Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Name: Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup granulated sugar; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup sour cream; Juice and zest of 2 lemons; 2 cups fresh blueberries

Published: April 28, 2025

by kaeli

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars

chocolate strawberry cheesecake.

Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners

Ingredients for Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars

For more inspiration, check out this strawberry crunch poke cake recipe.

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Graham Cracker Crumbs: About 1 ½ cups are needed for the crust; choose finely crushed crumbs for the best texture.
Unsalted Butter: You’ll need half a cup melted butter to bind the graham cracker crumbs together.
Granulated Sugar: Approximately one cup adds sweetness to both the crust and filling.
Cream Cheese: Use two packages (16 ounces total), softened to room temperature for a smooth filling.
Sour Cream: One cup gives the cheesecake its creamy texture and slight tanginess.
Lemon Juice and Zest: Freshly squeezed juice from about two lemons and their zest add bright flavor.
Blueberries: Use around two cups of fresh blueberries for a burst of flavor in every bite.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation

How to Make Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and sugar until well mixed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased baking dish.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In another bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add granulated sugar while mixing until fully combined. Then blend in sour cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.

Step 3: Add Blueberries

Gently fold in fresh blueberries into the cheesecake filling mixture. Be careful not to crush them too much so they retain their shape during baking.

Step 4: Assemble

Spread the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust evenly. Use a spatula to ensure it’s level across the top.

Step 5: Bake

Place in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes or until set in the center. The edges should start turning golden brown while maintaining a slight jiggle in the middle.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Allow cooling at room temperature before refrigerating for at least four hours or overnight. Once chilled, cut into squares and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh blueberries and real lemon juice for optimal flavor.
Chill Time: Giving your cheesecake bars enough time in the fridge ensures they set properly for easier slicing.
Baking Dish Choice: A glass baking dish allows you to monitor browning better than metal pans do.

How to Serve Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars

This Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

Whipped Cream: A light, airy topping that enhances the creamy texture of the cheesecake bars.
Fresh Berries: Adds a burst of flavor and color, complementing the blueberry notes in the dessert.
Iced Tea: A refreshing beverage that balances the sweetness of the cheesecake with its subtle acidity.

Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

Make Ahead: You can prepare the crust and filling a day in advance. Store the crust in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours. The filling can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to two days before baking.
Storing: Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, consider freezing them for up to three months.
Reheating: To reheat, place individual bars in a microwave-safe dish and heat for about 15-20 seconds until warmed through. Alternatively, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm bars on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes.

Suggestions for Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars:

Avoid Overmixing the Batter

Overmixing can lead to a dense texture in your Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars. When combining the cream cheese, sugar, and eggs, mix just until smooth. If you overdo it, air bubbles may form, which can cause cracks during baking. A light hand ensures a creamy consistency that melts in your mouth. perfect breakfast pairing Remember to scrape down the sides of the bowl to incorporate all ingredients evenly without excessive mixing. Keeping this tip in mind will help you achieve that perfect cheesecake texture.

Use Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients is crucial for making delicious Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars. Fresh lemons provide a vibrant flavor that bottled lemon juice cannot replicate. Also, opt for fresh blueberries as they offer better taste and texture than frozen ones. If you use frozen blueberries, be prepared for extra moisture that can affect the bars’ structure. Always check expiration dates on cream cheese and other dairy products, as fresh dairy enhances the overall taste of your dessert. For more inspiration, check out this easy preserved lemons recipe recipe.

Don’t Skip the Chilling Time

Chilling is an essential step when preparing Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars. After baking, allow them to cool at room temperature before placing them in the fridge. This process helps firm up the cheesecake filling and allows flavors to meld beautifully. Skipping this step may result in a soft and runny texture that doesn’t hold its shape when cut. Ideally, let your cheesecake bars chill for at least four hours or overnight for optimal results.

Properly Line Your Baking Pan

Properly lining your baking pan is vital for easy removal of Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars. Use parchment paper to line the bottom and sides of your pan, leaving some overhang to lift out the bars after they cool. This technique prevents sticking and makes cutting clean slices much easier. If you forget this step, you might end up with crumbled edges or damaged bars when trying to serve them. Take a moment to ensure your pan is lined correctly for a flawless presentation.

FAQs:

What are Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars?

Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars are a delightful dessert that combines creamy cheesecake with tangy lemon flavor and fresh blueberries atop a buttery crust. The base usually consists of crushed graham crackers mixed with melted butter, while the filling blends cream cheese, sugar, eggs, lemon juice, and zest for brightness. Topped with juicy blueberries, these bars offer a refreshing twist on traditional cheesecake that’s perfect for summer gatherings or any special occasion.

How do I store leftover Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars?

To store leftover Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars properly, make sure they are fully cooled before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also place them in an airtight container to prevent drying out or absorbing odors from other foods in the fridge. These bars last well in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, consider freezing them; just be sure to wrap them securely for up to three months.

Can I use other fruits in place of blueberries?

Yes! While blueberries complement lemon beautifully in Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars, you can substitute them with other fruits like raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries based on your preference. Keep in mind that different fruits may vary in sweetness and acidity levels; adjust sugar accordingly if needed. Always wash and dry any fruit thoroughly before adding it to avoid excess moisture ruining the texture of your cheesecake bars.

Can I make these cheesecake bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! To make Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars gluten-free, simply substitute regular graham crackers with gluten-free options available at most grocery stores. Ensure that all other ingredients used are certified gluten-free as well—especially cream cheese and any toppings you might add later. This way, everyone can enjoy this delicious treat without worrying about gluten sensitivity while savoring its delightful flavors.

Conclusion for Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars:

In summary, mastering Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars requires attention to detail from using fresh ingredients to allowing proper chilling time after baking. Avoid common pitfalls such as overmixing or skipping steps like lining your pan effectively. By following these tips and addressing common questions regarding storage and substitutions, you’ll create a delectable treat that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. With their vibrant flavors and creamy consistency paired with juicy blueberries, these bars stand out as an irresistible dessert option perfect for any occasion!

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