Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars

why make this recipe

Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat that combines the rich, creamy taste of cheesecake with the fresh, zesty notes of lemon and the sweetness of blueberries. These bars are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a birthday, or simply enjoying a warm day at home. They are easy to make and are sure to impress your family and friends!

how to make Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons melted butter
• 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 cup fresh blueberries

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking dish to form the crust.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the sugar and vanilla, and mix until combined.
4. Add the eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest, mixing until everything is well blended.
5. Gently fold in the blueberries.
6. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust in the baking dish.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until set.
8. Allow to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before slicing into bars. Serve chilled.

how to serve Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars

These cheesecake bars are best served cold. You can cut them into squares and place them on a nice serving platter. They make an excellent dessert after meals or a sweet snack throughout the day. Garnish with a few fresh blueberries or a sprinkle of lemon zest for a pretty touch.

how to store Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars

To store these bars, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about a week. If you want to save them for longer, consider freezing them. Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

tips to make Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars

• Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing.
• Don’t overmix the eggs; just blend until combined.
• Use fresh blueberries for the best flavor, but frozen ones can work too; just make sure to thaw and drain them first.
• Let the bars cool completely before refrigerating, as this helps them to set better.

variation

You can customize these bars by using different fruits, such as raspberries or strawberries, instead of blueberries. Additionally, consider adding a layer of whipped cream on top for a richer dessert, or try using a different type of crust, like an almond meal crust for a gluten-free option.

FAQs

Can I make these bars in advance?
Yes, these cheesecake bars are great for making ahead of time. They actually taste better after chilling, so you can prepare them the day before your event.

Can I use store-bought crust instead of making my own?
Absolutely! Using a store-bought crust can save time. Just make sure it fits the size of your baking dish.

How do I know when the cheesecake bars are done baking?
The bars are done baking when they are set in the center but may still have a slight jiggle. They will firm up as they cool.