Tangy Blueberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Zesty Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe for Sweet Bliss

Whipping up a delectable lemon blueberry cheesecake bars treat promises pure culinary magic.

Sweet berries dance alongside tangy citrus notes in this irresistible dessert.

Creamy layers promise an extraordinary flavor adventure waiting to unfold.

Soft, rich textures melt perfectly across your palate with each delightful bite.

Summer memories sparkle through these gorgeous squares that combine classic comfort with elegant simplicity.

Smooth cream cheese harmonizes beautifully with zesty lemon and plump blueberries.

We promise this recipe will become your new favorite summer indulgence.

What Makes Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars So Tasty

  • Burst with Fruity Delight: Blueberries and zesty lemon create a mouthwatering flavor combination that dances on your taste buds, bringing a refreshing twist to classic cheesecake bars.
  • Craft with Ease: This recipe requires minimal baking skills, making it perfect for novice bakers who want to impress family and friends with a professional-looking dessert.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Perfect for potlucks, summer gatherings, or casual get-togethers, these bars are a guaranteed hit that will have everyone asking for seconds and the recipe.
  • No-Fuss Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can prepare these delectable bars quickly, allowing more time to enjoy with loved ones instead of spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients for Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars

Crust Ingredients:
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: A classic base that provides a sweet and crunchy foundation for the cheesecake bars.
  • Sugar: Adds sweetness to the crust and helps it bind together.
  • Butter (Melted): Creates a rich, golden base that holds the crust ingredients together.
Filling Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese: The creamy, tangy base that gives cheesecake its signature smooth texture.
  • Sugar: Sweetens the rich cream cheese filling.
  • Lemon Zest: Brings a bright, citrusy flavor that complements the creamy cheesecake.
  • Eggs: Help bind the filling and provide structure to the cheesecake bars.
  • Lemon Juice: Adds a fresh, tart flavor that enhances the overall taste.
  • Vanilla: Provides a warm, sweet undertone to the filling.
Fruit Topping:
  • Fresh Blueberries: Adds bursts of juicy sweetness and a pop of color to the creamy cheesecake bars.

How to Bake Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to 350°F and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.

Step 2: Create the Crumbly Crust

Combine the ingredients for the delectable base:
  • Graham cracker crumbs
  • Granulated sugar
  • Melted butter

Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan, creating a solid foundation for your cheesecake bars.

Step 3: Whip Up the Creamy Filling

In a large mixing bowl, blend together:
  • Cream cheese
  • Sugar
  • Lemon zest

Beat until the mixture becomes silky smooth and free of lumps, ensuring a velvety texture.

Step 4: Incorporate the Binding Agents

Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.

Then pour in:
  • Lemon juice
  • Vanilla extract

Continue mixing until everything is perfectly combined and uniform.

Step 5: Sprinkle in the Burst of Flavor

Gently fold fresh blueberries into the cheesecake mixture, distributing them evenly throughout without crushing the delicate berries.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pour the blueberry-studded filling over the prepared crust. Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is just set but still slightly jiggly.

Step 7: Chill and Slice

Allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.

Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the bars out and slice into perfect squares. Serve chilled and enjoy the tangy, sweet sensation.

Tips for Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars Perfection

  • Use ripe, fresh blueberries for the most vibrant flavor and color in your cheesecake bars.
  • Line the baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal and clean cutting of bars.
  • Avoid overmixing the cheesecake batter to prevent a tough, dense texture.
  • Zest the lemon before juicing to maximize flavor and ensure even distribution of citrus notes.
  • Let the bars cool completely in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to achieve the perfect creamy consistency.

Variations on Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars

  • Gluten-Free Blueberry Lemon Bars: Replace graham cracker crumbs with almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs for a celiac-friendly version.
  • Vegan Cheesecake Alternative: Swap cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese and use coconut cream instead of eggs. Add chia seeds for binding.
  • Low-Sugar Berry Bars: Substitute sugar with stevia or monk fruit sweetener. Use Greek yogurt with cream cheese to reduce overall calories.
  • Dairy-Free Fruity Squares: Use plant-based cream cheese alternatives like tofu-based spreads and coconut cream to create a lactose-free dessert option.

