Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars
A delicious treat for any occasion, Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars combine the tangy zest of lemon with the sweetness of blueberries. These bars offer a creamy cheesecake filling nestled on a buttery lemon shortbread crust, topped with a crumble that adds both texture and flavor. Perfect for gatherings, picnics, or simply a sweet indulgence at home, these pie bars are sure to impress family and friends alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe simplifies the classic pie experience into manageable bar form, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of lemon and blueberries creates a refreshing taste that is both sweet and tart.
- Versatile Dessert: Whether served at a summer barbecue or as a delightful after-dinner treat, these bars fit into any event.
- Make Ahead: These bars can be prepared in advance and stored for later enjoyment without losing their delightful flavor.
- Great for Sharing: Cut them into squares for easy serving at parties or potlucks, ensuring everyone gets a taste.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into making your Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 8″ x 8″ (or 9 x 9) baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking Pan: A good-quality pan ensures even cooking and helps achieve the perfect crust.
- Electric Mixer: Makes blending your cheesecake filling quick and easy, saving time and effort.
- Rubber Spatula: Ideal for scraping down the sides of bowls to incorporate every bit of delicious batter.
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
Begin by positioning a rack in the center position of the oven. Preheat your oven to 350ºF (177ºC).
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan
Line an 8″ x 8″ (or 9 x 9) baking pan with foil. Ensure there is an overhang on the sides for easy removal later. Set aside.
Continue following the recipe instructions to create this delightful dessert!
How to Serve Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars
Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a picnic, or just a cozy night at home. Their bright flavors and creamy texture make them a delightful treat.
Pair with Fresh Berries
- Serve additional fresh blueberries on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
- Raspberries or strawberries can also complement the tartness of the lemon filling.
Add Whipped Cream
- A dollop of whipped cream adds a light and airy texture that balances the richness.
- You can sweeten it with a little powdered sugar and vanilla extract for added flavor.
Enjoy with Ice Cream
- Vanilla ice cream is a classic pairing that contrasts beautifully with the tangy lemon bars.
- Try lemon sorbet for a refreshing twist on this dessert.
Drizzle with Lemon Glaze
- A simple glaze made of powdered sugar and lemon juice can elevate your bars.
- Drizzle it over the top before serving for an extra zing.
Serve Chilled
- Refrigerate the bars before serving to enhance their refreshing taste.
- Cold blueberry lemon pie bars are especially satisfying on warm days.
Garnish with Mint
- Fresh mint leaves add color and a hint of freshness.
- Place a few leaves on top for an elegant touch when serving.
How to Perfect Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars
Creating perfectly delicious Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars can be easy with some helpful tips. Here are some ways to ensure your dessert turns out amazing every time.
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Use room temperature ingredients: Starting with cream cheese and eggs at room temperature helps achieve a smooth filling without lumps.
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Don’t overmix: Gently fold in the blueberries to keep them whole and prevent discoloration in the batter.
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Check for doneness: The edges should be set, but the center might still have a slight jiggle when you take them out of the oven.
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Cool completely: Allowing the bars to cool fully before slicing helps maintain clean edges and prevents them from falling apart.
Best Side Dishes for Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars
Pairing side dishes with your Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options:
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits brings color and freshness to your dessert table.
- Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese to balance the sweetness of the bars.
- Lemonade: A refreshing glass of lemonade complements the tart flavors beautifully.
- Tea: Herbal or green tea can provide a soothing contrast to the rich pie bars.
- Granola: Serve some crunchy granola on top for added texture and flavor.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and berries for an appealing side dish that matches well with your dessert.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can make your Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars even more delicious. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using cold cream cheese: Cold cream cheese can create lumps in your filling. Always soften it to room temperature for a smooth texture.
- Skipping the lemon zest: The zest adds essential flavor to your bars. Don’t skip it—use fresh zest for the best result.
- Overbaking the bars: Overbaking can lead to a dry texture. Keep an eye on them and remove them from the oven as soon as they are set.
- Not using fresh blueberries: While frozen blueberries are convenient, fresh ones provide better flavor and texture. If using frozen, don’t thaw them.
- Ignoring the cooling time: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting. This helps maintain their structure and makes slicing easier.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars
- Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap or foil.
- Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Place bars in an oven-safe dish and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat individual bars on medium power for about 20-30 seconds until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid. Heat for about 5 minutes until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to serve Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars?
Serve these delightful bars chilled or at room temperature, topped with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.
Can I use other fruits instead of blueberries?
Absolutely! You can substitute other berries like raspberries or strawberries, but adjust the sweetness as needed based on the fruit’s tartness.
How do I know when my Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars are done?
The bars are done when they appear set around the edges but slightly jiggly in the center. They will firm up as they cool.
Are Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars gluten-free?
To make gluten-free bars, you can use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Can I make these pie bars ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare them a day early and store them covered in the refrigerator until serving.
Final Thoughts
Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars offer a delightful combination of sweet and tart flavors that everyone will love. They’re perfect for gatherings, picnics, or simply enjoying at home. Feel free to customize your recipe by adding nuts or experimenting with different fruits. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!
Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
Description
Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars are a delightful dessert that perfectly balances the tangy zest of lemon with the sweet burst of blueberries. These bars feature a creamy cheesecake filling layered on a buttery lemon shortbread crust, topped with a crunchy crumble that adds texture and flavor. Ideal for any occasion—from summer picnics to cozy nights at home—these bars are sure to impress your family and friends.
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 your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line an 8" x 8" baking pan with foil, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- For the crust, mix melted butter, sugar, vanilla, salt, lemon zest, and flour until combined. Press the mixture into the prepared pan.
- In a separate bowl, blend softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, lemon zest, eggs, yogurt or sour cream, lemon juice, salt, and flour until smooth. Gently fold in fresh blueberries.
- Pour the filling over the crust and bake for 30-35 minutes until edges are set but center is slightly jiggle.
- Allow bars to cool completely before slicing into squares.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (80g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
