Blueberry Cheesecake Bars

🫐 Blueberry Cheesecake Bars

Description

Blueberry Cheesecake Bars are a rich, creamy dessert with a buttery crust, smooth cheesecake filling, and a vibrant blueberry topping. They combine the elegance of classic cheesecake with the convenience of handheld bars, making them perfect for parties, potlucks, or make-ahead desserts.

⏱ Prep & Cook Time

  • Prep Time: 25 minutes

  • Bake Time: 45–50 minutes

  • Chill Time: 3–4 hours (or overnight)

  • Total Time: ~4½ hours

🍽 Servings

  • Makes: 12 bars (standard size)

🧾 Ingredients

Crust

  • 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs

  • ¼ cup granulated sugar

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling

  • 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened

  • ½ cup granulated sugar

  • 2 large eggs, room temperature

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • ½ cup sour cream

Blueberry Topping

  • 1½ cups fresh or frozen blueberries

  • ⅓ cup granulated sugar

  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

  • 1 tbsp cornstarch

  • 2 tbsp water

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).

  2. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

  3. Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.

  4. Press firmly into the bottom of the pan.

  5. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.

2. Make the Cheesecake Filling

  1. Beat cream cheese until smooth and creamy.

  2. Add sugar and mix until combined.

  3. Beat in eggs one at a time.

  4. Mix in vanilla and sour cream.

  5. Pour filling evenly over the crust.

3. Prepare the Blueberry Topping

  1. In a saucepan, combine blueberries, sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, and water.

  2. Cook over medium heat, stirring gently, until thickened (5–7 minutes).

  3. Cool slightly, then spoon over the cheesecake filling.

4. Bake

  • Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the center is just set.

  • Turn off oven and let the bars sit inside with the door slightly open for 10 minutes.

  • Cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours before slicing.

📝 Notes

  • Cheesecake will firm up more as it chills.

  • The center should jiggle slightly when done—this prevents cracking.

  • Frozen blueberries work perfectly; no need to thaw.

💡 Tips for Best Results

  • Use room-temperature ingredients for a smoother filling.

  • Line the pan with parchment for easy removal.

  • Chill overnight for the cleanest cuts.

  • Wipe your knife clean between slices.

🧮 Nutritional Information (Per Bar – Approximate)

  • Calories: 310 kcal

  • Carbohydrates: 30 g

  • Protein: 5 g

  • Fat: 20 g

  • Saturated Fat: 12 g

  • Sugar: 22 g

  • Fiber: 1 g

  • Sodium: 180 mg

🌿 Benefits

  • Blueberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C.

  • Calcium & protein from cream cheese support bone health.

  • Portion-controlled bars help with mindful indulgence.

  • Make-ahead friendly for stress-free entertaining.

❓ Q & A

Q: Can I use a different crust?
A: Yes! Digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or Oreo crumbs work well.

Q: How long do these bars last?
A: Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container.

Q: Can I freeze Blueberry Cheesecake Bars?
A: Absolutely. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.

Q: Why did my cheesecake crack?
A: Overbaking or sudden temperature changes can cause cracks. Slight jiggle is key.

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