Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe

If you're looking for a dessert that combines the tangy brightness of lemons, the sweetness of blueberries, and the creamy richness of cheesecake, look no further than Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars. These bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust, a luscious cheesecake filling with hints of lemon, and bursts of fresh blueberries. Perfect for any occasion, from summer picnics to holiday gatherings, these bars offer an irresistible combination of flavors and textures. Ready to make your new favorite dessert? Let’s get started!

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What Are Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars?

Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars are a layered dessert made up of a graham cracker crust, a creamy cheesecake filling flavored with fresh lemon juice and zest, and juicy blueberries scattered throughout. These bars are baked until the filling is set and then chilled for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld. The lemon adds a bright, citrusy zing that perfectly complements the sweetness of the blueberries and the richness of the cheesecake. They’re easy to serve, and since they’re cut into squares or rectangles, they’re ideal for sharing.

Ingredients List for Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars

Here’s everything you’ll need to make the graham cracker crust, the lemon cheesecake filling, and the blueberry topping. Make sure you have all the ingredients on hand before you begin.

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12–14 full graham crackers)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)

For the Lemon Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz cream cheese (2 blocks, softened to room temperature)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• ¼ cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (from about 1–2 lemons)
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries (if using frozen, do not thaw)

Optional Topping:

• Powdered sugar (for dusting)
• Lemon zest (for garnish)

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is very versatile. Here are some ideas for substituting ingredients or making variations to fit your preferences.

• Crust Variations: Instead of graham crackers, you can use crushed digestive biscuits, vanilla wafer cookies, or even a shortbread crust.
• Dairy-Free Option: You can make these bars dairy-free by using dairy-free cream cheese, dairy-free butter, and coconut cream in place of sour cream.
• Gluten-Free Version: To make these bars gluten-free, simply use gluten-free graham crackers or cookies for the crust.
• Sugar Substitutes: For a lower-sugar version, you can replace the granulated sugar with a sugar substitute like Stevia or Monk Fruit sweetener. Keep in mind that sugar substitutes may slightly affect the texture.
• Mixed Berry Variation: For an added burst of flavor, substitute the blueberries with a mixture of raspberries, blackberries, or strawberries.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these easy instructions to make your delicious Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a 9x9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This will make it easier to lift the bars out of the pan once they’ve cooled.

Step 2: Make the Graham Cracker Crust

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is well combined and resembles wet sand. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan, making sure the crust is firm and level. Use the bottom of a measuring cup or your hands to press it down tightly. Bake the crust for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden. Remove it from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.

Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Mix on medium speed for 2–3 minutes, until smooth and creamy.

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Next, add the sour cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Beat on low speed until fully combined. Be careful not to overmix the filling, as this can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks in the cheesecake.

Step 4: Add the Blueberries

Gently fold the fresh or frozen blueberries into the cheesecake mixture using a spatula. If you’re using frozen blueberries, do not thaw them first, as they may release too much liquid into the cheesecake.

Step 5: Pour the Filling Over the Crust

Once the crust has cooled, pour the lemon cheesecake filling evenly over the graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to smooth out the top. Make sure the blueberries are distributed evenly throughout the filling.

Step 6: Bake the Cheesecake Bars

Bake the cheesecake bars in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is only slightly jiggly when you gently shake the pan. The bars will continue to firm up as they cool. Be careful not to overbake, as this can lead to a dry texture.

Step 7: Cool and Chill

Once the cheesecake bars are baked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool completely at room temperature. Then, transfer the bars to the refrigerator to chill for at least 3 hours, or overnight for best results. Chilling allows the cheesecake to set fully, making it easier to cut and giving it the perfect creamy texture.

Step 8: Slice and Serve

Once the bars are fully chilled, lift them out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut the bars into squares or rectangles using a sharp knife. For clean cuts, wipe the knife with a damp cloth between slices. If desired, dust the top with powdered sugar and garnish with extra lemon zest before serving.

How to Cook Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a quick overview of the main steps for making these delicious Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars:

1. Preheat and Prep: Set your oven to 325°F and prepare a 9x9-inch pan with parchment paper.
2. Make the Crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and butter. Press into the pan and bake for 8–10 minutes.
3. Prepare the Filling: Beat cream cheese, sugar, eggs, sour cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Add Blueberries: Gently fold in fresh or frozen blueberries.
5. Assemble and Bake: Pour the filling over the baked crust and bake for 35–40 minutes.
6. Cool and Chill: Let the bars cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours.
7. Slice and Serve: Cut into squares, garnish with powdered sugar and lemon zest, and enjoy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even a simple recipe like this can go wrong if you’re not careful. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Overmixing the Cheesecake Batter: Incorporating too much air into the batter can cause the cheesecake to crack or rise unevenly. Mix on low speed and stop as soon as the ingredients are fully combined.
• Overbaking the Cheesecake: The cheesecake filling should be set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center when you take it out of the oven. Overbaking can lead to a dry, crumbly texture.
• Not Letting the Bars Cool: These bars need to be fully chilled before serving to achieve the right texture. Don’t rush the cooling process; refrigerate them for at least 3 hours or overnight.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation can take your Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars from delicious to stunning. Here’s how to make them look as good as they taste.

How to Serve Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars

• Chilled: These bars taste best when they’re fully chilled. Serve them straight from the refrigerator for a creamy, refreshing dessert.
• With Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each bar for an extra touch of indulgence.
• With a Lemon Twist: For a little extra flavor, serve the bars with a drizzle of lemon curd on top or on the side.

Presentation Ideas for Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars

• Garnish with Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of freshly grated lemon zest on top of the bars not only adds color but also enhances the lemon flavor.
• Add Fresh Blueberries: Place a few fresh blueberries on top of each bar for a decorative touch that hints at the flavors inside.
• Serve on a Dessert Platter: Arrange the bars neatly on a platter and sprinkle with powdered sugar for a bakery-style presentation.

Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe Tips

• Storage: Store the cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They taste even better after a day or two as the flavors continue to meld.
• Freezing: These bars can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
• Make-Ahead Tip: You can make these bars a day or two in advance and keep them chilled until you’re ready to serve them. This makes them a great option for parties and gatherings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use frozen blueberries?
A: Yes! Frozen blueberries work well in this recipe. Just make sure not to thaw them before adding them to the batter to prevent excess moisture.

Q: Why did my cheesecake crack?
A: Cracks in cheesecake can occur if the filling is overmixed or if it’s overbaked. Make sure to mix on low speed and remove the bars from the oven when the center is still slightly jiggly.

Q: Can I make these bars without the lemon?
A: If you prefer a more classic cheesecake flavor, you can omit the lemon juice and zest. The bars will still be delicious, though they won’t have the same bright, citrusy flavor.

Q: Can I use a different fruit instead of blueberries?
A: Absolutely! This recipe works well with other fruits like raspberries, blackberries, or strawberries. Just adjust the sugar slightly if using a more tart fruit.

Conclusion

Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars are the perfect dessert for when you want something refreshing, creamy, and indulgent all at once. The buttery graham cracker crust, zesty lemon filling, and bursts of sweet blueberries create a delicious balance of flavors that everyone will love. These bars are ideal for parties, potlucks, or just a casual dessert at home. Follow this step-by-step recipe, and you’ll have a beautiful and delicious treat that’s sure to impress. Enjoy!

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