Delightful Blueberry Cheesecake Bars

A Perfect Blend of Creamy, Fruity, and Crumbly

Blueberry season is here, and what better way to celebrate than with these Delightful Blueberry Cheesecake Bars? Combining a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy cheesecake center, and a juicy blueberry layer topped with a golden crumble, these bars are the ultimate summer dessert.

I first made this recipe for a backyard BBQ, and it quickly became the most requested dessert among friends and family. These bars not only look stunning with their vibrant layers but also bring together the perfect balance of tart, sweet, and buttery flavors. Whether you’re entertaining or just treating yourself, this dessert will never disappoint.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Visually Stunning: The bright purple blueberry layer and golden crumble make these bars stand out.
• Perfect Texture: From the creamy cheesecake to the juicy blueberries and buttery crust, every bite is delightful.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe approachable for all skill levels.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  For the Cheesecake Layer:
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
  For the Blueberry Layer:
• 2 cups fresh blueberries
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
  For the Crumble Topping:
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix well, then press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared dish to form a compact crust.
2. Make the Cheesecake Layer
   In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust and spread it evenly.
3. Add the Blueberry Layer
   In another bowl, mix fresh blueberries with sugar and lemon juice. Spoon the blueberry mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer.
4. Prepare the Crumble Topping
   In a separate bowl, combine flour and brown sugar. Cut in the cold butter using a fork or pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle the crumble topping over the blueberry layer.
5. Bake and Cool
   Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the crumble topping is golden brown and the cheesecake is set. Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the dish.
6. Chill and Serve
   Once cooled, refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours to firm up. Lift them out using the parchment paper, cut into squares, and serve.

Pro Tips for Success

• Room-Temperature Cream Cheese: Ensures a smooth, lump-free cheesecake layer.
• Fresh or Frozen Blueberries: Both work, but if using frozen, don’t thaw them first.
• Even Crumble: Use your hands to sprinkle the topping evenly for a consistent texture.

Why These Bars Are a Summer Favorite

These Blueberry Cheesecake Bars are the perfect combination of creamy, fruity, and buttery. Whether served as a picnic treat or an elegant dessert for a dinner party, they’re guaranteed to impress. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoy them as they are—delicious and satisfying.