Craving something sweet, tangy, and utterly irresistible? These blueberry cream cheese bars are your ticket to dessert heaven, combining the lush flavors of blueberries with the creamy richness of cream cheese on a buttery crust.
Why This Recipe Works
- The contrast between the tangy cream cheese layer and the sweet blueberry topping creates a perfect balance of flavors.
- A buttery shortbread crust adds a delightful crunch that complements the creamy and fruity layers.
- Simple ingredients come together to create a dessert that looks as good as it tastes, making it a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup blueberry jam
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Equipment Needed
- 8×8 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. This ensures your bars come out perfectly without sticking to the pan.
Make the Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups flour and 1/2 cup sugar. Add 1/2 cup cold, cubed butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Bake for 15 minutes until lightly golden.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer
While the crust bakes, beat 8 oz softened cream cheese with 1/4 cup sugar until smooth. Add 1 egg and 1 tsp vanilla extract, beating until well combined. Spread over the warm crust once it’s out of the oven.
Add the Blueberry Topping
Mix 1 cup blueberry jam with 1 tbsp lemon juice to brighten the flavor. Dollop over the cream cheese layer and swirl gently with a knife for a marbled effect.
Bake to Perfection
Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 25 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is slightly wobbly. Cool completely before slicing into bars.
Tips and Tricks
For the best results, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting. This helps them blend more smoothly. If you’re using frozen blueberries for the topping, thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture. For a cleaner cut, chill the bars for an hour before slicing. Experiment with different jams for the topping to customize the flavor to your liking.
Recipe Variations
- Swap blueberry jam for raspberry or strawberry for a different berry flavor.
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the crust for a warm spice note.
- Top with fresh berries before serving for an extra pop of color and freshness.
- Use a gluten-free flour blend for the crust to make it gluten-free.
- Add a layer of lemon curd under the blueberry topping for a tangy twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh blueberries instead of jam?
Yes, you can use fresh blueberries. Cook them down with a little sugar and lemon juice to create a compote-like consistency before using as the topping.
How do I store these bars?
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars actually taste better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. Just keep them refrigerated until ready to serve.
Summary
These blueberry cream cheese bars are a delightful mix of sweet, tangy, and creamy, all on a buttery crust. Perfect for any occasion, they’re sure to impress with their beautiful layers and irresistible flavor.