Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both easy to make and irresistibly delicious, these Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars are perfect for you. With a buttery, crumbly base, a creamy cheesecake layer, and a topping of fresh blueberries, these bars bring together a delightful combination of textures and flavors. Ideal for picnics, potlucks, or a sweet treat at home, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Let’s dive into how to make these delightful bars step-by-step!

Ingredients Breakdown

To create these delicious Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars, you’ll need a mix of pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of everything you’ll need:

• 3/4 cup butter, softened – Adds a rich, buttery flavor to the base and crumble topping.
• 2/3 cup sugar – Provides sweetness and helps achieve a soft, tender crumb.
• 2/3 cup brown sugar – Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor to the crust.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda – Ensures the crust bakes up light and slightly crisp.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• 1 1/3 cups flour – The base structure for the bars, creating a sturdy crust.
• 1 1/3 cups quick oats (uncooked) – Adds texture and a subtle nuttiness to the base and topping.
• 8 ounces cream cheese – The star of the creamy filling, providing a rich, tangy flavor.
• 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk – Adds sweetness and a smooth texture to the filling.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla – Enhances the flavor of the cream cheese filling.
• 1 egg yolk – Adds richness and helps thicken the filling.
• 1 cup blueberries (or raspberries) – Brings a burst of fruity freshness and color to the bars.

Essential Equipment Needed

To make these Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars, you will need the following kitchen equipment:

• 9×13-inch baking pan – The perfect size to ensure even baking.
• Parchment paper or cooking spray – For easy removal of the bars after baking.
• Mixing bowls – One for the crust and one for the filling.
• Whisk – To mix the filling ingredients smoothly.
• Spatula – For spreading the layers evenly in the pan.

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the Base Layer

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch pan by lining it with parchment paper or coating it with cooking spray for easy removal.
2. Make the Crust: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, sugar, and brown sugar until creamy. Gradually add the baking soda, salt, flour, and quick oats, mixing until a crumbly dough forms.
3. Bake the Base: Press half of the dough mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to create the base layer. Bake for 13 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden.

2. Making the Cream Cheese Filling

1. Mix the Filling: While the crust is baking, prepare the cream cheese filling. In a separate bowl, whisk the cream cheese until smooth. Slowly pour in the sweetened condensed milk, mixing well to avoid any lumps. Stir in the vanilla extract and egg yolk until the mixture is creamy and well-combined.

3. Assembling the Layers and Baking

1. Pour the Filling: Once the base has finished baking, remove it from the oven. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the baked crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
2. Add the Berries: Sprinkle the blueberries (or raspberries) evenly over the cream cheese layer.
3. Top with Crumble: Scatter the remaining oat mixture over the berries, pressing it down gently with your fingers.
4. Final Bake: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the top is set.

4. Cooling and Cutting

1. Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting. This will ensure clean slices and prevent the filling from oozing out.
2. Refrigerate: For best results, chill the bars in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.

Tips for Perfect Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother filling.
• Avoid Overmixing: Mix the ingredients just until combined to prevent a dense, tough crust.
• Watch the Baking Time: Bake the crust until it’s just set and the edges are slightly golden. Overbaking can lead to a hard crust.

Variations and Swaps

• Switch Up the Berries: Try using raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries for a different flavor profile.
• Add a Citrus Twist: A teaspoon of lemon or lime zest in the cream cheese mixture can add a refreshing tang.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix and ensure the oats are certified gluten-free.

Serving and Presentation Suggestions

• Cut into Even Squares: Use a sharp knife to cut the bars into even squares for a neat presentation.
• Garnish with Fresh Berries: Add a few fresh blueberries or a dusting of powdered sugar on top for a pop of color and added elegance.
• Serve Chilled or at Room Temperature: These bars are delicious served chilled from the refrigerator or at room temperature, depending on your preference.

How to Store Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars

• Refrigeration: Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They taste best when chilled.
• Freezing: These bars freeze well! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQ Section

Can I use frozen blueberries for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries, but do not thaw them before adding to the bars. This prevents excess moisture from affecting the texture.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. They often taste even better after chilling overnight.

What other toppings can I add?
Feel free to add a drizzle of white chocolate, a sprinkle of chopped nuts, or even a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Conclusion

These Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars are the perfect blend of creamy, fruity, and crumbly goodness. Whether you’re enjoying them as a mid-day snack or a special dessert, they are sure to impress. Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below! If you loved this recipe, be sure to subscribe to our blog for more delicious ideas!

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