Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars Recipe

Craving something sweet, creamy, and packed with fresh fruit flavor? These Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars are the perfect answer. They combine a buttery crust, a luscious cream cheese filling, and a sweet-tart blueberry topping. The combination of flavors and textures makes these bars irresistible, whether you’re serving them at a summer picnic, a brunch, or as a dessert for any occasion. Stick around for the full recipe, including ingredient lists, step-by-step instructions, variations, and expert tips to ensure your Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars turn out perfectly!

What are Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars?

Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars are a layered dessert with a buttery shortbread-like crust, a creamy, tangy cheesecake filling, and a juicy blueberry topping. These bars combine the rich flavors of cheesecake with the brightness of fresh blueberries. The result is a dessert that’s indulgent yet refreshing, making it perfect for a variety of occasions, from family dinners to special celebrations.

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Ingredients List for Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars

Here’s everything you’ll need to create these delicious Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars:

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuits)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional, for extra creaminess)

For the Blueberry Topping:

• 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water

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Substitutions and Variations

You can easily modify this recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas:

• Crust Alternatives: Instead of graham crackers, you can use crushed shortbread cookies, vanilla wafers, or digestive biscuits for the base. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free cookies or graham crackers.
• Sugar Substitutes: To reduce sugar, you can use a natural sweetener like coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like monk fruit sweetener.
• Berries: While blueberries are the star here, you can swap them for other berries like raspberries, blackberries, or a mix of your favorite fruits.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use dairy-free cream cheese and replace butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
• Add a Streusel Topping: For extra texture, sprinkle a cinnamon-sugar streusel on top before baking.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s break down the steps to make these mouthwatering Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars from start to finish, including making the crust, the cream cheese filling, and the blueberry topping.

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan (or a 9x9-inch pan for thinner bars) with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to lift the bars out easily after baking.

2. Make the Crust:

In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, cinnamon (if using), and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan, creating an even layer. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a measuring cup to press it down smoothly. Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, then let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.

3. Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling:

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream (if using) until fully combined and smooth.

4. Pour the Filling Over the Crust:

Once the crust has cooled slightly, pour the cream cheese mixture over the top. Spread it evenly with a spatula to ensure a smooth surface.

5. Make the Blueberry Topping:

In a small saucepan, combine the blueberries, sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Stir the mixture over medium heat, adding the water to thin it slightly. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the blueberries start to release their juices and the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and allow the topping to cool for a few minutes.

6. Swirl or Layer the Blueberry Topping:

Spoon the blueberry mixture over the cream cheese filling. You can either spread it out evenly for a fully covered top or gently swirl it into the cream cheese with a knife or toothpick for a marbled effect.

7. Bake the Bars:

Bake the bars in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are slightly golden. If you’re unsure, give the pan a gentle shake—if the filling barely jiggles, it’s done.

8. Cool and Chill the Bars:

Once baked, remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool to room temperature in the pan. Then, refrigerate them for at least 2-3 hours (or overnight) to fully set.

9. Slice and Serve:

Once the bars are fully chilled, lift them out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Slice into squares or bars and serve!

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How to Make Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars: Quick Recap

1. Preheat: Set your oven to 350°F and prepare your baking pan.
2. Crust: Mix graham crackers, sugar, and melted butter. Press into the pan and bake for 8-10 minutes.
3. Filling: Beat cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Pour over the cooled crust.
4. Blueberry Topping: Cook blueberries with sugar, lemon, and cornstarch until thickened. Spoon over the cream cheese mixture.
5. Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes until set. Cool completely, then chill.
6. Slice and Serve: Cut into squares and enjoy!

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even simple desserts can go wrong if you’re not careful. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars:

• Not Letting the Cream Cheese Soften: Cold cream cheese won’t mix smoothly and can leave lumps in the filling. Make sure it’s at room temperature before you start.
• Overmixing the Batter: Once you add the eggs to the cream cheese mixture, avoid overmixing. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks during baking.
• Not Chilling Long Enough: The bars need time to set in the refrigerator, so don’t rush it! Allow at least 2-3 hours for them to chill thoroughly before slicing.
• Skipping the Cornstarch: Don’t skip the cornstarch in the blueberry topping—it helps thicken the fruit mixture, ensuring your bars hold together well.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation is key to making your dessert look as good as it tastes. Here’s how to serve and present your Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars:

How to Serve Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars:

• Chilled: These bars are best served chilled. Let them sit out for about 10 minutes after refrigerating for the ideal texture.
• Clean Slices: For neat slices, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts to avoid smearing the cream cheese filling.

Presentation Ideas for Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars:

• Extra Berries: Top the bars with fresh blueberries just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
• Powdered Sugar: Lightly dust the top with powdered sugar for a touch of elegance.
• Whipped Cream: Serve each bar with a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.
• Mint Leaves: Garnish with a small mint leaf for a fresh and vibrant look.

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Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars Recipe Tips

• Room-Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature to ensure a smooth, lump-free filling.
• Don’t Rush the Chilling: The bars need to fully chill before slicing. This step is essential for the bars to hold their shape and develop their full flavor.
• Crust Variations: Add ¼ cup of chopped nuts (like pecans or almonds) to the crust for added texture and flavor.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes! Frozen blueberries work just as well as fresh ones. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before using to prevent excess moisture in the topping.

2. How long will these bars last?
These bars will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container. They’re a great make-ahead dessert!

3. Can I freeze Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars?
Yes, you can freeze them! Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or store them in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

4. What’s the best way to avoid cracks in the cream cheese layer?
To avoid cracks, make sure not to overmix the batter after adding the eggs. Also, allow the bars to cool slowly at room temperature before refrigerating.

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Conclusion

These Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars are the perfect dessert for any occasion, combining the richness of cheesecake with the fresh, fruity flavor of blueberries. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, potluck, or family gathering, these bars are sure to impress. With their simple preparation and delicious flavor, they’ll become a go-to treat in your recipe collection. Enjoy these creamy, fruity delights, and be sure to share them with friends and family!

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