Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars

Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars are a delightful dessert that brings together the tartness of blueberries and the creamy richness of cream cheese in a fun, easy-to-eat bar format. These bars are perfect for many occasions, whether you’re hosting a gathering, looking for a sweet treat after dinner, or simply wanting something special for your afternoon coffee break. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a crumbly topping, each bite is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. With fresh or frozen blueberries at the core, this recipe is not only delicious but also a fantastic way to enjoy seasonal fruits year-round. Let’s dive into the details and learn how to make these scrumptious bars!

Ingredients for Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars

List of ingredients with measurements

• Cooking spray
• 15 graham crackers
• 1 large egg (for crust)
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted for crust)
• 2 teaspoons granulated sugar (for crust)
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt (for crust)
• 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese (room temperature)
• 1 large egg (for filling, room temperature)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for filling)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
• 1/4 cup blueberry jam
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (for topping)
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted for topping)
• 3 tablespoons dark brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons finely grated lemon zest
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt (for topping)

Optional ingredient substitutions

You can substitute regular graham crackers with gluten-free graham crackers if you need a gluten-free version. If you’re short on blueberries, raspberries or chopped strawberries could serve as a delicious alternative. To make these bars a little healthier, consider using low-fat cream cheese or a sugar substitute in the filling.

How to Make Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars

Step 1: Prepare the crust

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). Lightly spray a 9×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal later. In a food processor, breakdown the graham crackers into fine crumbs, then add the egg white, melted butter, granulated sugar, and kosher salt. Process the mixture until it resembles wet sand. Once done, pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and firmly press it down to create an even crust. Make sure it covers the entire bottom of the pan.

Step 2: Create the cream cheese filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer until it becomes fluffy and smooth. Gradually add the cup of granulated sugar and one egg into the bowl, mixing well after each addition. Once combined, pour in the vanilla extract and mix until just blended. The filling should be creamy and smooth, ready to spread over the crust.

Step 3: Prepare the blueberry filling

Next, prepare your blueberries. If you’re using fresh blueberries, rinse them thoroughly and pat them dry. If using frozen, thaw them and drain any excess moisture. In a large bowl, mash the blueberries slightly with a fork, leaving some whole for texture. Fold in the blueberry jam until the berries are well coated. This mixture will add a fresh burst of flavor over your cream cheese layer.

Step 4: Make the topping and bake

In another mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, dark brown sugar, melted butter, lemon zest, and kosher salt until the mixture becomes crumbly. Spread the cream cheese filling over the pre-baked crust evenly, then dollop the blueberry mixture over the cream cheese. Finally, sprinkle the crumbly topping evenly across the top. Bake the entire dish for about 30 minutes, or until the edges are firm and the topping is golden brown. Once done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for about 30 minutes. Then, refrigerate until it is cold and firm, making it easier to slice into bars.

How to Serve Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars

Best ways to serve Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars

Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars can be served chilled or at room temperature. To serve, cut them into even squares or rectangles and place them on a dessert platter. These bars make a great addition to any dessert table or a lovely treat for afternoon tea.

Serving suggestions or pairings

Pair these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgence. A drizzle of lemon or blueberry sauce over the top can also enhance the presentation and flavor, especially if you’re serving them at a special event or gathering.

How to Store Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars

Proper storage methods

To keep your Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should last for up to a week, although they are best enjoyed within the first few days for optimal freshness.

Tips for reheating or freezing

If you’ve made a big batch and want to freeze some for later, cut the bars into individual pieces and wrap each one in plastic wrap. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag before storing them in the freezer. To enjoy later, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight or warm them slightly in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.

Tips to Make Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars

Common mistakes to avoid

One common mistake is overmixing the cream cheese filling, which can lead to cracks in the surface when baking. Be sure to mix it until just blended. Also, don’t skip the step of cooling before cutting; letting the bars chill will ensure cleaner cuts and a better texture.

Helpful tips for better results

For best results, use room temperature ingredients, especially the cream cheese and egg. This helps the mixture blend more smoothly, resulting in a creamy filling. If you’re using fresh blueberries, make sure to pick ripe ones for the best flavor. They shouldn’t be mushy; a firm texture will enhance the overall quality of your bars.

Variation of Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars

Suggested variations or twists on the recipe

You can easily adapt this recipe by adding a streusel topping of oats and nuts for a crunchy texture or incorporate lemon or almond extracts for varied flavor profiles. Going tropical? Swap out blueberries for chopped mangoes or pineapple chunks to make a fruity variation.

Adjustments for dietary preferences

For those who follow vegan or dairy-free diets, you could substitute the cream cheese with a non-dairy cream cheese alternative. Additionally, for a gluten-free version, ensure all your ingredients, including graham crackers, are certified gluten-free.

FAQs

What can I do if the dish isn’t turning out right?

If you encounter issues like cracks in the cream cheese layer or a soggy crust, ensure that you’re mixing your ingredients just right—both overmixing and undermixing can cause problems. Also, pay attention to your baking time; if it’s undercooked, it might not set properly.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars can be made a day ahead of time. Just bake and chill them, then slice and serve when you’re ready. In fact, letting them rest in the fridge overnight can enhance the flavors.

What can I substitute for ingredients?

If you’re short on specific ingredients, you can substitute graham crackers with another type of cracker or cookie for the crust. For the blueberries, other berries or fruit preserves can work nicely. Instead of cream cheese, consider using a nut or soy cream cheese for a dairy-free option, or a thin layer of yogurt for a lighter alternative.

Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars are not only delicious but also versatile and forgiving. You can easily customize them to fit your taste or dietary restrictions. With the proper technique and ingredients, you can create a treat that is sure to satisfy and impress your family and friends!

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