Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars Recipe

Looking for an easy yet indulgent dessert? These Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars are the perfect treat! With a buttery oatmeal crumble crust, a rich cream cheese filling, and fresh, juicy blueberries, these bars offer the ideal balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re craving a fruity dessert or need something special for a family gathering, these cream cheese bars are the answer. This recipe is simple, customizable, and guaranteed to impress.

Made with common pantry ingredients, including quick oats, sweetened condensed milk, and fresh blueberries, this dessert can be whipped up in just a few steps. The combination of tangy cream cheese and sweet blueberries in every bite makes these bars the perfect dessert for any occasion, from potlucks to picnics.

These Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars are a delicious combination of a buttery, oat crumble base with a rich, creamy cheesecake filling, topped with fresh blueberries for a burst of sweetness. The warm, golden brown crumble contrasts perfectly with the creamy filling, making these bars the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering, a summer party, or just as a sweet indulgence, these blueberry cream cheese bars are sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

For the Base:

• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar
• 2/3 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/3 cups quick oats (uncooked)

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 egg yolk

For the Topping:

• 1 cup fresh blueberries (or raspberries)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper or spraying it with cooking spray.
2. Make the Crust: In a large bowl, combine softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Mix well. Stir in baking soda, salt, flour, and oats until the mixture is well combined. Press half of this mixture into the prepared pan. Bake for 13 minutes, or until lightly golden around the edges.
3. Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: While the base is baking, beat the softened cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, whisking until well mixed. Stir in vanilla extract and egg yolk until fully incorporated.
4. Assemble the Bars: Once the bottom layer has baked, pour the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crust. Gently spread it out with a spatula. Scatter the fresh blueberries (or raspberries) on top of the cream cheese filling. Then, sprinkle the remaining oatmeal crumble mixture over the fruit and press it lightly.
5. Bake the Bars: Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the filling is set.
6. Cool and Serve: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, cut them into squares and store in the refrigerator.

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Tips

• Soften the cream cheese before mixing to ensure a smooth, lump-free filling.
• Use fresh berries for the best flavor, though frozen berries can also work—just be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess liquid.
• Make sure the base is pressed firmly into the pan to create a stable crust for the filling to set on.
• Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to ensure neat, even slices.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Berry Alternatives: If you don’t have blueberries, feel free to substitute with raspberries, blackberries, or even strawberries for a different twist.
• Oatmeal Base: You can use gluten-free oats for a gluten-free version of these bars.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk Substitute: If you don’t have sweetened condensed milk, you can use regular milk and add sugar to taste, though the texture may vary.
• Add Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the oatmeal crumble mixture for extra flavor.

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FAQs

• Can I make these bars ahead of time?
  Yes! These blueberry cream cheese bars can be made a day or two ahead. Store them in the refrigerator for the best flavor and texture.
• Can I freeze these bars?
  Yes, these bars freeze well. Once cooled, cut into individual squares and store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.
• Can I use a different type of fruit?
  Absolutely! Try using raspberries, blackberries, or strawberries for a different flavor profile.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve these Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
• Pair them with a cup of iced tea or a cold glass of milk for the perfect afternoon snack.
• For a brunch treat, serve these bars alongside a fresh fruit salad or a warm cinnamon roll.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars combine the best of both worlds: a sweet, buttery oat crumble and a luscious cream cheese filling. They’re simple to make, yet feel special enough for any occasion. With the balance of tangy cream cheese, sweet berries, and a chewy oat crust, they’re sure to become a new favorite in your dessert repertoire. Whether you enjoy them as an afternoon snack, a picnic treat, or a crowd-pleasing dessert, these bars are sure to be a hit!