickening, remove the raspberry mixture from the heat and spread it evenly over the baked crust. This vibrant layer not only adds color but also tremendous flavor.
-
Next, prepare the cheesecake filling. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. This process should take about 2-3 minutes. It’s crucial to ensure there are no lumps for a delightful texture.
-
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Finally, mix in the vanilla extract, ensuring everything is combined thoroughly.
-
Carefully pour the cheesecake mixture over the raspberry layer, spreading it evenly. This creates a beautiful and tremendous contrast between the raspberry and creamy cheesecake layers.
-
Bake the assembled cheesecake bars in the oven for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the cheesecake layer is set and does not jiggle. The edges may slightly puff up, which is a sign of deliciousness.
-
After baking, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours. This step allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
-
For the finishing touches, remove the cheesecake bars from the baking dish by lifting them out using the parchment overhang. Cut into squares and sprinkle with toasted almonds for a nutty crunch. Garnish with fresh mint leaves to add a touch of elegance.
Continue reading on the next page 👇👇