Creating Irresistible Raspberry Cheesecake Bars is a straightforward process. Follow these steps for a beautiful outcome:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan.

2. Make the Crust:
– In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well mixed.
– Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the crust.

3. Pre-bake the Crust:
– Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes.
– Remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly.

4. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
– In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
– Gradually add the sugar, mixing until fully combined and creamy.
– Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
– Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon juice, mixing until smooth.

5. Spread the Cheesecake Mixture:
– Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
– Bake for 20 minutes in the preheated oven.

6. Make the Raspberry Layer:
– In a medium bowl, mix fresh raspberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice.
– Gently fold the mixture to coat the raspberries without crushing them.

7. Add the Raspberry Layer:
– After the cheesecake has baked for 20 minutes, remove it from the oven.
– Spoon the raspberry mixture over the cheesecake filling in an even layer.

8. Final Baking:
– Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the filling is set.

9. Cool and Chill:
– Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool at room temperature.
– Cover it and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing to allow the flavors to develop fully.

10. Slice and Serve:
– Use a sharp knife to cut into squares or bars.
– Wipe the knife clean between cuts for neat edges.