Blueberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Discover a delightful dessert with our Blueberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars recipe! Creamy cheesecake meets tangy lemon and juicy blueberries for a flavor explosion. Perfect for any occasion, these bars are easy to make and sure to impress.

Ingredients for Blueberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars:

• Sugar
• Ground cinnamon
• Graham crackers
• Unsalted butter
• Cream cheese
• Eggs
• Lemons (zested and juiced)
• Fresh blueberries

Preparing the Crust:

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F and buttering a 9×9 inch metal baking pan. Line the bottom with parchment paper to make it easier to remove the bars later.

Creating the Creamy Filling:

In a large bowl, mix together sugar, cinnamon, graham cracker crumbs, and melted butter. Press this mixture into the prepared pan to form the crust. Bake for 10-12 minutes until set, then let it cool on a rack.

Assembling and Baking the Bars:

While the crust is cooling, prepare the filling. In a stand mixer, beat cream cheese until softened. Add sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and eggs, beating until smooth. Pour the filling over the cooled crust and sprinkle with fresh blueberries. Bake for 35-45 minutes until the center is set.

Chilling and Serving the Bars:

Once baked, let the bars cool completely before refrigerating for at least 3 hours. Lift them out using the parchment paper overhang, slice into squares, and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Variations and Tips for Blueberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars:

• Experiment with different fruits like raspberries or strawberries for a twist on the classic recipe.
• Drizzle with lemon glaze or top with whipped cream for added indulgence.
• For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free graham crackers or almond flour for the crust.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

1. Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?

• Yes, frozen blueberries can be used, but be sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the filling.

1. How long do the bars need to chill in the refrigerator?

• It’s recommended to chill the bars for at least 3 hours before serving to allow them to set properly.

1. Can I make these bars ahead of time?

• Yes, these bars can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

1. How should leftovers be stored?

• Leftover bars should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

1. Can I use a different type of citrus fruit instead of lemons?

• Yes, you can experiment with other citrus fruits like limes or oranges for different flavor variations.