Serving Ideas for Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars

  • Picnic Perfect Treat: Pack these bars in a cute container for outdoor summer gatherings, adding a fresh and zesty dessert option that travels well.
  • Brunch Showstopper: Slice into elegant bite-sized pieces and arrange on a decorative platter, creating a stunning centerpiece for weekend brunches with friends.
  • Dessert Bar Delight: Create a DIY dessert station by cutting bars into smaller squares, offering guests a chance to sample these tangy and sweet cheesecake bars alongside other miniature treats.
  • Afternoon Tea Companion: Serve these bars alongside hot tea or iced coffee, complementing the bright lemon flavor with a light, refreshing beverage that enhances the dessert's delicate taste.

Storage Advice for Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.
  • Wrap individual bars tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil before refrigerating to preserve moisture and flavor.
  • Place parchment paper between layers when stacking bars to prevent sticking and preserve their delicate texture.
  • Freeze cheesecake bars for up to 3 months by wrapping each bar separately in plastic wrap, then placing in a freezer-safe container.

FAQs

  • Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them completely to prevent excess moisture in the cheesecake bars.

  • How do I prevent the blueberries from sinking to the bottom?

Toss the blueberries in a light coating of flour before folding them into the batter. This helps them stay suspended throughout the cheesecake.

  • What if I don't have a zester for the lemon?

Use a fine grater or the smallest holes on a box grater to carefully remove just the yellow part of the lemon peel, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath.

Print
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Tangy Blueberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Tangy Blueberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe


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4.9 from 16 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 9 1x

Description

Creamy lemon blueberry cheesecake bars blend tangy citrus with sweet berries in a delightful dessert. Crumbly graham crust and silky filling create a perfect balance that will enchant guests at any gathering.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cream cheese
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup blueberries

Crust Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup butter

Flavor Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan by lining with parchment paper, creating overhanging edges for easy removal. Preheat oven to 350°F.
  2. Combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and sugar, pressing firmly into an even layer across the bottom of the prepared pan.
  3. Using an electric mixer, whip cream cheese until velvety and smooth, gradually incorporating sugar and lemon zest.
  4. Introduce eggs individually, ensuring each is fully integrated before adding the next, then blend in lemon juice and vanilla extract until mixture becomes uniform.
  5. Carefully distribute fresh blueberries across the cheesecake batter, using gentle folding motions to prevent crushing the delicate fruit.
  6. Gently pour cheesecake mixture over the prepared graham cracker crust, spreading evenly to cover the entire surface.
  7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, watching for a slightly firm center with a gentle wobble when pan is nudged.
  8. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely at room temperature for approximately 1 hour.
  9. Refrigerate for minimum 3 hours to set thoroughly before cutting into rectangular bars.
  10. Slice chilled dessert into uniform squares, wiping knife between cuts for clean edges.

Notes

  • Chill graham cracker crust completely before adding cheesecake filling to prevent soggy texture and ensure crisp base.
  • Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs for smoother, lump-free batter that blends seamlessly and creates silky consistency.
  • Dust blueberries lightly with flour before folding into batter to prevent sinking and distribute evenly throughout cheesecake bars.
  • Allow bars to cool slowly at room temperature before refrigerating to prevent cracking and maintain creamy, velvety texture.
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 9
  • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Sugar: 18 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 22 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 55 mg
John Conley

John Conley

Founder & Culinary Storyteller

Expertise

Recipe Development, Culinary Writing, Home Cooking Techniques, Seasonal Ingredient Utilization​

Education

Lane Community College, Eugene, OR
​Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focused on foundational cooking techniques, kitchen safety, and menu planning.

​Gotham Writers Workshop, New York, NY
Course in Food Writing
Explored the art of crafting engaging culinary narratives and recipe development.


John grew up where food meant connection: big bowls, warm kitchens, and meals that told a story. After earning his Certificate in Culinary Arts from Lane Community College and diving deep into food writing at Gotham Writers Workshop, he found his calling: turning everyday recipes into something worth savoring.
At The Liffey, John’s focus is all about crafting dishes that feel easy, honest, and full of heart.

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