Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars

Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars are the kind of dessert that makes your taste buds dance. Just picture it: creamy, tangy cheesecake with bursts of sweet blueberry flavor, all enveloped in a buttery graham cracker crust. It’s like summer on a plate! Whether you’re hosting a picnic or just looking for a sweet pick-me-up at home, these bars are sure to impress. The bright, zesty notes of lemon and the juicy blueberries create a flavor explosion that feels refreshing and indulgent at the same time. Plus, they’re easy to whip up, which means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the delicious results with friends and family. So grab your baking gear, and let’s get started on these delightful Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars!

What is Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars

Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars are a delightful dessert that combines the tartness of fresh lemons with the sweetness of blueberries. These creamy bars are layered over a buttery graham cracker crust, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Ideal for any occasion, they are a refreshing treat that captures the essence of summer in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars

The joy of Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars goes beyond their tasty flavors. They are visually stunning, featuring vibrant colors that make them a centerpiece at any gathering. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they also cater to a variety of tastes, making them perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or a cozy night in. Their versatility means you can enjoy the zesty flavor of lemons and the sweetness of blueberries no matter the time of year. Each bite provides a satisfying balance of creamy and fruity goodness, sure to bring smiles all around.

Ingredients for Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars

For the Crust:

• 12 full-sheet graham crackers (yielding 1 and 1/2 cups or 180g of graham cracker crumbs)
• 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar

For the Filling:

• 16 ounces (452g) full-fat brick cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 1 large egg
• 6 tablespoons (75g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 3 tablespoons (45ml) lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 and 1/2 cups (210g) fresh or frozen blueberries (do not thaw)

Preparing Your Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars

Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

To start, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). While that heats up, line a 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang. This will make it a breeze to remove the bars once they’re ready.

Create the Graham Cracker Crust

Next, let’s work on the crust. You’ll need to crush the graham crackers into fine crumbs. You can use a food processor for this, or simply place the crackers in a zip-top bag and roll over them with a pin. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with the granulated sugar. Then, pour in the melted butter and mix until it resembles coarse sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.

Prebake the Crust

Now it’s time to give that crust a quick bake! Place it in the preheated oven for about 8 minutes. Once it’s slightly golden, let it cool for a few minutes while you prepare the filling.

Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese using a hand mixer or a stand mixer until it’s smooth, which should take about a minute. Gradually add the egg and the granulated sugar, mixing on medium speed until well combined. Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract, continuing to mix for another 3 minutes until everything is creamy. Carefully fold in the blueberries, ensuring they’re evenly distributed without breaking them.

Assemble and Bake

Now, pour that delicious cheesecake filling right over the warm crust, spreading it evenly. Place it back in the oven, baking for 30–35 minutes. You’ll want the edges to be slightly browned and the center to be set, even if it has a slight jiggle. The bars will puff up while baking but settle down as they cool.

Cool and Chill

After baking, take the bars out of the oven and let them cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then, pop them in the fridge for at least 3 hours. You want them nice and firm before serving.

Cut into Squares

Once chilled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut them into squares, and they’re ready to share!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving, these Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars shine even brighter with a few simple touches. Consider chilling them well, and then garnishing with a sprinkle of lemon zest or a dollop of whipped cream. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea, making for a refreshing dessert after dinner or an afternoon treat.

Tips for Success

• Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature. This will help achieve that creamy, smooth texture you want.
• Fresh blueberries work best for this recipe; however, frozen blueberries can be used straight from the freezer.
• Keep an eye on the baking time! Overbaking can lead to a dry texture that nobody loves.

Variations

Feeling adventurous? You might want to try adding a layer of lemon curd on top of the cheesecake filling for an even more vibrant citrus flavor. Or for a fun twist, swap out blueberries for raspberries or add a swirl of your favorite fruit puree on top.

Storage Tips

These cheesecake bars are perfect for storing. Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This ensures they stay fresh and full of flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but it may affect the bars’ creaminess.

2. Can I freeze Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars?
Absolutely! You can freeze these bars in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Be sure to thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.

3. What can I substitute for graham crackers?
For the crust, consider cookie crumbs like Digestive biscuits, or even a gluten-free alternative if needed.

4. How do I know when the cheesecake is done?
Look for lightly browned edges with a center that is set but still slightly jiggly—just the perfect doneness!

5. What’s the best way to cut cheesecake bars?
Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat and tidy squares.

These Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars are a delightful twist on traditional cheesecake, combining refreshing flavors in a way that makes them memorable. They are perfect for any occasion and are sure to please everyone. So why not try making them today? Enjoy the sweet satisfaction this dessert brings in every bite!

More Easy Desserts & Sweets Recipes:

• Pecan Praline Buttermilk Pound Cake
• Gluten-Free Lemon Olive-Oil Cake
• Raspberry Lemon Loaf Cake
• Lemon Bars

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Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars

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Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars bring together tangy lemon and sweet blueberries atop a buttery graham cracker crust. They’re refreshing, easy to make, and ideal for any gathering.

• Total Time: 24 minute
• Yield: 16 bars 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 full-sheet graham crackers (yielding 1 and 1/2 cups or 180g of graham cracker crumbs)
• 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 16 ounces (452g) full-fat brick cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 1 large egg
• 6 tablespoons (75g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 3 tablespoons (45ml) lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 and 1/2 cups (210g) fresh or frozen blueberries (do not thaw)

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C) and prepare a 9-inch square pan with parchment paper.
• Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs, mix with sugar and melted butter, then press into the prepared pan.
• Prebake the crust for 8 minutes and let it cool.
• Beat cream cheese until smooth, add egg and sugar, then mix in lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla.
• Gently fold in blueberries and pour filling over the crust.
• Bake for 30-35 minutes until edges are browned and center is slightly jiggly.
• Cool at room temperature for 30 minutes then refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving.
• Lift bars out using parchment and cut into squares.

Notes

Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth texture.
Fresh blueberries are ideal, but frozen can be used directly without thawing.
Monitor baking time to avoid dryness.

• Author: Rachael
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 38-43 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 14
• Sodium: 200
• Fat: 14
• Saturated Fat: 8
• Unsaturated Fat: 0.5
• Trans Fat: 0
• Carbohydrates: 28
• Fiber: 1
• Protein: 4
• Cholesterol: 40