Ingredients
Scale
- 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.
Instructions
1. Preparing the Base Layer
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
- 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
- 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.
- Add the Berries: Sprinkle the blueberries (or raspberries) evenly over the cream cheese layer.
- Top with Crumble: Scatter the remaining oat mixture over the berries, pressing it down gently with your fingers.
- 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
- 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.
- Refrigerate: For best results, chill the bars in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
Notes
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.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert