Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars Tasty and Simple Treat

by
To make Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars, you need a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll gather: - 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs - ½ cup unsalted butter, melted - ¼ cup granulated sugar - 16 oz cream cheese, softened - ½ cup granulated sugar (for filling) - 2 large eggs - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice - Zest of 1 lemon - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1 cup fresh blueberries - 2 tablespoons cornstarch These ingredients come together to create a creamy, tangy, and sweet dessert. The graham cracker crumbs make a tasty crust, while the cream cheese filling is rich and smooth. Fresh blueberries add a burst of flavor. You can taste the lemon in each bite. I always recommend using fresh ingredients when possible. Fresh blueberries will give you the best taste. The same goes for the lemon juice and zest. They add brightness to the dish. If you use fresh ingredients, your bars will be even better! Feel free to gather these ingredients before starting. This helps keep your cooking fun and organized. Now you're ready to move on to the next step in making these delicious bars! {{ingredient_image_1}} First, set your oven to 325°F (160°C). This is the perfect heat for baking. Grease a 9x9 inch baking pan with some butter. Line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. In a medium bowl, mix 1 ½ cups of graham cracker crumbs, ½ cup of melted unsalted butter, and ¼ cup of sugar. Stir until it is well blended. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your pan to form a crust. Bake for 10 minutes. Once done, take it out and let it cool. In a large bowl, beat 16 oz of softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually add in ½ cup of sugar, mixing until it is fully combined. In another small bowl, toss 1 cup of fresh blueberries with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. This will help keep them from sinking. Gently fold these blueberries into the cream cheese mixture. Pour the filling over the cooled crust. Spread it evenly across the top. Bake in the oven for 30-35 minutes. Look for the edges to be set while the center is still slightly jiggly. After baking, let the bars cool in the pan for about 30 minutes. Then, place them in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to chill and set completely. Once the bars are chilled, use the parchment paper to lift them out of the pan. Cut into squares to serve. You can garnish with extra blueberries and a dusting of powdered sugar for a nice touch. Enjoy your lemon blueberry cheesecake bars! - Avoid overmixing the filling: Mix just until smooth. Overmixing adds air, which can cause cracks. - Preventing blueberries from sinking: Toss the blueberries with cornstarch before folding them in. This keeps them suspended in the filling. - Garnishing ideas: Top the bars with fresh blueberries and a dusting of powdered sugar. Add lemon slices on the side for color. - Pairing with drinks or sides: Enjoy these bars with a glass of iced tea or lemonade. They also pair well with a light salad for a balanced meal. - Plating techniques: Serve the bars on a white platter. This makes the colors pop and draws attention. - Enhancing visual appeal: Use fresh mint leaves for garnish. They add a nice touch and a burst of color. Pro Tips Chill the Cream Cheese: For a smoother filling, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This will help prevent lumps and create a creamy texture. Use Fresh Blueberries: Opt for fresh blueberries instead of frozen to avoid excess moisture in the filling, which can lead to a soggy texture. Check for Doneness: The bars are done when the edges are set, and the center has a slight jiggle. Overbaking can lead to cracks, so keep an eye on them! Let Them Cool Gradually: Allow the cheesecake bars to cool at room temperature before refrigerating. This helps prevent condensation, which can affect the texture. {{image_2}} You can change the fruits in this recipe to match your taste. Try using raspberries or strawberries instead of blueberries. Each fruit gives a different flavor and color. You can also mix fruits for a fun twist. If you want something different, swap lemons for other citrus fruits. Limes or oranges can add a fresh zing. Just make sure to adjust the juice and zest amounts to keep the flavor balanced. If you need gluten-free options, use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs for the crust. Many brands make these. You will get the same great taste without the gluten. For dairy-free alternatives, use a vegan cream cheese. Look for brands that taste good and are easy to find. You can still enjoy the rich flavor of cheesecake without dairy. Mini cheesecake bars are a fun way to serve these treats. Just use a muffin pan instead of a baking dish. This way, each bar is a single serving. They are perfect for parties or snacks. If you want to skip baking altogether, try no-bake variations. Just mix the filling and pour it over the crust. Let it chill in the fridge until set. You’ll have a creamy treat without turning on the oven! To keep your lemon blueberry cheesecake bars fresh, use the right containers. I recommend using an airtight container. This helps to keep moisture in and odors out. Before placing the bars in the container, ensure they are completely cool. Layer parchment paper between the bars if you stack them. This prevents sticking. For refrigeration, place the cheesecake bars in the fridge right after they have cooled. They need to stay chilled to keep their taste and texture. These bars are best enjoyed cold, so a fridge is the perfect place to store them. If you want to save some bars for later, freezing is a great option. Start by cutting the cheesecake into squares. Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag. Be sure to remove as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. When you are ready to eat them, take the bars out of the freezer. Place them in the fridge for a few hours to thaw. You can also leave them at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will help them regain their creamy texture. These cheesecake bars can stay fresh for about 5 days in the fridge. To check for spoilage, look for any signs of mold or off smells. If the bars feel dry or crumbly, they may no longer be good. When stored properly, you can enjoy these tasty treats for days! Yes, you can make these bars ahead of time. I suggest you prepare them a day before you plan to serve. After baking, let them cool for 30 minutes. Then, refrigerate for at least 2 hours. They will hold well in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you want to store them longer, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. If you need a substitute for cream cheese, there are options. For a dairy-free version, try using vegan cream cheese. Silken tofu blended until smooth can also work well. Another option is using cashew cream made from soaked cashews and a bit of lemon juice. These alternatives keep the texture creamy and the flavor bright. To check if your cheesecake is done, look for a few signs. The edges should be set, while the center might still jiggle slightly. You can also insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out mostly clean. Let it cool completely before cutting, as it will continue to set as it cools. You learned how to make delicious cheesecake bars with fresh blueberries. The process starts with preparing the crust and filling. Then, you fold in blueberries and bake everything together. Remember to follow the tips for a perfect texture and great presentation. You can also explore fun variations to suit your taste. Enjoy your homemade bars, and share them with family and friends for a sweet treat!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Looking for a sweet treat that’s both tasty and simple? You’re in the right place! These Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars blend refreshing lemon and juicy blueberries into a creamy dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. In this step-by-step guide, I’ll walk you through making these delightful bars, from a buttery graham cracker crust to a rich filling. Let’s get started on this scrumptious journey together!

