Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars
A delightful treat for any occasion, Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars combine the tangy zest of lemon with sweet blueberries in a creamy cheesecake filling. These bars are perfect for summer picnics, holiday gatherings, or a simple family dessert. The combination of flavors and textures makes them an irresistible choice that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe requires straightforward steps and simple ingredients, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
- Bursting with Flavor: The vibrant taste of fresh blueberries paired with zesty lemon creates a refreshing dessert that stands out.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a backyard barbecue, birthday party, or a cozy family dinner, these bars fit right in.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve them chilled or at room temperature; they are delicious either way!
- Great for Meal Prep: You can make these bars ahead of time and store them in the fridge for quick snacks or desserts throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
To create your delicious Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 8″ x 8″ baking pan (or 9 x 9)
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Foil
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking Pan: A sturdy baking pan ensures even cooking and helps in easy removal with the foil overhang.
- Electric Mixer: Using an electric mixer saves time and ensures your cream cheese is perfectly smooth for the filling.
- Rubber Spatula: This tool is great for scraping down the sides of bowls and folding ingredients without losing air.
Ingredients
A sweet and creamy lemon cheesecake filling bursting with blueberries sits atop a lemon shortbread crust with lemon shortbread crumbles on top.
For the Crust
- 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter (melted)
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- the zest of one lemon
- 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
For the Filling
- 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- zest of one lemon
- 2 large eggs
- 5 ounces (150g) yogurt or sour cream
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (60g) all-purpose flour
- 3 cups (300g) blueberries (fresh or frozen; if using frozen, do not thaw)
How to Make Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Position a rack in the center position of the oven. Preheat the oven to 350ºF (177ºC).
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan
- Line an 8″ x 8″ (or 9 x 9) baking pan with foil. Leave an overhang on the sides for easy removal later. Set aside.
Step 3: Make the Crust
- In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, sugar, vanilla extract, salt, lemon zest, and flour.
- Mix until crumbly but well combined.
- Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
- In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Gradually add sugar while continuing to mix.
- Mix in lemon zest, eggs one at a time, yogurt or sour cream, fresh lemon juice, and salt until fully blended.
- Gently fold in flour until just incorporated.
Step 5: Add Blueberries and Bake
- Pour the filling over the crust evenly.
- Sprinkle blueberries on top of the filling without pressing them down.
- Bake in preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until set in the center.
Let your Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars cool completely before slicing into squares. Enjoy this tangy treat!
How to Serve Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars
Serve your Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars chilled or at room temperature for a refreshing treat. They are perfect for gatherings, picnics, and special occasions.
Family Gatherings
- With Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs well with the tartness of the blueberries.
- Whipped Cream: Top with freshly whipped cream for added richness and decoration.
Outdoor Picnics
- In Individual Servings: Cut into smaller squares and pack in cupcake liners for easy transport.
- With Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries for a festive touch.
Special Occasions
- At Birthday Parties: These bars make a colorful addition to any birthday dessert table.
- With Lemonade: Pair with homemade lemonade for a zesty summer treat.
How to Perfect Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars
To achieve the best results with your Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars, consider these helpful tips.
- Chill Before Serving: Allow the bars to cool completely in the fridge for a few hours before slicing. This helps them set properly.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh blueberries and high-quality lemons enhance flavor. If using frozen berries, do not thaw them to avoid excess moisture.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until combined to keep your filling light and fluffy.
- Check for Doneness: The center should be set but slightly jiggly. It will firm up as it cools.
- Garnish Thoughtfully: A sprinkle of lemon zest on top adds a beautiful finish and extra flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars
Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars can be complemented by various side dishes that balance their sweetness. Here are some excellent pairings.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and color to your dessert spread.
- Lemon Sorbet: The tartness of lemon sorbet enhances the flavors of the pie bars while providing a refreshing contrast.
- Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like Brie or goat cheese, which create a nice balance with the sweet bars.
- Minted Yogurt Dip: A yogurt dip flavored with mint provides a creamy texture that works well alongside the lemony bars.
- Nutty Granola: Serve granola on the side to add crunch and texture, making it an excellent snack option.
- Herb-Infused Iced Tea: Brewed iced tea infused with herbs like mint or basil complements the flavors beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars, it’s easy to make a few common missteps. Here’s how to ensure your dessert turns out perfectly.
- Using cold ingredients: Always use room temperature cream cheese and eggs. This helps create a smooth filling without lumps.
- Skipping the zest: The zest of the lemon adds essential flavor. Don’t skip this step; it elevates your pie bars significantly.
- Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough bars instead of creamy ones.
- Not using enough blueberries: More blueberries mean more flavor! Fill your bars generously for the best results.
- Ignoring baking time: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your bars and check for doneness to avoid undercooking or overbaking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars
- Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars
- Oven: Preheat to 350ºF (177ºC) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat one bar at a time for 20-30 seconds on high.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars?
Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars are a delightful dessert featuring a creamy lemon cheesecake filling topped with fresh blueberries and a crumbly shortbread crust.
Can I use frozen blueberries for Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars?
Yes! You can use frozen blueberries without thawing them. Just add them directly into the filling mixture for great flavor.
How do I make gluten-free Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars?
Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Can I customize the recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts or swap blueberries for other fruits like raspberries or strawberries for different flavors.
Final Thoughts
Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars offer a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors along with creamy texture that everyone will love. They are versatile and can be customized to suit your preferences, making them an ideal treat for any occasion. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy these delightful bars!
Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars are a delightful fusion of sweet blueberries and zesty lemon, nestled in a creamy cheesecake filling atop a buttery shortbread crust. This refreshing dessert is perfect for summer picnics, birthday parties, or cozy family dinners. With their vibrant flavors and easy preparation, these bars are sure to impress at any gathering. Simply slice into squares and enjoy either chilled or at room temperature for a burst of fruity goodness that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter (melted)
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- the zest of one lemon
- 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
- 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- zest of one lemon
- 2 large eggs
- 5 ounces (150g) yogurt or sour cream
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (60g) all-purpose flour
- 3 cups (300g) blueberries (fresh or frozen; if using frozen, do not thaw)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) and prepare an 8" x 8" baking pan lined with foil.
- For the crust, mix melted butter, sugar, vanilla extract, salt, lemon zest, and flour until crumbly. Press into the bottom of the pan.
- For the filling, beat softened cream cheese until smooth; add sugar gradually. Mix in lemon zest, eggs one at a time, yogurt or sour cream, fresh lemon juice, salt, and flour until combined.
- Pour the filling over the crust and sprinkle blueberries on top without pressing down. Bake for about 60 minutes until set in the center.
- Allow to cool completely before slicing into squares.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (60g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
