Name: Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: PT-489619H16M33S
Ingredients: For the Crust:; 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; For the Blueberry Layer:; 2 cups fresh blueberries; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; For the Lemon Cream Cheese Layer:; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup sour cream; 2 large eggs; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; For the Topping:; 1 cup whipped cream; Lemon slices; Fresh blueberries; White chocolate shavings

Are you ready to treat your taste buds with something truly special? Dive into a delicious adventure with these Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars! Combining the zesty taste of lemon with sweet, juicy blueberries, this dessert is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the palate. These cheesecake bars are perfect for any occasion, from summer barbecues to cozy family gatherings. They offer a bright, refreshing flavor that is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings!

The star of this recipe is the delightful contrast between the creamy lemon cheesecake and the fruity blueberry topping. Each bite hits all the right notes—tangy, sweet, creamy, and refreshing. Best of all, they are easy to make, requiring simple ingredients and minimal effort. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting, these Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars will boost your confidence in the kitchen. Plus, they come with the added bonus of being make-ahead, allowing you to enjoy stress-free entertaining! Join me in creating this easy dessert that is bound to become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Flavor Fusion: The harmonious blend of tangy lemon and sweet blueberries creates an explosion of flavor in every bite.
Simple & Quick: With straightforward instructions, you’ll whip up this dessert in no time!
Make Ahead: These bars can be prepared a day in advance, saving you time for other preparations.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer party or a family dinner, these bars are always a crowd-pleaser.
Impressive Presentation: Garnished with whipped cream, lemon slices, and blueberries, they look as good as they taste!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the delicious world of Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen space and tools for success. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper. This will not only make transferring your bars easier but also prevent sticking.

Make sure you have all your ingredients ready. This includes graham cracker crumbs, sugar, butter, blueberries, cream cheese, sour cream, eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Gather mixing bowls, a saucepan, a spatula, and a hand mixer or a stand mixer to make the process faster. By ensuring everything is in place, you’ll streamline the preparation and enjoy a hassle-free baking experience.

Ingredients

For the Crust:
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Blueberry Layer:
2 cups fresh blueberries
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch

For the Lemon Cream Cheese Layer:
16 oz cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup sour cream
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping:
1 cup whipped cream
Lemon slices
Fresh blueberries
White chocolate shavings

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While waiting for the oven, prepare a 9×9 inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper—this will make removing your cheesecake bars easier after baking.

Step 2: Create the Crust

In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Take this mixture and firmly press it into the bottom of your prepared baking pan to create an even layer. Bake this crust in your preheated oven for about 10 minutes until slightly golden. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool while you work on the remaining layers.

Step 3: Prepare the Blueberry Filling

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the fresh blueberries, sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Stir the mixture constantly as it cooks; you want to see the blueberries start breaking down and the mixture thickening. This should take around 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove it from heat and allow it to cool.

Step 4: Make the Lemon Cream Cheese Mixture

In a large bowl, take softened cream cheese and beat it with sugar until it becomes smooth and creamy. Add in the sour cream, eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Continue mixing until all the ingredients are well incorporated and you achieve a velvety consistency.

Step 5: Assemble the Cheesecake Bars

Pour half of the cream cheese mixture over the cooled graham cracker crust, smoothing it out with a spatula. Next, spoon the blueberry mixture evenly over this layer, spreading it out gently. Finally, pour the remaining cream cheese mixture over the blueberry layer and smooth the top again.

Step 6: Bake the Cheesecake Bars

Place the assembled dish in the oven and bake for approximately 35 to 40 minutes. The edges should look set, while the center will still be slightly jiggly. After baking, let it cool at room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible, to allow it to set completely.

Step 7: Add the Finishing Touches

Just before serving, spread a luxurious layer of whipped cream over the top of your chilled cheesecake bars. To elevate the presentation, garnish with fresh lemon slices, blueberries, and white chocolate shavings. Enjoy your Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars!

Variations

Protein: You can enhance this recipe by adding a layer of protein such as Greek yogurt mixed into the cream cheese layer for added creaminess.
Vegetables: Consider incorporating finely grated zucchini for additional moisture and nutrition without altering the flavor significantly.
Spices: Boost the flavor profile by adding a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the graham cracker crust for a warm layer of aroma.

Cooking Notes

Make sure the cream cheese is softened at room temperature for easier mixing and a smooth texture.
If you don’t have fresh blueberries, you can use frozen blueberries, but reduce the cooking time for the blueberry mixture.
For a cleaner cut into your cheesecake bars, run your knife under hot water before slicing and wipe it dry.
Storing leftovers? Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days for optimal freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these cheesecake bars with a refreshing cup of herbal tea or lemonade for a delightful afternoon treat.
Serve them alongside fresh fruits and a drizzle of honey for an extra touch of sweetness.

Tips

To make the crust gluten-free, use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs.
For an even more citrus punch, you can add a touch more lemon zest into the cream cheese filling.
Experiment with different fruits like raspberries or strawberries to find your favorite combination.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours and 60 minutes (includes cooling and setting)

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 350 per bar
Protein: Around 6g
Sodium: 120mg

FAQs

Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Just be mindful of the cooking time as frozen blueberries might release more moisture.

How long do these cheesecake bars last in the fridge?

They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days when properly covered.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and replace sour cream with a non-dairy option.

What’s the best way to cut these bars for serving?

Using a sharp knife dipped in warm water will help you get clean cuts without sticking.

Conclusion

These Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars are a delightful balance of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. With their creamy texture, refreshing taste, and stunning presentation, they not only make an excellent dessert but also create wonderful memories around the table. Don’t hesitate to share your experiences or any variations you might try in the comments below. So gather your ingredients and get ready to bake these mouth-watering bars that celebrate the best of summer flavors!