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Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Refreshing Flavor: The bright lemon and sweet blueberries create a perfect balance that’s refreshing and satisfying.
  2. Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require advanced baking skills, making it accessible for everyone.
  3. Perfect for Sharing: These cheesecake bars are ideal for gatherings, offering a delicious and visually appealing dessert that everyone will enjoy.
  4. Make Ahead Option: They can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge, making them a convenient option for busy days.

Ingredients

To make Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars, you need a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll gather:

– 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

– ¼ cup granulated sugar

– 16 oz cream cheese, softened

– ½ cup granulated sugar (for filling)

– 2 large eggs

– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

– Zest of 1 lemon

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

– 1 cup fresh blueberries

– 2 tablespoons cornstarch

These ingredients come together to create a creamy, tangy, and sweet dessert. The graham cracker crumbs make a tasty crust, while the cream cheese filling is rich and smooth. Fresh blueberries add a burst of flavor. You can taste the lemon in each bite.

I always recommend using fresh ingredients when possible. Fresh blueberries will give you the best taste. The same goes for the lemon juice and zest. They add brightness to the dish. If you use fresh ingredients, your bars will be even better!

Feel free to gather these ingredients before starting. This helps keep your cooking fun and organized. Now you’re ready to move on to the next step in making these delicious bars!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

First, set your oven to 325°F (160°C). This is the perfect heat for baking. Grease a 9×9 inch baking pan with some butter. Line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Make the Crust

In a medium bowl, mix 1 ½ cups of graham cracker crumbs, ½ cup of melted unsalted butter, and ¼ cup of sugar. Stir until it is well blended. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your pan to form a crust. Bake for 10 minutes. Once done, take it out and let it cool.

Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, beat 16 oz of softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually add in ½ cup of sugar, mixing until it is fully combined.

