The Perfect Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars Recipe for Sweet Cravings
Sweet summer memories dance on your palate with these irresistible blueberry cream cheese bars that blend creamy richness and fruity brightness.
Bursting with juicy blueberries nestled in a smooth cream cheese filling, this dessert promises pure indulgence.
The buttery graham cracker crust provides a delightful crunch that complements the silky texture.
Each bite delivers a perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors that melt effortlessly in your mouth.
Perfectly portioned and beautifully marbled with deep purple swirls, these bars make any gathering instantly special.
Fresh blueberries elevate this simple yet elegant treat beyond ordinary desserts.
Blueberry Cream Cheese Bar Ingredient Checklist
Crust Ingredients:Cream Cheese Filling Ingredients:Blueberry Topping and Crumb Topping Ingredients:Instructions for Luscious Blueberry Bars
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Station
Warm up your oven to a cozy 350°F.
Grab a 9×9-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, creating a smooth surface for your delightful dessert.
Step 2: Create the Crumbly Crust
Gather your graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
Mix these ingredients until they form a perfect sandy texture.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
Pop it in the oven for 8-10 minutes, then set aside to cool and create a solid foundation for your bars.
Step 3: Whip Up the Creamy Filling
In a mixing bowl, blend softened cream cheese and sugar until silky smooth.
Introduce eggs one by one, mixing gently after each addition.
Stir in vanilla and sour cream, creating a luxurious, velvety mixture.
Pour this dreamy filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
Step 4: Craft the Blueberry Swirl
In a saucepan, combine:Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Watch as the sauce transforms and thickens in about 5 minutes.
Let it cool slightly, then spread this vibrant blueberry layer across the cream cheese base.
Step 5: Add the Optional Crunchy Topping
For an extra layer of texture, mix together:Blend until the mixture becomes delightfully crumbly.
Sprinkle this golden topping over the blueberry layer, adding a delicious crunch.
Step 6: Bake and Chill
Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes.
The cream cheese layer should look set and slightly firm.
Remove and let the bars cool completely at room temperature.
For the ultimate texture and flavor, refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing into perfect squares.
Tips for Tangy, Creamy Blueberry Bars
Flavor Ideas for Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars
Serving Blueberry Bars at Dessert Time
Storing Blueberry Bars for Future Treats
FAQs
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Just thaw and drain them before cooking to prevent excess moisture in the topping.
The filling should look firm and slightly puffy, with minimal jiggling when you gently shake the pan. It will continue to set as it cools.
You can use crushed vanilla wafers, digestive biscuits, or shortbread cookies as alternatives to graham crackers for the crust base.
Replace graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs or almond flour, and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars – Berry Goodness in Every Bite
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Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 1x
Description
Sweet, crumbly blueberry cream cheese bars deliver a heavenly dessert experience that dances between tangy and rich. Buttery graham cracker crust cradles smooth cream cheese filling swirled with fresh blueberry compote, promising pure indulgence you’ll savor with every delightful bite.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh blueberries
- 16 ounces (454 grams) cream cheese, softened
- 4 large eggs
Crust Ingredients:
- 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Binding and Flavor Ingredients:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare the oven at 350°F and arrange a parchment paper liner in a 9×9-inch baking pan for easy removal.
- Craft a robust graham cracker foundation by blending crumbs with sugar and melted butter, then firmly press into the pan base. Toast the crust for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden, then allow to cool.
- Whip cream cheese and sugar together until silky smooth, incorporating eggs individually to maintain a velvety texture. Fold in vanilla and sour cream until fully integrated.
- Gently cascade the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust, ensuring an even distribution.
- Create a vibrant blueberry compote by simmering berries with sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch in a saucepan. Cook for approximately 5 minutes until the mixture thickens and develops a glossy appearance.
- Allow the blueberry sauce to cool slightly, then delicately spread across the cream cheese layer for a burst of fruity color.
- Optional: Develop a rustic crumble topping by combining flour, brown sugar, oats, and chilled butter, working the mixture until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
- Scatter the crumble over the blueberry layer for added texture and visual appeal.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, monitoring until the cream cheese filling sets and develops a subtle golden hue.
- Remove from oven and allow to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours to achieve optimal slicing and serving consistency.
Notes
- Adjust sugar levels by swapping with honey or maple syrup for a more natural sweetness profile that complements the tangy cream cheese.
- Ensure cream cheese is room temperature to prevent lumps and achieve a silky smooth filling that spreads effortlessly.
- Replace graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed gluten-free cookies for a celiac-friendly version that maintains the delicious crumbly texture.
- Try mixed berries like raspberries or blackberries to create vibrant color variations and add complex fruity undertones to the classic blueberry topping.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 121
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 35 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
Michael Reyes
Founder & Lead Recipe Developer
Expertise
Education
Santa Fe Community College
Michael’s love for cooking runs deep, rooted in the bold, colorful flavors of his New Mexico upbringing.
After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from Santa Fe Community College, he spent years sharpening his skills in kitchens that celebrated traditional Southwestern and Latin American dishes.
He believes cooking should feel approachable and fun, never complicated. When he’s not stirring up new recipe ideas, Michael’s out hiking scenic trails, chatting with farmers at local markets, or chasing the perfect sunset shot for inspiration.