There’s something about Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars that makes my heart sing! They’re the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, sweet, and just a bit tart, which is a symphony for the taste buds. I remember the first time I made these bars; it was a sunny afternoon, and I decided to whip up something special for a summer potluck. Little did I know, I’d end up with a recipe that would become my go-to dessert for gatherings, picnics, and even just a cozy night in. The vibrant colors and the refreshing flavors of lemon and blueberry remind me of lazy afternoons spent under the sun, savoring each delightful bite.
These bars are not only delicious but incredibly easy to make! They’re like a little slice of happiness and sophistication that you can whip up at home without feeling overwhelmed. Believe me, once you try this recipe, it will be hard to resist making them again and again. Let’s dive into the magic of these Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars!
What’s in Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars?
For the crust: The crust is made from crushed graham crackers mixed with butter and sugar, which gives it that crispy, buttery base. I love using *Honey Maid Graham Crackers*—they’re just sweet enough!
For the cheesecake filling: Cream cheese is the star here; it provides that rich and creamy texture. I always go for *Philadelphia Cream Cheese* because it never lets me down. You’ll also need sugar, eggs, and freshly squeezed lemon juice for a zesty kick.
For the blueberry topping: Fresh blueberries bring a beautiful burst of flavor. You can use frozen ones if fresh isn’t in season, just make sure they’re thawed and drained!
Is Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars Good for You?
Now, let’s chat about the health aspects of these delightful bars. While they’re certainly a treat, there are some benefits to the ingredients:
Blueberries: These little gems are packed with antioxidants and are known for their health benefits, such as improving heart health and brain function. Plus, they add a lovely natural sweetness!
Lemon Juice: Not only does lemon juice elevate the flavor, but it also adds a dose of vitamin C, which is great for your immune system.
Cream Cheese: While it adds that lovely creamy texture, it’s worth noting that it’s high in fat and calories, so moderation is key. You could also swap for low-fat cream cheese if you want to lighten things up!
Keep these in mind when enjoying your luscious Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars!
Ingredients for Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars
This recipe serves about 12-16 bars.
– 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
– ¼ cup granulated sugar
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened (I prefer *Philadelphia Cream Cheese*)
– ¾ cup granulated sugar (for the filling)
– 3 large eggs
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 2 cups fresh blueberries (or frozen, thawed and drained)
How to Make Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars?
1. **Preheat your oven** to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy lifting later.
2. **Make the crust:** In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until it resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes and let it cool slightly.
3. **Prepare the filling:** In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add ¾ cup of sugar and mix until combined. Then add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed until just incorporated—don’t overmix!
4. **Add the lemon juice and zest:** Blend in the fresh lemon juice and zest. The mixture should be nice and creamy.
5. **Fold in the blueberries:** Gently fold in the blueberries, being careful not to break them too much. Pour the filling onto the cooled crust.
6. **Bake** in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until the center is set and no longer jiggly. You want them to be firm but not overbaked.
7. **Cool Down:** Let the bars cool completely in the pan, then transfer to the fridge for at least 4 hours (or overnight for best results) before slicing.
8. **Slice and Serve:** Use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the pan, slice them into squares, and enjoy!
Delicious Customization & Serving Suggestions
These bars are incredibly versatile! You can mix things up by adding a swirl of blueberry compote on top before baking for a more pronounced blueberry flavor or even fold in some lemon zest for an extra zing. For presentation, a dusting of powdered sugar before serving makes them look fancy without much extra effort.
Pair these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, and you’re in for a treat. They also make a wonderful addition to any picnic—just pack them up in a container and you’re good to go!
I hope you give these Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars a try! They’re sure to become a favorite in your kitchen like they are in mine. Don’t forget to share your experience and any twists you add to the recipe! Happy baking! 🍋🫐