Fold in Blueberries

In another small bowl, toss 1 cup of fresh blueberries with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. This will help keep them from sinking. Gently fold these blueberries into the cream cheese mixture.

Combine and Bake

Pour the filling over the cooled crust. Spread it evenly across the top. Bake in the oven for 30-35 minutes. Look for the edges to be set while the center is still slightly jiggly.

Cool and Chill

After baking, let the bars cool in the pan for about 30 minutes. Then, place them in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to chill and set completely.

Slice and Serve

Once the bars are chilled, use the parchment paper to lift them out of the pan. Cut into squares to serve. You can garnish with extra blueberries and a dusting of powdered sugar for a nice touch. Enjoy your lemon blueberry cheesecake bars!

Tips & Tricks

Key Tips for Success

– Avoid overmixing the filling: Mix just until smooth. Overmixing adds air, which can cause cracks.

– Preventing blueberries from sinking: Toss the blueberries with cornstarch before folding them in. This keeps them suspended in the filling.

Serving Suggestions

– Garnishing ideas: Top the bars with fresh blueberries and a dusting of powdered sugar. Add lemon slices on the side for color.

– Pairing with drinks or sides: Enjoy these bars with a glass of iced tea or lemonade. They also pair well with a light salad for a balanced meal.

Presentation Tips

– Plating techniques: Serve the bars on a white platter. This makes the colors pop and draws attention.

– Enhancing visual appeal: Use fresh mint leaves for garnish. They add a nice touch and a burst of color.

Pro Tips

  1. Chill the Cream Cheese: For a smoother filling, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This will help prevent lumps and create a creamy texture.
  2. Use Fresh Blueberries: Opt for fresh blueberries instead of frozen to avoid excess moisture in the filling, which can lead to a soggy texture.
  3. Check for Doneness: The bars are done when the edges are set, and the center has a slight jiggle. Overbaking can lead to cracks, so keep an eye on them!
  4. Let Them Cool Gradually: Allow the cheesecake bars to cool at room temperature before refrigerating. This helps prevent condensation, which can affect the texture.

Variations

Flavor Variations

You can change the fruits in this recipe to match your taste. Try using raspberries or strawberries instead of blueberries. Each fruit gives a different flavor and color. You can also mix fruits for a fun twist.

If you want something different, swap lemons for other citrus fruits. Limes or oranges can add a fresh zing. Just make sure to adjust the juice and zest amounts to keep the flavor balanced.

Dietary Adjustments

If you need gluten-free options, use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs for the crust. Many brands make these. You will get the same great taste without the gluten.

For dairy-free alternatives, use a vegan cream cheese. Look for brands that taste good and are easy to find. You can still enjoy the rich flavor of cheesecake without dairy.

Different Styles

Mini cheesecake bars are a fun way to serve these treats. Just use a muffin pan instead of a baking dish. This way, each bar is a single serving. They are perfect for parties or snacks.

If you want to skip baking altogether, try no-bake variations. Just mix the filling and pour it over the crust. Let it chill in the fridge until set. You’ll have a creamy treat without turning on the oven!

Storage Info

How to Store Cheesecake Bars

To keep your lemon blueberry cheesecake bars fresh, use the right containers. I recommend using an airtight container. This helps to keep moisture in and odors out. Before placing the bars in the container, ensure they are completely cool. Layer parchment paper between the bars if you stack them. This prevents sticking.

For refrigeration, place the cheesecake bars in the fridge right after they have cooled. They need to stay chilled to keep their taste and texture. These bars are best enjoyed cold, so a fridge is the perfect place to store them.

Freezing Guidelines

If you want to save some bars for later, freezing is a great option. Start by cutting the cheesecake into squares. Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag. Be sure to remove as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn.

When you are ready to eat them, take the bars out of the freezer. Place them in the fridge for a few hours to thaw. You can also leave them at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will help them regain their creamy texture.

Shelf Life

These cheesecake bars can stay fresh for about 5 days in the fridge. To check for spoilage, look for any signs of mold or off smells. If the bars feel dry or crumbly, they may no longer be good. When stored properly, you can enjoy these tasty treats for days!

