Looking for a sweet, tangy treat that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the freshness of lemon and blueberries? Look no further than these Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars! This delightful dessert is perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply want to treat yourself. Packed with zesty lemon flavor, juicy blueberries, and a creamy cheesecake filling, these bars are a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make. Keep reading for the full recipe, step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and more!
What Are Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars?
Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars are a baked dessert that combines a buttery crust, a lemon-flavored cheesecake filling, and fresh blueberries. Unlike a traditional cheesecake, these bars are baked in a rectangular dish and cut into squares, making them easy to serve and perfect for sharing. The blend of tangy lemon, sweet blueberries, and creamy cheesecake creates a dessert that’s both refreshing and decadent at the same time. These bars are ideal for summer picnics, holiday gatherings, or whenever you need a sweet, fruity treat.
Ingredients List for Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars
Here’s a comprehensive list of ingredients you’ll need to make these delicious bars. To ensure your Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars turn out perfect, use fresh, high-quality ingredients.
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs – This forms the base of the bars, adding a crunchy, slightly sweet layer.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar – Adds a hint of sweetness to the crust.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted – Helps bind the crust together and adds richness.
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened – The star of the cheesecake, bringing that creamy, smooth texture.
- ¾ cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the filling to balance the tanginess of the lemon.
- 2 large eggs – Helps give structure and richness to the filling.
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest – Adds a pop of fresh lemon flavor.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice – Enhances the tangy, citrusy flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Balances the flavors and adds depth.
- ½ cup sour cream – Makes the filling extra creamy and tangy.
For the Blueberry Swirl:
- 1 cup fresh blueberries – Provides bursts of sweetness in every bite.
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar – Sweetens the blueberries just enough.
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice – Complements the blueberries with a little tang.
Substitutions and Variations
If you want to customize these bars or accommodate dietary preferences, here are some substitutions and variations you can try:
- Gluten-Free Crust: Substitute the graham crackers with gluten-free graham crackers or almond flour.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese and butter alternatives to make the recipe dairy-free.
- Sugar Substitutes: Swap the sugar for a natural sweetener like honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit.
- Different Fruits: If you don’t have blueberries, you can use raspberries, blackberries, or even strawberries for a different flavor profile.
- Add a Crumb Topping: For a little extra crunch, sprinkle a streusel topping made of flour, sugar, butter, and oats before baking.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that we have all our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the process of making Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars. The recipe is simple and requires only a few steps. Here’s a breakdown:
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This ensures the bars bake evenly.
- Prepare the Crust: In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated and stick together when pressed.
- Press the Crust into the Pan: Line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of the pan in an even layer, then bake for 8-10 minutes until set. Let it cool while you prepare the filling.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and sour cream until everything is well combined.
- Prepare the Blueberry Swirl: In a small saucepan, combine the blueberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the berries start to release their juices and become soft, about 5-7 minutes. Use the back of a spoon to gently mash the berries, then set aside to cool slightly.
- Assemble the Bars: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it into an even layer. Dollop the blueberry mixture on top of the filling and use a knife to gently swirl it into the cheesecake.
- Bake the Cheesecake Bars: Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the edges are set but the center is still slightly jiggly. Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours to firm up.
How to Cook Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars: A Step-by-Step Guide
For a quick recap, here’s how to make Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars, step by step:
- Prepare the Crust: Mix the graham cracker crumbs with sugar and melted butter, then bake for 8-10 minutes.
- Prepare the Filling: Beat cream cheese and sugar together, then add eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and sour cream.
- Make the Blueberry Swirl: Cook blueberries with sugar and lemon juice, then mash slightly.
- Assemble: Spread the cheesecake filling over the crust and swirl in the blueberry mixture.
- Bake: Bake at 325°F for 30-35 minutes. Let cool and refrigerate before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for:
- Overmixing the Filling: Overmixing the cheesecake filling can cause too much air to get into the batter, leading to cracks in the cheesecake as it bakes. Mix just until smooth.
- Not Letting the Bars Cool Properly: Patience is key! If you cut into the bars before they have fully cooled and set, they will be too soft and won’t hold their shape.
- Using Too Much Lemon Juice: Be careful not to add more lemon juice than the recipe calls for, as too much liquid can make the cheesecake filling runny.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Once your Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars are ready, the next step is all about serving them beautifully. Here are some tips to elevate your presentation:
- Cut Even Squares: For clean, professional-looking bars, use a sharp knife and wipe it between each cut.
- Garnish with Fresh Berries: Add a handful of fresh blueberries on top of the bars for an extra pop of color.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: For a simple, elegant touch, lightly dust the bars with powdered sugar before serving.
How to Serve Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars
Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars can be served chilled or at room temperature, making them perfect for any season. Serve them as part of a dessert buffet or as a light, refreshing end to a meal. For added decadence, you can serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.
Presentation Ideas for Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars
Here are a few creative ways to present your Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars:
- Tiered Dessert Stand: Display the bars on a tiered dessert stand for a fancy touch, especially at parties or gatherings.
- Individual Servings: Serve the bars in individual dessert plates with a few fresh blueberries and a slice of lemon for decoration.
- Mason Jars: Layer crumbled crust, cheesecake filling, and blueberry sauce in small mason jars for a fun and portable option.
Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe Tips
To ensure your Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars come out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Don’t Rush the Cooling: Allow the bars to cool completely before refrigerating. This helps the cheesecake set properly and prevents cracks.
- Use Fresh Lemon Zest: Fresh lemon zest adds a more vibrant flavor than bottled lemon juice alone, so don’t skip this step!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them before using to prevent excess liquid in the filling.
2. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars can be made up to 2 days in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator.
3. How long do these bars last?
The bars will last up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
4. Can I freeze Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars?
Yes! These bars freeze well. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
5. Do I need a water bath to bake the cheesecake bars?
No, since these are cheesecake bars, they don’t require a water bath like a traditional cheesecake.
Conclusion
Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars are a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that offers the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors. Whether you're looking for a crowd-pleasing treat for a special occasion or just want to indulge in something delightful, these bars are sure to hit the spot. Follow the steps in this recipe, avoid common mistakes, and use the serving tips to impress your family and friends with this irresistible dessert!
PrintLemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars combine tangy lemon and sweet blueberries in a rich cheesecake filling with a buttery crust. A delightful balance of flavors makes this dessert irresistible.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours (including cooling and chilling)
- Yield: 12 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Sugar
- Butter
- Cream cheese
- Eggs
- Blueberries
- Lemon zest
- Lemon juice
- Vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare a baking dish.
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter for the crust. Press into the dish.
- In a bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, and lemon zest until smooth.
- Add eggs, one at a time, followed by lemon juice and vanilla. Mix well.
- Gently fold in fresh blueberries.
- Pour the mixture over the crust and bake until set.
- Cool, then refrigerate before slicing into bars. Serve chilled.
Notes
- For a more intense lemon flavor, increase the amount of lemon zest.
- Use fresh or frozen blueberries depending on availability.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
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