FAQs

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, you can make these bars ahead of time. I suggest you prepare them a day before you plan to serve. After baking, let them cool for 30 minutes. Then, refrigerate for at least 2 hours. They will hold well in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you want to store them longer, you can freeze them for up to 2 months.

What can I substitute for cream cheese?

If you need a substitute for cream cheese, there are options. For a dairy-free version, try using vegan cream cheese. Silken tofu blended until smooth can also work well. Another option is using cashew cream made from soaked cashews and a bit of lemon juice. These alternatives keep the texture creamy and the flavor bright.

How do I know when the cheesecake is done baking?

To check if your cheesecake is done, look for a few signs. The edges should be set, while the center might still jiggle slightly. You can also insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out mostly clean. Let it cool completely before cutting, as it will continue to set as it cools.

You learned how to make delicious cheesecake bars with fresh blueberries. The process starts with preparing the crust and filling. Then, you fold in blueberries and bake everything together.

Remember to follow the tips for a perfect texture and great presentation. You can also explore fun variations to suit your taste. Enjoy your homemade bars, and share them with family and friends for a sweet trea

To make Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars, you need a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll gather: - 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs - ½ cup unsalted butter, melted - ¼ cup granulated sugar - 16 oz cream cheese, softened - ½ cup granulated sugar (for filling) - 2 large eggs - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice - Zest of 1 lemon - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1 cup fresh blueberries - 2 tablespoons cornstarch These ingredients come together to create a creamy, tangy, and sweet dessert. The graham cracker crumbs make a tasty crust, while the cream cheese filling is rich and smooth. Fresh blueberries add a burst of flavor. You can taste the lemon in each bite. I always recommend using fresh ingredients when possible. Fresh blueberries will give you the best taste. The same goes for the lemon juice and zest. They add brightness to the dish. If you use fresh ingredients, your bars will be even better! Feel free to gather these ingredients before starting. This helps keep your cooking fun and organized. Now you're ready to move on to the next step in making these delicious bars! {{ingredient_image_1}} First, set your oven to 325°F (160°C). This is the perfect heat for baking. Grease a 9x9 inch baking pan with some butter. Line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. In a medium bowl, mix 1 ½ cups of graham cracker crumbs, ½ cup of melted unsalted butter, and ¼ cup of sugar. Stir until it is well blended. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your pan to form a crust. Bake for 10 minutes. Once done, take it out and let it cool. In a large bowl, beat 16 oz of softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually add in ½ cup of sugar, mixing until it is fully combined. In another small bowl, toss 1 cup of fresh blueberries with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. This will help keep them from sinking. Gently fold these blueberries into the cream cheese mixture. Pour the filling over the cooled crust. Spread it evenly across the top. Bake in the oven for 30-35 minutes. Look for the edges to be set while the center is still slightly jiggly. After baking, let the bars cool in the pan for about 30 minutes. Then, place them in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to chill and set completely. Once the bars are chilled, use the parchment paper to lift them out of the pan. Cut into squares to serve. You can garnish with extra blueberries and a dusting of powdered sugar for a nice touch. Enjoy your lemon blueberry cheesecake bars! - Avoid overmixing the filling: Mix just until smooth. Overmixing adds air, which can cause cracks. - Preventing blueberries from sinking: Toss the blueberries with cornstarch before folding them in. This keeps them suspended in the filling. - Garnishing ideas: Top the bars with fresh blueberries and a dusting of powdered sugar. Add lemon slices on the side for color. - Pairing with drinks or sides: Enjoy these bars with a glass of iced tea or lemonade. They also pair well with a light salad for a balanced meal. - Plating techniques: Serve the bars on a white platter. This makes the colors pop and draws attention. - Enhancing visual appeal: Use fresh mint leaves for garnish. They add a nice touch and a burst of color. Pro Tips Chill the Cream Cheese: For a smoother filling, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This will help prevent lumps and create a creamy texture. Use Fresh Blueberries: Opt for fresh blueberries instead of frozen to avoid excess moisture in the filling, which can lead to a soggy texture. Check for Doneness: The bars are done when the edges are set, and the center has a slight jiggle. Overbaking can lead to cracks, so keep an eye on them! Let Them Cool Gradually: Allow the cheesecake bars to cool at room temperature before refrigerating. This helps prevent condensation, which can affect the texture. {{image_2}} You can change the fruits in this recipe to match your taste. Try using raspberries or strawberries instead of blueberries. Each fruit gives a different flavor and color. You can also mix fruits for a fun twist. If you want something different, swap lemons for other citrus fruits. Limes or oranges can add a fresh zing. Just make sure to adjust the juice and zest amounts to keep the flavor balanced. If you need gluten-free options, use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs for the crust. Many brands make these. You will get the same great taste without the gluten. For dairy-free alternatives, use a vegan cream cheese. Look for brands that taste good and are easy to find. You can still enjoy the rich flavor of cheesecake without dairy. Mini cheesecake bars are a fun way to serve these treats. Just use a muffin pan instead of a baking dish. This way, each bar is a single serving. They are perfect for parties or snacks. If you want to skip baking altogether, try no-bake variations. Just mix the filling and pour it over the crust. Let it chill in the fridge until set. You’ll have a creamy treat without turning on the oven! To keep your lemon blueberry cheesecake bars fresh, use the right containers. I recommend using an airtight container. This helps to keep moisture in and odors out. Before placing the bars in the container, ensure they are completely cool. Layer parchment paper between the bars if you stack them. This prevents sticking. For refrigeration, place the cheesecake bars in the fridge right after they have cooled. They need to stay chilled to keep their taste and texture. These bars are best enjoyed cold, so a fridge is the perfect place to store them. If you want to save some bars for later, freezing is a great option. Start by cutting the cheesecake into squares. Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag. Be sure to remove as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. When you are ready to eat them, take the bars out of the freezer. Place them in the fridge for a few hours to thaw. You can also leave them at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will help them regain their creamy texture. These cheesecake bars can stay fresh for about 5 days in the fridge. To check for spoilage, look for any signs of mold or off smells. If the bars feel dry or crumbly, they may no longer be good. When stored properly, you can enjoy these tasty treats for days! Yes, you can make these bars ahead of time. I suggest you prepare them a day before you plan to serve. After baking, let them cool for 30 minutes. Then, refrigerate for at least 2 hours. They will hold well in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you want to store them longer, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. If you need a substitute for cream cheese, there are options. For a dairy-free version, try using vegan cream cheese. Silken tofu blended until smooth can also work well. Another option is using cashew cream made from soaked cashews and a bit of lemon juice. These alternatives keep the texture creamy and the flavor bright. To check if your cheesecake is done, look for a few signs. The edges should be set, while the center might still jiggle slightly. You can also insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out mostly clean. Let it cool completely before cutting, as it will continue to set as it cools. You learned how to make delicious cheesecake bars with fresh blueberries. The process starts with preparing the crust and filling. Then, you fold in blueberries and bake everything together. Remember to follow the tips for a perfect texture and great presentation. You can also explore fun variations to suit your taste. Enjoy your homemade bars, and share them with family and friends for a sweet treat!

Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars

Delicious cheesecake bars with a lemon and blueberry flavor, perfect for dessert.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 16
Calories 200 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 0.5 cups unsalted butter, melted
  • 0.25 cups granulated sugar
  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 0.5 cups granulated sugar (for filling)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 zest lemon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup fresh blueberries
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9x9 inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
  • In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and ¼ cup sugar until evenly blended. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
  • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually add in ½ cup of sugar, mixing until fully incorporated.
  • Beat in the eggs one at a time until well blended. Then, add the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract, mixing until the filling is smooth and creamy.
  • In a small bowl, toss the fresh blueberries with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. This will help prevent them from sinking in the cheesecake filling. Gently fold the blueberries into the cream cheese mixture.
  • Pour the filling over the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
  • Once baked, let the bars cool in the pan for about 30 minutes at room temperature. Then, refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully chilled and set.
  • Once chilled, use the parchment paper to lift the cheesecake bars out of the pan. Cut into squares and serve chilled.

Notes

Serve the bars on a platter, garnished with additional blueberries and a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Add a few lemon slices around for color and freshness!
Keyword bars, blueberry, cheesecake, dessert, lemon

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